How to Get Your Tennessee Learner’s Permit
Verified by Steven Litvintchouk
Methodology & Editorial PolicyHow to study (step by step)
- Start your application
At age 15 or older, begin your application at the Tennessee DMV. (Parental/guardian consent required if under 18.)
- Take the Diagnostic Test
See what you know right now and what needs practice.
- Practice Tests (At least 2–3 sets)
Complete at least 2–3 sets. Short 10-minute sessions tend to work best.
- Clear your mistakes
Open the Challenge Bank and fix every missed question, then move to the next set.
- Practice exam simulator
Keep practicing until you’re consistently scoring 80% or higher.
- 3–5 short study sessions per week
- 80–120 total practice questions
TN DMV permit test - what to expect
The Tennessee permit test has 30 questions. You must get 24 correct (80%) to pass.
- Where: Any Tennessee DMV office (find locations)
- Bring: ID + SSN + residency proof + permit/license fee (see checklist)
- If you fail: Retake the next day.
- Commonly missed: legal blood alcohol limits and DUI rules, lane changes and blind spots.