Tennessee Drivers License Guide

Transcription

1 Tennessee Drivers License Guide Page 1 DriversLicenseAdvisors.org

2 Bonus Features Congratulations on your 60 day membership to our Roadside Assistance. When out on the road, you will know that you are covered and protected by an organization that cares about the safety of you and your family. Our customer service representatives respond quickly to provide you the best service and protection available anywhere. 24-Hour Emergency Roadside Assistance Benefits Customers are covered for emergency road service throughout the U.S. and Canada. 24-Hour Towing Service Customers are entitled to emergency towing service at no out-of-pocket cost for any tow up to 75 dollars. One service per seven days, two services per contract. Extended distance will be an additional expense covered by the customer. 24-Hour Mechanical First Aid Customers are entitled to any service requiring minor adjustments (exclusive of parts) to enable a disabled vehicle to proceed under its own power, where available. 24-Hour Tire Change Service Customers may have their tire changed with their inflated and functional spare tire. Page 2 DriversLicenseAdvisors.org

3 24-Hour Emergency Delivery A service truck will deliver emergency supplies of gasoline, water, oil or other necessary supplies. Customers pay only for the cost of the supplies. 24-Hour Emergency Battery Service Customers are covered for battery boosts and minor adjustments to alternators, starters, etc. while on the road. 24-Hour Lost Key Service If keys are locked inside a customer s vehicle, the customer will be assisted in gaining entry to the vehicle s passenger compartment only. Locksmith services may be dispatched as needed at the customer s expense for labor and key making. Rental Car Discounts Customers are entitled to take advantage of our rental car discount codes and pre-negotiated group rates, which are honored at thousands of locations throughout the U.S. and abroad. Map Routing Service We will, at no charge, provide customers with a four-color mapping and travel route information to destinations they specify. Theft And Hit & Run Protection A $500 reward is offered for information leading to the arrest and conviction of anyone responsible for Hit & Run damages or stealing customers vehicles. Whenever you travel, you will like the secure and confident feeling of knowing that you are protected by NSD s Roadside Assistance. Fast response and excellent service are just two reasons why millions of motorists rely on NSD s Roadside Assistance for on-the-road protection. Page 3 DriversLicenseAdvisors.org

4 Keeping You Safe Mile After Mile Once your purchase is processed, you will receive an with the information you will need to start your 60 days Road Assistance. Congratulations! Redeem Your $25 Gas Card Online Follow the link in your confirmation to start redeeming your $25 Gas Coupon. *PLEASE SAVE ALL THE INFORMATION FOR YOUR RECORDS. You will use your log in information throughout the course of your complimentary gas membership. Page 4 DriversLicenseAdvisors.org

5 Table Of Contents Starting the Journey 6 Getting Your First Tennessee License 12 Renewing Your License 15 Updating Your License Information 17 Replacing Your Lost License 19 Reinstating Your License 21 Getting a Tennessee ID Card 25 Vehicle Safety Tips 26 Driver Service Center Hours and Locations 29 Page 5 DriversLicenseAdvisors.org

6 Starting the Journey Welcome to the world of driving in Tennessee. Obtaining your license is one of the most gratifying moments in your life. Our purpose through this guide is to make sure you get to that moment with as little stress or complications as possible. Getting your driver license in Tennessee is a smooth-sailing process, which only requires you to prepare slightly before embarking on the adventure. That is where we come in; we are here to help you learn exactly what it is you need to prepare, and how to prepare properly. This is a process that will only take a small amount of your time; in fact, our guide is specifically organized to ensure that you are able to get through things as quickly as possible. Our handy ebook is jam-packed with information regarding everything from obtaining your learner permit, driver license or ID card, all the way to how to renew, replace or update these items. We will make getting ready to drive on the friendly Tennessee roads fast and easy. So, sit back and review our comprehensive guide, as we make life a bit less complicated. Page 6 DriversLicenseAdvisors.org

