Tennessee Driver Handbook
Read the official manual from TN DOS directly. Download the PDF for offline study or read it online.
Tennessee Driver Handbook
Official Resource
This handbook is sourced directly from TN DOS.
Testing at a Glance for Tennessee
Once you've read the handbook, here's what to expect at the TN DOS knowledge test.
30
70%
60 min
Documents You'll Need When You Take the Tennessee Test
One proof of U.S. citizenship or legal presence, one proof of SSN, and two proofs of Tennessee residency.
Tennessee-Specific Rules Covered in This Handbook
Rules unique to Tennessee that TN DOS weights heavily in the knowledge test — you'll see these in the handbook chapters.
- gavel Hands-Free Law (T.C.A. 55-8-199): illegal to hold a cell phone or device while driving
- gavel Slow Poke Law: prohibits left-lane driving on multilane highways except for passing ($50 fine)
- gavel Move Over Law (T.C.A. 55-8-132): must move over or slow for emergency, tow, maintenance, solid waste, utility vehicles
- gavel GDL: age 15 must pass knowledge test and hold learner permit 6 months before intermediate license
- gavel At-home proctored knowledge test available for ages 15-17 via Tennessee Proctor ID App
After You Pass: Tennessee License Renewal
8 years
$28
Courtesy renewal notices are mailed approximately 8-10 weeks before the credential expires
More Tennessee Driving Resources
Tennessee Handbook FAQ
Is this the official Tennessee driver handbook?
Yes. The handbook mirrored above is the same document TN DOS publishes on its official website — we host it here for faster mobile loading and cleaner reading.
What documents does TN DOS require when I show up for the test?
One proof of U.S. citizenship or legal presence, one proof of SSN, and two proofs of Tennessee residency.
Are official Tennessee handbook translations available?
TN DOS publishes select translations (usually Spanish, sometimes others) on its site. Third-party translations exist online but should be cross-checked against the English source — legal wording matters on the exam.
Is the Tennessee driver handbook free to download?
Yes. TN DOS publishes it free as a PDF. If a website is charging to "download" the handbook, it's a scam — the state's official version is always free.
How current is this Tennessee handbook version?
TN DOS updates the handbook when state law changes — usually once per year, sometimes more when major legislation passes. Our copy is refreshed against the state site as soon as a new edition drops.
Is there an audio version of the Tennessee handbook?
TN DOS does not publish an official audio edition. You can use a device text-to-speech reader on the PDF/HTML — most work well, though sign images obviously don't get spoken.
Can I get a printed copy of the Tennessee handbook?
Some TN DOS field offices distribute free printed copies while supplies last — availability varies by location. If none are stocked, you can print the PDF at any office-supply or public library.
Where do I actually take the Tennessee test after reading the handbook?
At any TN DOS location. Use our /dmv-near-me/tn finder for the nearest office with address, hours, and phone.