A new driver’s license requirement is coming for some people moving to Tennessee

NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Tennessee’s population is growing every day. But if you’re moving here from one of nine different states, you may need to hunt down some extra paperwork before a Tennessee driver’s license will be issued to you.

“He’s so excited to learn to drive. I think he’s ready,” Shauna Seymore said.

Road safety is a priority for Shauna as her baby is about to be behind the wheel alone.

“We’re here to practice some more spinning,” he said.

“I feel good that I’m starting to relax. I’m starting to get used to it,” said his son, Shawn Seymore.

The Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security announced changes to driver’s licenses.

From January 10Drivers moving from California, Connecticut, Illinois, Kentucky, Maine, Nevada, Oklahoma, Vermont, or West Virginia must also bring a copy of their Motor Vehicle Registration when applying for a Tennessee license.

“We’re trying to prevent fraud but also the safety of drivers,” said Melody Rampy of the Department of Homeland Security. “Their sole purpose was to start with one driver and one license.”

Rampy says these nine states have not yet subscribed to a national database, the Interstate Verification Service (S2S).

Allows Tennessee to access your driving record electronically.

“There are a lot of drivers who are trying to transfer with a driver who has a suspended license, and we don’t want to give them a valid license here if they’re going to be driving,” Rampy said. “It’s just one of those things that seems like an inconvenience if it’s necessary, but if you want your license then that’s what’s required.”

Shauna said it was a worthwhile change if it meant drivers were safer on the road; especially considering that his son will be joining them with his new permit.

Rampy says that these states will eventually be added to S2S, it remains to be seen when this will happen.

The Tennessee Department of Homeland Security also says this is not a difficult document to secure.

There are several links To government portals to secure a copy of your Motor Vehicle Records.