In this article, we provide supplementary information about warrants in Tennessee and how they can affect your ability to obtain or maintain a driver’s license.
For a more in-depth look at warrants, see our comprehensive guide on what to do when you have an arrest warrant in TN.
We’re providing this information based on our years of experience as a bail bond company.
Let’s get started.
What Happens to Your Driver’s License if You Have A Warrant in TN?
It depends on the situation.
Two common scenarios that could lead to a warrant and a driver’s license suspension/revocation include:
- Failing to appear in court: If you have been issued a citation or have a pending court case and fail to appear on your scheduled court date, the judge may issue a bench warrant for your arrest. This failure to appear may result in your driver’s license being suspended.
- Unpaid court debt: If you have been ordered to pay court debt and fail to do so within the specified time frame, your driver’s license can get suspended. Please note that practices and policies can change. For instance, in 2018, a federal court ruling found the practice of suspending driver’s licenses for unpaid court debts unconstitutional. The practice was temporarily halted in Tennessee but was later resumed in 2021 with certain changes, such as the implementation of payment plans for low-income individuals.
How Do You Clear A Warrant in Tennessee To Get A DL Back?
In short, the way to clear an arrest warrant in Tennessee is by surrendering yourself voluntarily. From there, you’ll undergo the process required by the court to get your driver’s license back.
If you are unsure about how to proceed with clearing an arrest warrant in Tennessee, it’s highly recommended that you consult with a criminal defense attorney.
Once you’re in custody, working with a bail bond company will help ensure you are released as quickly as possible.
Can You Just Pay A Warrant in Tennessee To Get Your Driver’s License?
For a criminal case, technically, no.
The closest thing to this is paying bail, which allows you to handle the warrant and get in and out of jail as fast as possible.
If you find yourself with a bench warrant due to missing a court date or failing to pay a fine related to a misdemeanor offense, you may have the option of hiring a lawyer to represent you in court. This can be a smart move, as an attorney’s job is to persuade the judge to clear your bench warrant.
When a bench warrant is issued because you failed to do something the court ordered, the only way to clear it is by doing what the court originally asked you to do or offering a justifiable reason why the requirement wasn’t met.
Can You Renew Your Driver’s License with An Active Warrant?
It is possible, yes, but it depends on the situation.
For example, in Tennessee, your DL can get suspended for failure to pay child support. It’s thus reasonable to assume that your DL wouldn’t get renewed in a case like this.
This is not legal advice. We recommend speaking with a legal representative for more information.
Can You Get A Driver’s License in Another State if You Have A Warrant in Tennessee?
There are no guarantees.
If the DMV in the other state notices you have a warrant, your license application will likely be denied.
Now, if you’re wondering about a suspended DL, you would have to commit fraud to get a new DL in another state, which is a bad idea (don’t do it!). The reality is that all driver’s license applications (to the best of our knowledge) ask you to disclose previous suspensions.
Can You Get A Driver’s License On Parole?
In some cases, yes.
The Tennessee Department of Correction (TDOC) has policies to help eligible offenders obtain valid forms of identification, which can include a driver’s license.
Moreover, according to Tenn. Code § 55-50-501 (read further on Casetext):
“If the person is released on parole prior to the end of the sentence, an operator’s license may be reissued on petition of the person’s probation and parole officer and upon satisfactory completion of a complete licensing examination, subject to the approval of the commissioner.”
Essentially, Tennessee law allows for the possibility of obtaining a restricted driver’s license under certain circumstances. If approved, a restricted license allows the individual to drive for essential purposes, such as employment, education, or to complete court-ordered programs.
The judge makes the final decision about whether to issue a restricted DL or decline.
Contact About Bail Bonds For Driving Warrants and DL Violations
When you have an active warrant in Tennessee, it can impact more than just your freedom; it can also affect your driving privileges.
To get out of jail quickly when handling your warrant, contact All-n-One Bail Bonds today.
Disclaimer: Tennessee may have more current or accurate information. We make no warranties or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness, or adequacy of the information contained in this post. Please refer to official sources.