7 All Drivers You must remember that the roads aren t always safe; therefore, it is in your best interest to fully prepare for whatever may come your way before you begin driving. When you begin driving, you not only take on the responsibility of your own safety, but you also take on the responsibility of the safety of your passengers, and all passengers in the vehicles around you. So, in order to best prepare yourself to take on that responsibility, it is always wise to first obtain your learner s permit, which will aid in learning how to drive properly. If you would like to understand how to obtain your learner permit, review the sections below. Vision Exam To drive safely, you need to meet certain vision standards. For this reason, the Department of Safety asks that you have your vision screened before your driver license is issued. In Tennessee, you need to have a minimum 20/40 vision in each of your eyes, and together, to pass the vision screening. If you wear corrective lenses, you are required to wear them for the test, but your license will have a restriction, so you will only be allowed to drive when wearing your lenses. If you don t pass your vision exam, you will be referred to a specialist that will conduct further testing to determine if your vision can be corrected to safely operate a vehicle in Tennessee. Written Exam When you apply to get your first driving credential, you also need to have the appropriate knowledge of traffic rules and Tennessee road laws. If you need special accommodations, translation or an oral exam, make sure you call the office before attending, so arrangements can be made prior to your arrival. The knowledge exam is based on the Tennessee Comprehensive Driver License Manual. Study thoroughly before taking the test, because if you fail, you will have to Page 7 DriversLicenseAdvisors.org

8 wait seven days before applying to retake it, and you won t be able to continue with the licensing process until you pass. Crossing intersections At the agency, you will be assigned a computer, and you will have to answer multiple choice questions about traffic signs and signals, safe driving principles, rules of the road and drugs and alcohol. Making turns Driving Test Taking a driving test is necessary in order for the Department of Safety to determine your driving skills level. The first part of the exam, which includes a safety check, will show the examiner that you have an acceptable level of knowledge regarding your vehicle. When you go to take your driving test, you are required to provide a vehicle that passes the safety requirements. Changing lanes Obeying traffic signs and signals All drivers are required to schedule an appointment before taking the road test. You can make your appointment in person at a Driver Service Center, online or via phone, by calling Stopping the vehicle You must pass your knowledge exam before taking the road test. Make sure you arrive to the testing location at least 15 minutes ahead of your scheduled appointment. If you are five minutes late, you will have to reschedule your appointment. Backing up the vehicle During the road test, you will drive with an instructor seating beside you. The instructor will evaluate the following aspects: Judging distance Preparing and starting your vehicle Controlling gas and brake pedals and the wheel Speed adjustment Handling curves properly Communication with other drivers and sharing the road Page 8 DriversLicenseAdvisors.org

9 Be careful not to break any laws, perform dangerous actions or do anything that contributes to an accident. Follow the directions given by the instructor at all times. You must not make more than six errors to get a passing score on your test. If you don t pass the road test the first time, you have to wait some time before retaking it. This term is calculated based on the number of errors you had during your driving test: From 7 to 9 errors: You can take the test the next day. From 10 to 12 errors: You have to wait 7 days to retake the test. From 13 to 15 errors: You have to wait 14 days for a retest. 16 or more errors or automatic failure: You must wait 30 days to take your driving test again. Teen Drivers As a teenager in Tennessee, obtaining your first-ever credential to drive can be both exciting and nerve-wracking. Fortunately, we are here to guide you seamlessly through the process. In each step leading toward obtaining your license, we will outline and help you to better understand each procedure you must complete. As a new driver, it is important that you carefully read through each step and fully understand how everything operates. This is to ensure that you avoid any complications, but also to confirm that you are well-prepared to handle your on-the-road responsibilities. By completing these steps and obtaining your license, you will take those first steps toward proving you are ready to drive. Step 1: Learner Permit In Tennessee, the Department of Safety (DOS) enforces a Graduated Driver License (GDL) program. To be eligible to enroll in the first portion of the GDL program your learner permit in Tennessee you must be at least 15 years old and have passed the knowledge and vision tests. Once you meet these requirements, you will have to go to a Driver Service Center and provide: Primary proof of identity, such as a state ID card or a U.S. birth certificate. Secondary proof of identity, such as a computerized paystub. Proof of U.S. citizenship/lawful permanent resident status/authorized stay, such as a valid U.S. passport or Certificate of Naturalization. Proof of Social Security, such as your Social Security card. Page 9 DriversLicenseAdvisors.org

