Yes, you can legally buy a car in Tennessee without a driver's license. Tennessee state law does not require a license to purchase and own a vehicle. However, the significant challenges come immediately after the purchase: you cannot legally drive it away, and securing financing and insurance will be extremely difficult without a valid license. The process revolves around establishing ownership, not driving privileges.
The primary document you need for the purchase is a form of government-issued photo ID, such as a state ID card or passport, to complete the transaction and apply for the title. The seller, especially a dealership, will still need to verify your identity.
The major hurdles are practical:
- Driving the Car Home: You cannot legally operate the vehicle on public roads without a license. Your options are to have a licensed driver accompany you to drive it away or to arrange for towing.
- Financing: Most lenders require a valid driver's license as a primary form of identification and to assess risk. Paying with cash or a cashier's check simplifies the process significantly.
- Insurance: While you can title a car without a license, you cannot register it without proof of insurance. Insurers are generally reluctant to provide a policy if the primary owner is unlicensed. You may need to list a licensed primary driver on the policy, which the insurer will base rates on.
The titling process with the Tennessee Department of Revenue is where ownership is formalized. You will receive a certificate of title in your name, but you cannot get license plates or registration until the insurance requirement is met. The following table outlines the key requirements and challenges.
| Aspect | Requirement/Challenge without a License |
|---|
| Purchase Legality | Permitted with a state ID or passport. |
| Titling | Possible; title can be issued in your name. |
| Vehicle Registration | Not possible without proof of insurance and a licensed driver typically required for the policy. |
| Obtaining Insurance | Extremely difficult; may require a licensed primary driver on the policy. |
| Securing Financing | Very challenging; most lenders require a valid driver's license. |
| Driving Legally | Prohibited; you cannot operate the vehicle on public roads. |
