If you’re looking to complete any driving- or traffic-related services or chores, chances are the Tennessee Driver Services Division is where you need to go. Whether you’re looking to renew your driver’s license, pass your written permit exam, or pay for a newly-received traffic violation, the DSD is there to address all of your issues. It’s better to do your research ahead of time, however – if you go into a DSD office unprepared, you may end up spending an entire, fruitless day at an office location waiting for the appropriate assistance. This guide is a great first step in trying to decipher the many mysteries of the Tennessee DSD.
Find Your Nearest Tennessee DSD Office
Finding your local Tennessee DSD branch can be challenging – depending on what you need, you may have to go to a different type of office. For any and all services related to driving, such as driver’s licenses, you’ll want to find a Self-Service Kiosk or a Driver Services Center. For services related to your vehicle, such as registration and titling, you’ll want to head to a Tennessee County Clerk’s Office. While this may seem confusing, it’s ultimately a thoughtful way to cut down on wait times and ensure everyone gets served in a timely manner.
Getting an Appointment at the Tennessee DSD
The best way to save time at a DSD office is to schedule an appointment. Unfortunately, in Tennessee one can only schedule an appointment for road tests. However, the state has come up with a novel way to remedy long lines and terrible wait times at physical Driver Service offices. In certain locations, the DSD utilizes a program called “Join the Line,” which allows you to wait in a virtual queue instead of having to show up in person. After entering your info, you are placed in an electronic queue; when your name is called, the location will give you a phone call or text for proper notification.
Forms Needed for the Tennessee DSD
Whatever you’re looking to accomplish at the Tennessee DSD, chances are that you’ll have to fill out some paperwork. It’s ideal to get all of that done beforehand; otherwise, you may spend an exorbitant amount of time at a Driver Services Center to fill out pages and pages of forms. Luckily, the Tennessee DSD makes every single form they use available on their website, be it for driver services or vehicle services.
The Tennessee Point System
As is the case with most other states, Tennessee makes use of a point system to keep drivers accountable for their actions on the road. Whenever a driver receives a traffic violation, they also receive a number of points based on the severity of the violation. Adult drivers who accumulate 12 or more points in any 12 month period are promptly sent a notice of proposed suspension and a chance to attend an administrative hearing. During this hearing, you may be given the opportunity to attend a defensive driving course in lieu of suspension. Failure to show at the hearing will result in automatic suspension of your driver’s license. Consult the DSD website for more information regarding the Tennessee point system.
Get a Copy of Your Tennessee Driving History
The best way to prevent your license from being suspended is to stay on top of your Tennessee driving history. Also known as a motor vehicle record, it contains a list of traffic violations you’ve accumulated, along with the points associated with them. Keeping track of your points can be great motivation towards becoming a safer driver in the long run. You can order your driving history online, by mail, or at any Driver Service Center.