10 TWO proofs of Tennessee residency, like utility bills and bank statements displaying your address. You must always wear a safety belt Proof of name change documents, if applicable. With your permit, you will have 180 days to practice. Then, you can apply for an intermediate restricted license. Refer to Chapter Two of the Tennessee Comprehensive Driver License Manual for a complete list of documents you may provide. In addition to your identification documents, you must also have your parent or legal guardian fill out a Minor/Teenage Affidavit and Cancellation form and get a Certificate of Compulsory School Attendance from your high school. This form must not be older than 30 days. If you are homeschooled, you can provide: A letter from the local director of schools verifying that you are home schooled. Verification of Home School Enrollment (Department of Safety Form SF-1193). Your learner permit will be accompanied by certain restrictions: You have to be accompanied by a licensed driver, 21 years of age or older, seated beside you in the front passenger seat You are not allowed to use any type of mobile device while driving You cannot drive between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m. Fees: There is a $10.50 fee to get your one-year learner permit. Tip: The Department of Safety has online practice tests available that can help you pass your knowledge evaluation. Page 10 DriversLicenseAdvisors.org

11 Step 2: Intermediate Restricted License To be eligible to get an intermediate restricted license, the second level of the GDL program, you have to be at least 16 years old, not have more than six points on your record and have held your learner permit for a minimum of 180 days. To apply, first schedule a road test at the Driver Service Center. Once you pass the road test, revisit your Driver Service Center, and provide your learner permit and a Certification of 50 hours Behind the Wheel Driving Experience. Your intermediate restricted license will allow you to drive with one other passenger only, unless one passenger is 21 or older and holds a valid license, or all passengers are siblings being transported to and from school. In addition, you cannot drive between 6 p.m. and 11 a.m. unless you are accompanied by a licensed adult driver, driving to or from school or work or you are hunting/fishing between 4 a.m. and 6 a.m. with a valid recreational license. Step 3: Intermediate Unrestricted License For this next step in the GDL program, you must be at least 17 years old, have not caused a traffic accident, accumulated more than six points on your record or incurred two or more safety belt violations. In addition, you must have held your restricted intermediate license for at least one year. Fees: The fee for an intermediate restricted license in Tennessee is $ The fee for an intermediate unrestricted license is $2. Page 11 DriversLicenseAdvisors.org

12 Getting Your First Tennessee License Congratulations! If you have gone through the steps of the GDL program in Tennessee, you are now one step closer to obtaining your driver license. All that is required at this point is that you follow the steps below that best fit your situation to officially take hold of your brand new license to drive. Class D Operator License You can obtain your Class D regular driver license in Tennessee when you turn 18 years old, graduate high school or receive your GED whichever comes first. At the Driver Service Center, you can have the word intermediate removed from your license; however, the under 21 indicator will remain until your first renewal period at age 21. Adult Drivers: First-Time Licenses If you are 18 or older, have never had a license and are now looking to obtaining one, your procedure will vary from that of a younger teen driver. Getting a license for first-time drivers is a very simple process in the state of Tennessee by first following the steps on how to apply. You will not need to follow the GDL procedures of drivers under the age of 18. Instead, visit your nearest Driver Service Center and provide the following documents: Primary proof of identity, such as a state ID card or a U.S. birth certificate. Secondary proof of identity, such as a computerized paystub. Proof of U.S. citizenship/lawful permanent resident status/authorized stay, such as a valid U.S. passport or Certificate of Naturalization. Proof of Social Security, such as your Social Security card. Fees: To graduate from your intermediate unrestricted license to your Class D license, the fee for a new license is $10. TWO proofs of Tennessee residency, like utility bills and bank statements displaying your address. Proof of name change documents, if applicable. Page 12 DriversLicenseAdvisors.org

