GHSA maintains data on state laws surrounding a number of highway safety issues. Below is information regarding laws in the state of Tennessee. For more information, consult the State Highway Safety Office.
| Increased Penalty for High BAC | Administrative License Suspension on First Offense | Limited Driving Privileges During Suspension |
|---|---|---|
| .20 | 1 year | Yes |
Mandatory for repeat convictions; highly incentivized for first convictions
| Open Container Laws | Repeat Offender Laws |
|---|---|
| No | Yes |
Authorizes full deployment of AVs without a human operator.
Bicycle helmets required for all riders under 16.
Under 1 yrs or 20 lbs or under in rear-facing seat
1-3 yrs and over 20 lbs in forward-facing seat
4-8 yrs and under 4'9" in booster seat
8 yrs or under and over 4'9" in rear seat if available
Rear seat recommended for 9-12 yrs
9-15 yrs (or 12 yrs and under and over 4'9")
Yes. Primary law.
Yes. Primary law.
Drivers with learner or intermediate license. Primary law.
All drivers, while vehicle is in motion. Primary law.
8 years
60 and over: fee reduced
65 and over: no expiration
Universal helmet law enacted 1967.
Primary
16 and over
Front
Permitted by state law
In school zones; on any S-curve that inhibits a driver's vision through the bend
Permitted by state law and city ordinance
Statewide
| Cars (MPH) | Trucks (MPH) |
|---|---|
| 70 | 70 |
| Cars (MPH) | Trucks (MPH) |
|---|---|
| 70 | 70 |
| Cars (MPH) | Trucks (MPH) |
|---|---|
| 65 | 65 |
17 years
|
Minimum Age (Years/Months) |
Minimum Duration (Months) |
Required Supervised Driving Hours (Night Hours) |
|---|---|---|
| 15 | 6 | 50 (10) |
|
Minimum Age (Years/Months) |
Nighttime Driving Restriction |
Passenger Restriction (except family, unless noted) |
|---|---|---|
| 16 | 11 p.m. - 6 a.m. | No more than 1 |
