Tennessee’s Graduated Driver License Program

Tennessee’s tiered Graduated Driver License (GDL) Program is designed to help new, young drivers develop their driving skills as they ease into their driving privileges.

  • Level 1 - Learner Permit

    To earn the GDL Level 1 - Learner Permit, drivers must be 15 years old and pass the standard written and visual exams. Drivers must hold a Learner Permit for 180 days before they can advance to the GDL Level II - Intermediate Restricted License.

    To drive with a GDL Level 1 - Learner Permit, you must have a licensed driver 21 years of age or older in the front seat and you may not drive between the hours of 10 p.m. and 6 a.m.

  • Level 2 - Intermediate Restricted License

    To earn the GDL Level 2 - Intermediate Restricted License, drivers must be 16 years old and pass the road skills test. Drivers must have held a GDL Level 1 – Learner Permit for 180 days before they can advance to the GDL Level 2 - Intermediate Restricted License.

    Drivers cannot have more than six points on their record during the immediate 180 days preceding their application. A parent, legal guardian or driving instructor must
    also verify that the driver has 50 hours (10 hours at night) of driving experience.

    To drive with a GDL Level 2 - Intermediate Restricted License, you may only have one passenger in the car with you and you may not drive between the hours of 11 p.m. and 6 a.m.

  • Level 3 - Intermediate Unrestricted License

    To earn the GDL Level 3 - Intermediate Unrestricted License, drivers must be 17 years old and must have held a GDL Level 2 - Intermediate Restricted License for one year.

    Drivers cannot have accumulated more than six points on their driving record or two seatbelt violations.