13 Refer to Chapter Two of the Tennessee Comprehensive Driver License Manual for a complete list of documents you may provide. At the Driver Service Center, you will be required to pass your vision, knowledge and road tests before your license is issued. Remember that road tests must be scheduled ahead of time, and that you must arrive at least 15 minutes early. Fees: The fee for a Tennessee driver license is $28. Page 13 DriversLicenseAdvisors.org

14 Adult Drivers: New Residents If you already hold a license from another state and have become a new resident of Tennessee, you need to obtain a Tennessee license within 30 days. It is very important to make sure that you obtain a valid driver license within this term. At the Driver Service Center, you are required to pass a vision screening, and then you will be issued your driver license. Since you already have a valid out-of-state license, you can get a Tennessee driver license without taking the knowledge and road tests (unless your license has been expired for more than six months). You will only have to go to a Driver Service Center and provide: Your current out-of-state license Primary proof of identity, such as a state ID card or a U.S. birth certificate. Secondary proof of identity, such as a computerized paystub. Proof of U.S. citizenship/lawful permanent resident status/authorized stay, such as a valid U.S. passport or Certificate of Naturalization. Proof of Social Security, such as your Social Security card. TWO proofs of Tennessee residency, like utility bills and bank statements displaying your address. Proof of name change documents, if applicable. Fees: The fee for a Tennessee driver license for new residents is $28. Page 14 DriversLicenseAdvisors.org

15 Renewing Your License If your license is set to expire, it is vital to take the steps to renew your driver credential as soon as possible. Without a valid license, you will lose your freedom to drive, and will risk getting a ticket that can affect your future privileges. So, it is best to renew your license as soon as you notice the expiration date approaching. As of 2016, a Tennessee driver license is renewed every eight years from the date of issuance. The Department of Safety allows you to renew your license either in person or online. Fees: The fee for a Tennessee driver license renewal is $28. Page 15 DriversLicenseAdvisors.org

16 Online Only use this method if you do not need to make any changes to your driver license information, and if you are comfortable using your photo on file for your renewed license to drive. You will need a credit or a debit card to pay the applicable fees online. To renew online, just click here, and follow the onscreen prompts. You must enter your last name, your date of birth, your Tennessee driver license number and your Social Security Number. At the end of the process, print the confirmation that will instruct you of your temporary driver license issuance while you wait for your renewal to arrive in the mail. In Person If you want to renew in person, or if you are required to do so, you can go to a Driver Service Center and simply provide your current license. You do not need the renewal notice, itself to complete this process. You will also have the option to retake your photo if you visit for in-person driver license renewal. When you renew your driver license in person, it will be issued immediately. Make sure to locate your nearest Driver Service Center ahead of time. By Mail Typically, the Department of Safety will send you a notice by mail about eight to 10 weeks before your license expiration date indicating the renewal methods you are allowed to use. You may be asked to visit a Driver Service Center if you renewed by mail during your previous license cycle. However, if you are granted the opportunity to renew by mail, follow the instructions on your renewal notice. Military Those currently serving in the United States Armed Forces do not need to renew their driver licenses upon expiration. A driver license remains valid so long as the holder is on active duty, is based outside of Tennessee and the license is not surrendered, canceled or suspended for any reason. All other members of the military can renew via mail, also known as a Code 30 by providing: A notarized copy of the front and back of the military ID card. Military Orders that prove you are stationed outside of Tennessee. Note If you renewed your license last cycle online, you must visit your local Driver Service Center to renew your driver license in person. Mailing and addresses. Fees in the form of a check or a money order. Page 16 DriversLicenseAdvisors.org

17 Updating Your License Information New life milestones are accompanied by factors such as permanently changing your name to moving neighborhoods. Either way, this information is essential to your identification, which includes your driver license. So, how can you ensure that these changes are made to your driver license when necessary? Simply inform the Tennessee Department of Safety. To better understand the procedures, follow the steps below that best fit your situation. Changing Your Name Making the decision to change your name is not only a big personal choice, but it will also greatly affect your documents and the general information in regard to your identity. If you have officially changed your name, due to marriage, divorce or a court order, then you must change your name on all of your identification documents and ID cards, including your driver license. To request a change of name, you must go to a Driver Service Center in person and provide one proof of the change. You can present: An original or certified copy of your marriage license, including your full name and date of birth. (The marriage must have already occurred before applying at the Driver Service Center.) A decree of divorce. A court order with the original signature from the judge or an official court seal. Fees: The fee for a name change ranges from $8 to $16, and depends on the number of duplicate licenses you ve requested and the type of license you have. Page 17 DriversLicenseAdvisors.org

