Tennessee Vehicle Registration

Tennessee Vehicle Registration: Complete Guide

Before you hand over your hard-earned money for a used car in Tennessee, it’s important to know your responsibilities as a buyer. Beyond making sure you’re legally able to register the vehicle with the Tennessee Department of Revenue, it’s wise to take steps to protect yourself from used car scams. One of the best ways to do that? Run a VIN check. A vehicle history report can help you spot red flags like theft, major accidents, title issues, or odometer fraud.

Vehicle registration in Tennessee isn’t just a formality; it’s a legal requirement to drive on Tennessee roads. To register your vehicle in the Volunteer State, you’ll need to provide proof of ownership (such as the title), proof of identity, and valid auto insurance. You’ll also need to pay the state and local registration fees at your county clerk’s office. Some counties may require an emissions inspection, so check ahead before making the trip.

Buying a used car in Tennessee? VinCheck.info makes it easy with a free VIN check—perfect for spotting flood damage, past accidents, and title issues before you buy.

How to Register Your Vehicle in Tennessee

For Current Tennessee Residents

Registering a New Vehicle

Bring the following to your local county clerk’s office:

• Manufacturer’s Statement of Origin (MSO)
• New Vehicle Invoice
• Current registration (if you’re transferring your license plate)

Registering a Used Vehicle

Bring the following to your local county clerk’s office:

• Valid certificate of title (properly signed over to you)
• Odometer Disclosure Statement (if required)
• Current registration (if you’re transferring your license plate)

For New Residents or Those Moving to Tennessee

If you’re moving from another state, register your vehicle by visiting your local county clerk’s office and bringing:

• Your most recent out-of-state registration
• The name and address of your lienholder (if you’re making car payments)

If you don’t have the above, bring your out-of-state title instead.

Note: All vehicle registrations must be completed through your local county clerk.

How to Obtain a Vehicle Title in Tennessee

For Current Tennessee Residents

Visit your county clerk’s office with the required documents.

If the vehicle is new:

Bring:

• Proof of ID and Tennessee residency
• Manufacturer’s Statement of Origin
• New vehicle invoice
• Copy of current registration (if transferring your license plate)

If the vehicle is used:

Bring:

• Proof of ID and Tennessee residency
• Valid certificate of title
• Odometer disclosure statement (if required)
• Copy of current registration (if transferring your license plate)

Note: If the vehicle is a gift, sold for a low price, or transferred between close family members, you may also need an Affidavit of Non-Dealer Transfers.

For New Tennessee Residents or Those Moving into the State

Visit your county clerk’s office with:

• Proof of ID and Tennessee residency
• Most recent out-of-state vehicle registration
• One of the following:
  • Name and address of your lienholder (if you’re still making payments), or
  • Your out-of-state vehicle title (if there’s no lien)

How to Renew Your Vehicle Registration in Tennessee

You have several options:

Address Change with the Tennessee DMV

You must report any address change to the TN Department of Safety and Homeland Security within 10 days, even if:

• You move
• USPS or 911 changes your address
• No fee to update your address in the system
• You don’t need to update your physical license (unless you want to)
• You must use your physical home address (no P.O. boxes)

Note: Updating your address with the post office does not update it with the department.

How to Change Your Address

1. Online via e-Services (Fastest)

• Go to e-Services
• Click “Change Your Address” under Driver Services
• To get a new license with your updated address:
  • Go back to the main menu
  • Select “Renew” or “Duplicate License”
  • Pay the fee and it will be mailed to you

2. At a Self-Service Kiosk

• Follow the on-screen instructions to update your address
• To get a new license, start a renewal or duplicate transaction
• Pay the fee to receive it by mail

3. By Mail

   Send a letter or completed Change-of-Address Form with the following:

• Full name
• Phone number
• Date of birth
• Driver license number
• Social Security number
• Old address (from current license)
• New address and county
• Sign and date the letter

Mail to:

TN Department of Safety and Homeland Security 
Attn: Driver License Records 
PO Box 945 
Nashville, TN 37202

   Updates take about 15 business days.

4. At a Driver Services Center

• Visit a Driver Services Center in person
• You can also request a new license with your updated address (fees apply)
• Required if your address change also includes a name change
  

Tennessee Vehicle Registration Fees

Frequently Asked Questions About Tennessee Vehicle Registration

Run a Tennessee VIN Check to uncover the full-story of your next vehicle.