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 |
Bicycle helmets required for all riders under 16.
Under 1 yr or 20 lbs or less in rear-facing child safety seat, following manufacturer instructions
1-3 yrs and over 20 lbs in harnessed child safety seat, following manufacturer instructions
4-9 yrs and shorter than 4'9" in booster seat, following manufacturer instructions (until 9th birthday)
9 yrs or younger and taller than 4'9", seat belt and in rear seat if available
Rear seat recommended for 9-12 yrs
9 yrs and older if 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 |