18 Changing Your Address In the case that you may have recently moved to a new address, it is essential that you update the address on your driver license within 10 days of relocation. All you must do is follow the steps below that outline each available option. It is important that you provide the following: Full name By Mail You can change your address on your driver license in Tennessee by mail, if you so choose. To send your request by mail, simply submit a note with your new residential address to: Tennessee Department of Safety P.O. BOX 945 Nashville, TN Date of birth Driver license number Social Security Number Old address New address County of your new address In Person Tip: Remember that when you conduct your transactions online, you must have a valid credit or debit card to pay the fees, and a working printer to print your temporary license. You can also by pick up a Change of Address form at a Driver Service Center. Fill out the form in its entirety, and return it to your service center, or mail it to the address listed with the information above. Online You can also update your address online here. You don t have to pay to get your address changed on file, but if you wish to have a replacement license displaying your new address, you will have to follow the replacement procedure, and pay the applicable fees. Page 18 DriversLicenseAdvisors.org

19 Replacing Your License Incidents involving the loss or destruction of your license can happen, but the Tennessee Department of Safety is ready to help you obtain a new driver license as soon as possible. In any case, you can effortlessly replace your driver license with a new duplicate license in just a few easy steps. You can replace your driver license online or in person, at a Driver Service Center. Page 19 DriversLicenseAdvisors.org

20 Online To replace your license online, just click here, and follow the prompts on the screen. Enter your last name, your date of birth, your Tennessee driver license number and your Social Security Number. At the end of the process, you have to print the confirmation notice that will serve as your temporary driver license while you wait for your replacement to arrive in the mail. Note that not every applicant will be eligible to replace a license online. In this case, you can request a duplicate Tennessee driver license in person. In Person To request a replacement driver license in person, visit your nearest Driver Service Center. Make sure to bring proper identification to provide, as you will not have proof of identity via your current license. You can find a list of accepted documents here. Once you have filed your request, you will be issued a new license immediately after presenting the required documentation. Fees: Your first duplicate license will cost $8. Subsequent duplicates thereafter will be priced at $12, each. Tip: If your license was stolen, make sure to report it to the police to avoid identity theft Page 20 DriversLicenseAdvisors.org

21 Reinstating Your License In order to qualify to reinstate your license, you must first comply with the time constraints and pay the required fees associated with your offense. The Department of Safety will only reinstate your driver license if you complete all of the necessary requirements to remove any suspensions from your license. There are many reasons you might have a suspended or revoked driver license which, therefore, means there are multiple ways to reinstate your driver license it all depends on the situation. In Tennessee, you can lose your license under the following circumstances: Page 21 DriversLicenseAdvisors.org

22 Driving Under the Influence (DUI) or alcohol or drugs Drag racing Allowing unlawful/fraudulent use of a license Regular moving traffic violators Mental or physical difficulties that impair driving Not complying with the court following a vehicle incident Leaving the scene of an accident or a fatal crash Underage possession or purchase of alcohol Perjury related to driver license and/or vehicle use Failure to pay child support Leaving a gas station without paying for fuel A vehicle-related felony Failure to provide proof of auto insurance to law enforcement Evading arrest while driving Manslaughter/vehicular homicide involving a vehicle Two reckless driving convictions within one year Possession of 5 grams or more of methamphetamine in a vehicle To read more details about the above scenarios, review Chapter Eight of the Tennessee Driver License Manual. If you need any information or clarification regarding your suspended or revoked license or under what condition it falls, contact the Tennessee Department of Safety at during regular business hours. Page 22 DriversLicenseAdvisors.org

