Step 1: Confirm Eligibility 

• Your SEVIS record must be “Active” — check the “Form Issue Reason.” If it says “Initial Attendance” or “Transfer Pending,” complete your immigration check-in with your school’s DSO before applying (UTK ISSS). 

• Wait at least 10 days after your U.S. arrival before going to DMV so your I‑94 updates across government systems (Study in the States). 

• Dependents (F‑2, J‑2) must go with the primary F‑1 or J‑1 status holder and bring relationship proof (e.g. marriage certificate) (Study in the States). 

Step 2: Prepare & Apply Online 

• Apply online through Tennessee e‑Services to submit your driver license application and pre‑approve your documents (Tennessee State Government). 

• Study for the 30‑question Knowledge Test, aiming for at least 80% (24 correct answers) (UTK ISSS). 

• Optional: use free online practice tests based on the Tennessee Driver Manual (Tennessee State Government). 

• Pay applicable fees when taking exams (typically around $5.50 for knowledge and $28 for road test) (ISS Services). 

Step 3: Visit a Tennessee Driver Services Center 

• Bring original documents only: 

• Valid passport with valid F‑1 or J‑1 visa 

• Printed I‑94 record 

• Signed I‑20 (F‑1), DS‑2019 (J‑1) or Form I-797 (H1-B) printed in color and signed in blue ink ✔ 

• Two proofs of Tennessee residency (dated within the last 3–4 months): 

• Conditional Resident Alien Card (I-551); 

• Valid Foreign Passport with Valid Visa and I-94 attached (Note: The passport must have an English translation); 

• Valid Foreign Passport with I-94W attached; 

• Holders of F1, F2, M1, or M2 status should also present a valid SEVIS I-20 

• Holders of J1 or J2 status should also present a valid DS-2019 

• Temporary Resident Identification Card (I-688) 

• Employment Authorization Card (I-766) 

• e.g., utility bill, bank statement, rental agreement, paycheck stub dated within 3 months (ISS Services) 

• Social Security documentation: your SSN card if issued, or an SSA denial letter (SSA-L676) if not eligible for an SSN (Study in the States) 

Step 4: Take the Tests 

• Knowledge Test: 30 multiple-choice questions; must score ≥80% (UTK ISSS). 

• Vision Test: typically done onsite at the Driver Services Center. 

• Road Skills Test: takes 10–15 minutes; you must bring your own vehicle; same documents and fee required (KidCentral TN, UTK ISSS). 

• Some countries’ licenses (e.g. South Korea, Canada, Taiwan, China) may qualify for waiver of tests if a translated driving record is provided — check with your DMV (Vanderbilt University). 

Step 5: After You Pass 

• You’ll receive a temporary paper license during your visit; the official plastic license will arrive by mail within several weeks (UTK ISSS, ISS Services).