Tennessee Driver Education

Unlike most other states in the United States, the state of Tennessee does not require teen drivers to take any form of driver's education before they are eligible to get their learner's permit. However, this does not say that teen drivers shouldn't do all they can in order to be sure that they are ready for the responsibilities involved when driving. Teens should still do all they can in order to understand the restrictions and guidelines in the state of Tennessee as they pertain to driving.

Those with a learner's permit must only drive with someone over the age of 21. This is to help the driver learn, and the fewer the distractions while driving, the better. You must be at least 15 years old, pass a written exam, and pass a vision exam before you can get your learner's permit. There are also nighttime restrictions for drivers under the age of 18, and the learner must hold the permit for a minimum of 180 days before he/she can apply for a regular driver's license.

When you apply for a driver's license, you will need a parent/legal guardian to sign a form stating that you have received a minimum of 50 hours of behind-the-wheel training. While you will still have restrictions on the age of the person in the front passenger seat (21) and how late you can drive at night, this license will grant more freedom than before, allowing the teen to gain valuable expertise in the world of driving.

What is the Donate Life Tennessee Registry?
This online Registry allows Tennesseans who are at least 18 years of age to register their consent to donate specific or all organs and tissues upon their death.
(If you are 13 thru 17 years old or younger, you can join Donate Life Tennessee, but your parents will make the final decision about organ and tissue donation at the appropriate time.)

Why do we need a Registry?
Prior to the Registry, the responsibility for giving consent for donation fell solely on the donor's family. Unfortunately, the family members were not always aware of their loved one's wishes regarding donation. This Registry will eliminate any doubt a family member may have about your wishes to DONATE LIFE. Your family will be provided a copy of your Registry sign-up at the hospital so that your life-saving wishes can be fulfilled.

How do I join the Registry?
The Department of Safety provides the opportunity for the public to sign up with Donate Life Tennessee when applying or renewing a driver's license or ID. Either way, signing up online or through the Department of Safety, your consent to be a donor is registered with Donate Life Tennessee Registry.

How will my family be informed of my decision?
You will have the option of sending an e-mail notification to your family members after you have completed the Registry sign-up. The organ recovery specialist will also notify your family at the time of your death. We strongly encourage you to talk to your family about your decision so they are aware of your wishes. Your family will be supported by our staff throughout this entire process.