23 Paying Reinstatement Fees You can pay your reinstatement fees online by entering the above information into the Online Services database, and by providing a valid debit or credit card in order to pay dues owed. Additionally, you can visit a reinstatement center for in-person assistance during regular business hours. Driving Under the Influence (DUI) Driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs is dangerous and illegal. If you are found driving under the influence, you will face severe penalties and costly fines. To determine if you are drinking and driving, law enforcement officers use breath tests that measure your Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) level. If the result is 0.08 percent or more, you will be charged with a DUI. Typically, the amount of time you need to wait before being able to legally drive again is defined by the number of times you have been convicted of a DUI by a judge. In every single case, your license will be revoked. First DUI offense consequences: Your license revoked for a year A minimum of two days in jail Mandatory attendance to an alcohol and drug treatment program Fines ranging from $350 to $1,500 Tip: If you are uncertain of the status of your license, you can also use the online tool here to review your standing. The possible installation of an Ignition Interlock Device in your car Second DUI offense consequences: Your license revoked for two years Page 23 DriversLicenseAdvisors.org

24 A minimum of 45 days in jail Fourth DUI and subsequent offense consequences: Mandatory attendance to an alcohol and drug treatment program Your license revoked for five years, and possibly indefinitely A minimum of 150 days in jail Fines ranging from $600 to $3,500 Mandatory attendance to an alcohol and drug treatment program The possible installation of an Ignition Interlock Device in your car Fines ranging from $3,000 to $15,000 Third DUI offense consequences: Your license revoked for three to 10 years The possible installation of an Ignition Interlock Device in your car A minimum of 120 days in jail Mandatory attendance to an alcohol and drug treatment program Fines ranging from $1,100 to $10,000 The possible installation of an Ignition Interlock Device in your car Tip: If you know you will be drinking, make sure you have a designated driver that stays sober to drive you home. If not, make arrangements to call for a taxi or a ride share service. Never drive a vehicle after drinking. Page 24 DriversLicenseAdvisors.org

25 Getting Your Tennessee ID Card If you are not interested in taking up driving and obtaining your driver license, it is important that you consider getting an ID card, instead. An ID card is essential, because it is the easiest manner in which someone else can identify you whenever necessary, whether it be by law enforcement, or if you need to provide proof of your identity when traveling outside of Tennessee. There are two types of ID cards available to Tennessee residents: the Expiring Identification License and the Permanent Identification License. To obtain your ID card, you have to apply in person at a Driver Service Center office. You will be required to provide the following documents: Proof of name change documents, if applicable. Refer to Chapter Two of the Tennessee Comprehensive Driver License Manual for a complete list of documents you may provide. Applicants who are minors must have a parent or a legal guardian complete a portion of the Minor/Teenage Affidavit and Cancellation form at the time of ID card application. Primary proof of identity, such as a U.S. birth certificate. Secondary proof of identity, such as a computerized paystub. Proof of U.S. citizenship/lawful permanent resident status/authorized stay, such as a valid U.S. passport or Certificate of Naturalization. Proof of Social Security, such as your Social Security card. TWO proofs of Tennessee residency, like utility bills and bank statements displaying your address. Fees: ID (under 18 years old): $5 ID (over 18 years old): $12 First duplicate: $8 Subsequent duplicates: $12 Page 25 DriversLicenseAdvisors.org

26 Vehicle Safety Tips Before getting behind the wheel, it s important that your vehicle is prepared for any trip. This means checking the safety features and making any needed changes to your vehicle to guarantee a safe drive. Emergency Kit One of the essentials to safe driving is having a basic emergency kit available in your vehicle at all times. This kit should include items such as water, extra batteries, rope, a First-Aid kit, matches and a whistle. During the winter months, it is also important to carry items such as blankets, non-perishable foods, extra gloves and socks and a shovel. Winter Driving One of the most dangerous times to drive is during the winter months, especially if you live in an area where it snows and is prone to icy roads. Consider these tips below to drive safely during the winter: Page 26 DriversLicenseAdvisors.org

