The restricted license and ignition interlock in Tennessee

Who can get a restricted license

Under Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-10-409, a person whose license was revoked after a DUI conviction or an implied consent violation can ask a judge for a restricted license. It is not available when the case involved a death or serious bodily injury, or when the person has certain prior vehicular assault or vehicular homicide convictions.

The restricted license allows driving for set purposes, commonly work, school, treatment, court-ordered programs, and similar needs, or, when the driver uses a functioning ignition interlock, more generally. The judge's order sets the terms.

When an interlock is required

In some situations the law requires the judge to order an ignition interlock as a condition of the restricted license, including when:

• the alcohol concentration was 0.15 percent or more;
• a child under 18 was in the car;
• the driver has a prior implied consent, DUI, or similar violation within the previous five years (§ 55-10-409(b)(2)(B)).

A driver whose license was revoked and who chooses to drive with a functioning interlock can also apply on that basis.

The 10-day rule

After the judge signs the Order for Restricted Driver License, the Tennessee Department of Safety says to bring to a Driver Services Center within 10 days:

• the certified court order;
• an SR-22 certificate (for Tennessee, from a company licensed in Tennessee; a regular insurance card is not accepted);
• proof of an installed ignition interlock, if the order requires one;
• the fee. The statute sets a $65 fee for the restricted license order (§ 55-10-409(c)(2)).

The Department then issues a 90-day temporary license while it reviews the application. For Bristol, the nearest center is the Blountville Driver Services Center, 3769 Highway 11-W (423-279-3250), which reopened October 12, 2026 after renovations. Confirm hours before you go.

How long the interlock stays

The Department of Safety says the device stays installed for at least 365 days or the length of the revocation, whichever is longer. Removing it early, or failing to keep the required records, can lead to further consequences. Approved installers for Sullivan County are on the state list; the ones we could confirm are in the directory.

Paying for it

Interlock fees are paid to the provider. Tennessee has an indigency fund for people who qualify; ask your provider or the Department of Safety's ignition interlock program.

Where to go next

• Talk with your lawyer about asking for the order. The directory lists Sullivan County DUI lawyers.
• Line up SR-22 insurance before the order is signed so you can meet the 10-day window.
• See your license after a DUI for how the revocation works.

Laws, penalties, and requirements can change. This page is general information, not legal advice.