State of Tenn. to offer new 8-year driver’s licenses

NASHVILLE — Coming in 2016, Tennessee drivers will be able to renew their licenses every eight years instead of five.

The Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security announced Tuesday that the change will begin Jan. 4.

The new eight-year licenses will include all classifications of driver’s licenses and identification licenses along with commercial driver’s licenses and motorcycle licenses.

“This is another step to improve the quality of our driver services and help better serve the existing population as well as plan for future growth here in Tennessee,” Commissioner Bill Gibbons said. “It’s our goal to enhance our driver services and provide convenient options for our customers.”

The legislation to increase the renewal years was proposed during the 2015 legislative session.