27 Don t Rush! Roads are often covered in snow and ice after it snows. Instead of driving fast and risking an accident as you hurry to get to your destination, try leaving a few minutes earlier than usual. This will allow you to drive slower and to avoid other dangerous drivers without being late for wherever you need to be. Don t Panic if You Skid or Slip In the event that your vehicle does skid or slip while driving, make sure you do not panic or slam down on your brakes. Instead, apply slow and even pressure on your brakes until you stop. This will prevent you from spinning further out of control. Check Your Vehicle Before you leave your house, make sure your vehicle s controls, brakes, tank, tires, antifreeze and exhaust are all in working order. It is also important that you remove any ice and snow from your car before you begin driving; this prevents the snow from blocking your view while you drive, or worse, flying off and hitting someone while in motion! Page 27 DriversLicenseAdvisors.org

28 Drinking and Driving Every year, thousands are killed as a result of drinking and driving. These events can be prevented; it only requires that you plan ahead of time by taking certain steps. Before you begin drinking, arrange for someone else to be the designated driver. If he or she also becomes intoxicated, it is important that you take a taxi. Never allow someone drunk to drive; instead, take away the keys, and call for alternative transportation. If you see someone who you suspect is drunk and showing signs of intoxication while driving such as making wide turns, weaving, swerving, braking erratically or turning abruptly call and contact authorities immediately. Also, make sure to avoid that driver on the road to ensure your own safety. This could mean you pulling over until that driver is at a safe distance from your car. Using Your Phone Driving while using your phone is one of the most dangerous things you can do. During those few seconds that your attention is diverted to your phone, a major accident could occur. Make sure you don t text, use the internet on your phone or receive calls while you drive to prevent accidents as best as possible. Things to Avoid Driving isn t always a relaxing experience. There are certain actions that can be both an annoyance and dangerous to you while driving on the road. These things are often avoidable if you make sure to take the necessary steps toward preventing them, as well as stopping them after you make the discovery. Wasting Gas If you drive often, start looking for ways to save on those expensive trips to the pump. Saving on gas is something that is possible if you take a few steps toward ensuring you hold on to some money in the long run. Some of the ways that you can start saving gas are by turning off the air conditioning, not leaving your engine running or speeding above 60 mph. These things are preventable and are not necessary in order for you to drive; therefore, you can quickly reduce the amount of gas you waste. Another way to save on gas is to make sure that your vehicle is functioning properly. You can do this by checking that your tires are properly inflated, your engine is well-tuned and that your octane level is the correct amount for your vehicle. Aggressive Driving Aggressive driving and drivers are both things that should be avoided to prevent on-road aggression or accidents. Aggressive driving is categorized as exhibiting behaviors such as aggressive tailgating, verbal or physical harassment toward another driver or preventing another driver from merging or passing on the road. If you are an aggressive driver, you are putting others at risk every time you perform any of the above behaviors. When you encounter a frustrating situation on the road, instead of becoming aggressive, take a moment, breathe, and then continue moving. Car Accidents One way to avoid car accidents is to ensure that your vehicle is safe to drive, and will not cause you any problems. To do this, regularly check that your brakes are functioning properly, your tires are inflated and not worn out, and that the steering and suspensions are checked by a mechanic. Page 28 DriversLicenseAdvisors.org

29 Driver Service Center Hours and Locations There are Department of Safety Driver Service Centers conveniently located across the state. Click here to learn more about Driver Service Center locations, schedules and wait times. Schedule a road test appointment. Have you ever visited your Driver Service Center and realized that you forgot a document? Save yourself an extra trip by using the DOS online services portal. You will be able to: Renew your license. Order a duplicate license. Advance your GDL license. Practice for your knowledge test. Add emergency contacts to your licensing records. If you have any questions, call , or if you are hearing impaired. Office hours in Tennessee are Monday through Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Note that Driver Service Centers are closed on official state holidays. Expect higher foot traffic and longer wait times on the days that follow holidays. For general inquiries, you may contact the Tennessee Department of Safety by at: Reissue your license. .safety@tn.gov Or, you can send a letter to: Change your address. Tennessee Department of Safety P.O. Box 945 Nashville, TN Pay your reinstatement fees. Page 29 DriversLicenseAdvisors.org

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