DeSoto County DMV Office – 159 License Drive, Nesbit, MS 38651

To renew your expired Tennessee driver’s license at the DMV, you will generally need to provide proof of your:

Identity: You will need to present one valid primary form of identification or two valid secondary forms of identification.
Primary Identification (one required):
U.S. or out-of-country photo driver’s license, photo ID card, or photo learner permit (if not expired for more than one year). If the license is not in English, it must be accompanied by a Certificate of Accurate Translation and a valid International Driving Permit.
Original or Certified Birth Certificate (must have a seal and be issued by a government agency). Foreign birth certificates not in English require a certified translation. Hospital or baptismal certificates are not acceptable.
Valid U.S. Passport (if not expired). Passports not in English require a certified translation.
U.S. Military ID card (Active Duty, Retiree, or Reservist), Military Dependent ID card, or Discharge papers.
Immigration and U.S. Customs Enforcement documentation (such as a Certificate of Naturalization, Certificate of Citizenship, Permanent Resident Card, Employment Authorization Card, Refugee Travel Document, etc.).
Marriage Certificate (must include your full name and be the registered copy after the marriage).
Adoption Decree (must include your full name and date of birth).
Divorce Decree (if it shows a legal change of name, must have the judge’s original signature and/or official court seal).
Secondary Identification (two required if not presenting a primary document):
Computerized check stub (with your full name).
Union membership card (with your full name).
Work ID (preferably with a photo).
Financial institution documents (bank statements, etc.).
Social Security card or Social Security Administration documents (benefit statements, etc.).
Health insurance card.
IRS or state tax form.
Military records (assignment orders, Leave & Earnings Statement, etc.).
Tennessee Residency: You will typically need to provide two acceptable proofs of Tennessee residency. These documents must show your name and current Tennessee address. Examples include:
Current utility bill (including the postmarked envelope).
Current bank statement (not checks).
Current rental or mortgage contract (fully signed and executed) or a receipt including the deed of sale for property.
Current employer verification (paycheck/check stub, work ID or badge).
Current automobile, life, or health insurance policy (not wallet cards).
Current Tennessee motor vehicle registration.
Current Tennessee voter registration card.
Current IRS tax reporting W-2 form.
Handgun Carry Permit issued by the Tennessee Department of Safety to you, your parent, legal guardian, or spouse (proof of relationship may be required).
Receipt for personal property or real estate taxes paid within the last year.
Photo student ID and documentation that you live on campus (in-state schools only).
Social Security Number: You will likely be asked for your Social Security number. Bringing your Social Security card can be helpful.
Important Considerations:

Expired License: While your expired Tennessee driver’s license serves as a record, it is generally not considered a valid form of identification for renewal purposes.
REAL ID: If you wish to obtain a REAL ID compliant driver’s license (which will be required for federal identification purposes like flying domestically starting May 7, 2025), you will need to provide specific documentation, including proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent residency, proof of your Social Security number, and two proofs of Tennessee residency. It’s best to check the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security website for the most up-to-date REAL ID requirements.
In-Person Renewal: If your license has been expired for more than five years, you will likely need to take the written and driving exams again in addition to paying a reinstatement fee. First-time renewals in Tennessee often require an in-person visit.
Online Renewal: If your license has not been expired for too long and you meet certain eligibility requirements, you might be able to renew online. However, since your license is already expired, an in-person visit is likely necessary.
Fees: Be prepared to pay a renewal fee. There may also be late fees if your license has been expired for more than a certain period.
Temporary License: If your new license is not printed on-site, you will likely receive a temporary paper license.
To be absolutely sure about the specific documents you need for your situation, it is highly recommended that you visit the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security’s official website or contact your local Driver Services Center directly before your visit. This will help ensure you have all the necessary paperwork and can complete your renewal smoothly.