Embarking on the road to becoming a licensed driver is an exciting milestone, especially for young individuals. In Tennessee, the Graduated Driver License (GDL) program is thoughtfully structured to guide new drivers, often referred to as “I Learners,” through a progressive learning curve. This system ensures that as you gain driving experience, you gradually earn more driving privileges. With a strong emphasis on parental or guardian involvement and the cultivation of responsible driving habits, Tennessee prioritizes safety and aims to reduce accidents involving young drivers.
The GDL program in Tennessee consists of three distinct levels designed for individuals aged 15 to 17:
- GDL Level I – Learner Permit: The first step for all aspiring “i learner” drivers.
- GDL Level II – Intermediate Restricted License: Allows for more independence with certain restrictions.
- GDL Level III – Intermediate Unrestricted License: The final stage before a full driver’s license, offering greater freedom.
For a comprehensive understanding of the procedures to obtain a Graduated Driver License if you are under 18, refer to Section A-3 of the official Comprehensive Driver Manual. This guide will focus on the initial steps to acquire your Learner Permit and subsequently, the Intermediate License, setting you on the right path as an “i learner”.
GDL Level I: Your Learner Permit – The First Step for an I Learner
The Learner Permit, or GDL Level I, is your starting point in the Tennessee GDL program. It’s designed to allow you to begin practicing driving under supervision and learn the essential skills needed to become a safe and confident driver. Here’s what you need to do to obtain your GDL Level I Learner Permit as an “i learner”:
Eligibility and Requirements for I Learners
To be eligible for a GDL Level I Learner Permit, “i learners” must meet the following criteria:
-
Age Requirement: You must be at least 15 years old.
-
Vision Screening: Pass a standard vision test to ensure you meet the basic visual requirements for driving.
-
Knowledge Test: Successfully complete the Regular (Class D) Driver License knowledge test. This test assesses your understanding of traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices.
Tennessee offers resources to help “i learners” prepare for the knowledge test:
- Online Practice Tests: Utilize the practice tests available through e-Services. You can find these by clicking on “Take a Driver Services Practice Test” under “Schedule a Test” on the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security website.
- Online Knowledge Test Option: “I learners” aged 15 to 17 have the convenience of taking the Driver License Knowledge Test Online. This can be a great way to complete this requirement from home.
- In-Person Testing: If you prefer to take the knowledge test at a Driver Services Center, you can save time by scheduling a Knowledge Test Appointment.
Documentation for I Learner Permit Application
If you are under 18, in addition to the above requirements, you will need to provide specific documentation:
- Proof of U.S. Citizenship or Legal Presence: You must provide documentation verifying your U.S. citizenship or legal presence in the United States. Acceptable documents are listed on the Proof of U.S. Citizenship or Legal Presence page.
- Two Proofs of Tennessee Residency: Provide two documents to verify your Tennessee residency. These documents must include your or your parent/legal guardian’s name and current residential address (P.O. Boxes are not accepted). At least one of these documents must be dated within the last four months. Refer to the Proofs of Tennessee Residency page for a list of acceptable documents.
- Proof of Social Security Number: You must provide proof of your full Social Security Number. Examples of acceptable documents include your Social Security Card, W-2 form, payroll check stub, or shot records.
Restrictions for I Learners with a GDL Level I Permit
Once you have your GDL Level I Learner Permit, it’s important to understand the restrictions that apply to “i learners”:
- Supervised Driving: You must always be accompanied by a licensed driver who is 21 years of age or older and is seated in the front passenger seat.
- Driving Hours: You are not permitted to drive between the hours of 10 p.m. and 6 a.m. This restriction helps ensure “i learners” practice driving during safer hours, especially when starting out.
GDL Level II: Intermediate Restricted License – Progressing as an I Learner
After gaining experience with your Learner Permit, the next step in the Tennessee GDL program is to obtain a GDL Level II Intermediate Restricted License. This license offers increased driving privileges while still maintaining some restrictions to ensure continued safety for “i learners”.
Requirements for GDL Level II License
To qualify for a GDL Level II Intermediate Restricted License, “i learners” must meet the following requirements:
- Age Requirement: You must be at least 16 years old.
- Learner Permit Holding Period: You must have held a valid GDL Level I Learner Permit for a minimum of 180 days (approximately six months). This waiting period ensures that “i learners” have sufficient time to practice and develop their driving skills.
- Behind-the-Wheel Driving Experience: You need to accumulate 50 hours of behind-the-wheel driving experience, including 10 hours of nighttime driving. This practical experience is crucial for developing safe driving habits.
- 50-Hour Certification Form: Your parent, guardian, or certified driving instructor must sign a 50-Hour Certification form to confirm that you have completed the required driving experience.
- Road Skills Test: You must pass a Road Skills Test, which is administered at your local Driver Services Center. This test evaluates your ability to safely operate a vehicle in various driving situations.
- Documentation: You will need to provide Proof of U.S. Citizenship or Legal Presence and Proofs of Tennessee Residency again when applying for your Level II license.
- Vision Screening (if applicable): A vision screening will only be required if you are exchanging a learner permit or driver’s license from another state.
Important Information About the Road Skills Test for I Learners
If you are an “i learner” ready to take your road skills test, remember these key points:
- сопровождение Licensed Driver Requirement: Any applicant holding a learner permit who visits a Driver Services Center for a skills/road test must be accompanied by a licensed driver who is at least 21 years old and has a valid driver license. This ensures that “i learners” are transported to and from the testing center safely and legally.
- Permit Restrictions: A learner permit only authorizes you to operate a motor vehicle when you are accompanied by a person who is at least 21 years of age and holds a valid driver license. This is in accordance with Tennessee Code Annotated § 55-50-311.
- Test Refusal: If an “i learner” arrives at the Driver Services Center for the road test without being accompanied by a licensed driver as required, they will not be allowed to proceed with the test.
- Schedule Your Appointment: Teen drivers are strongly encouraged to schedule a Road Skills Test Appointment. Appointments help ensure that you can take your test at your preferred time and location, as walk-in availability may be limited.
By understanding and adhering to the guidelines of the Tennessee GDL program, “i learners” can confidently progress through each level, gaining the skills and experience necessary for a lifetime of safe and responsible driving.
