Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-9-603 — TN Code / Title 55 / Chapter 9 / Section 55-9-603
Use of safety belts in passenger vehicles - Violations - Penalties - Arrest - Applicability
Status: in_force

(a) (1) No person shall operate a passenger motor vehicle on any highway, as defined in § 55-8-101 , in this state unless the person and all passengers four (4) years of age or older are restrained by a safety belt at all times the vehicle is in forward motion. (2) No person four (4) years of age or older shall be a passenger in a passenger motor vehicle on any highway, as defined in § 55-8-101 , in this state, unless the person is restrained by a safety belt at all times the vehicle is in forward motion. (b) (1) This section shall apply only to the operator and all passengers occupying the front seat of a passenger motor vehicle. (2) If the vehicle is equipped with a rear seat that is capable of folding, this section shall only apply to front seat passengers and the operator if the back seat is in the fold down position. (c) As used in this section, unless specified otherwise, "passenger car" or "passenger motor vehicle" does not include any motor vehicle that is used as a public or livery conveyance for passengers or any motor vehicles that are not required by federal law to be equipped with safety belts, except autocycles as defined in § 55-1-103 . (d) (1) A violation of this section is a Class C misdemeanor. All proceeds from the fines imposed by this subsection (d), except as otherwise provided by subdivisions (d)(2) and (3), shall be deposited in the state general fund and designated for the exclusive use of the division of vocational rehabilitation to assist eligible individuals with disabilities, as defined in § 49-11-602 , who have been severely injured in motor vehicle accidents. (2) (A) A person charged with a violation of this section may, in lieu of appearance in court, submit a fine of thirty dollars ($30.00) for a first violation, and fifty-five dollars ($55.00) for a second or subsequent violation to the clerk of the court that has jurisdiction of the offense within the county in which the offense charged is alleged to have been committed. (B) The revenue generated by fifteen dollars ($15.00) of the thirty-dollar fine in subdivision (d)(2)(A) for a person's first conviction shall be deposited in the state general fund without being designated for any specific purpose. Ten dollars ($10.00) of the thirty-dollar fine for the person's first conviction under subdivision (d)(2)(A) shall be deposited in the state general fund and designated for the exclusive use of the division of vocational rehabilitation to assist eligible individuals with disabilities, as defined in § 49-11-602 , who have been severely injured in motor vehicle accidents. The remaining five dollars ($5.00) of the thirty-dollar fine for the person's first conviction under subdivision (d)(2)(A) shall be retained by the court clerk. (C) The revenue generated by thirty dollars ($30.00) of the fifty-five-dollar fine under subdivision (d)(2)(A) for a person's second or subsequent conviction shall be deposited in the state general fund without being designated for any specific purpose. Twenty dollars ($20.00) of the fifty-five-dollar fine for the person's second or subsequent conviction under subdivision (d)(2)(A) shall be deposited in the state general fund and designated for the exclusive use of the division of vocational rehabilitation to assist eligible individuals with disabilities, as defined in § 49-11-602 , who have been severely injured in motor vehicle accidents. The remaining five dollars ($5.00) of the fifty-five-dollar fine for the person's second or subsequent conviction under subdivision (d)(2)(A) shall be retained by the court clerk. (3) (A) Notwithstanding subdivision (d)(2), a person charged with a violation of subsection (i) may, in lieu of appearance in court, submit a fine of thirty dollars ($30.00) to the clerk of the court that has jurisdiction of the offense within the county in which the offense charged is alleged to have been committed. (B) Notwithstanding subdivision (d)(2), the revenue generated by fifteen dollars ($15.00) of the thirty-dollar fine under subdivision (d)(3)(A) for a person's first conviction under subsection (i) shall be deposited in the state general fund without being designated for any specific purpose. Ten dollars ($10.00) of the thirty-dollar fine for the person's first conviction under subsection (i) shall be deposited in the state general fund and designated for the exclusive use of the division of vocational rehabilitation to assist eligible individuals with disabilities, as defined in § 49-11-602 , who have been severely injured in motor vehicle accidents. The remaining five dollars ($5.00) of the thirty-dollar fine for the person's first conviction under subsection (i) shall be retained by the court clerk. (C) The revenue generated by five dollars ($5.00) of the thirty-dollar fine under subdivision (d)(3)(A) for a person's second or subsequent conviction under subsection (i) shall be deposited in the state general fund without being designated for any specific purpose. Twenty dollars ($20.00) of the thirty-dollar fine for the person's second or subsequent conviction under subsection (i) shall be deposited in the state general fund and designated for the exclusive use of the division of vocational rehabilitation to assist eligible individuals with disabilities, as defined in § 49-11-602 , who have been severely injured in motor vehicle accidents. The remaining five dollars ($5.00) of the thirty-dollar fine for the person's second or subsequent conviction under subsection (i) shall be retained by the court clerk. (e) Except as otherwise provided by subdivisions (d)(2) and (3), no clerk's fee nor court costs, including, but not limited to, any statutory fees of officers, shall be imposed or assessed against anyone convicted of a violation of this section. No litigation tax levied pursuant to title 67, chapter 4, part 6, shall be imposed or assessed against anyone convicted of a violation of this section. (f) (1) A law enforcement officer observing a violation of this section shall issue a citation to the violator, but shall not arrest or take into custody any person solely for a violation of this section. (2) The department of safety shall not report any convictions under this section except for law enforcement or governmental purposes. (g) In no event shall a violation of this section be assigned a point value for suspension or revocation of a license by the department of safety, nor shall the violation be construed as any other offense under this title. (h) This section does not apply to: (1) A passenger or operator with a physical disability which prevents appropriate restraint in a safety seat or safety belt; provided, that the condition is duly certified in writing by a physician who shall state the nature of the disability, as well as the reason a restraint is inappropriate; (2) A passenger motor vehicle operated by a rural letter carrier of the United States postal service while performing the duties of a rural letter carrier; (3) Salespersons or mechanics employed by an automobile dealer who, in the course of their employment, test-drive a motor vehicle, if the dealership customarily test-drives fifty (50) or more motor vehicles a day, and if the test-drives occur within one (1) mile of the location of the dealership; (4) Water, gas, and electric meter readers, and utility workers, while the meter reader or utility worker is: (A) Emerging from and reentering a vehicle at frequent intervals; and (B) Operating the vehicle at speeds not exceeding forty miles per hour (40 mph); (5) A newspaper delivery motor carrier service while performing the duties of a newspaper delivery motor carrier service; provided, that this exemption shall only apply from the time of the actual first delivery to the customer until the last actual delivery to the customer; (6) A vehicle in use in a parade if operated at less than fifteen miles per hour (15 mph); (7) A vehicle in use in a hayride if operated at less than fifteen miles per hour (15 mph); (8) A vehicle crossing a highway from one field to another if operated at less than fifteen miles per hour (15 mph); or (9) An ADS or an ADS-operated vehicle. Except as otherwise provided by § 55-9-606(2) , for purposes of an ADS-operated vehicle, a passenger or human operator required to be restrained by a safety belt pursuant to this section is solely responsible for the passenger's or human operator's compliance with such requirement. (i) (1) Notwithstanding this section to the contrary, no person between sixteen (16) years of age and up to and through the age of seventeen (17) years of age, shall operate a passenger motor vehicle, or be a passenger therein, unless the person is restrained by a safety belt at all times the vehicle is in forward motion. (2) Notwithstanding subdivision (b)(1), this subsection (i) shall apply to all occupants between sixteen (16) years of age and eighteen (18) years of age occupying any seat in a passenger motor vehicle. (3) Notwithstanding subdivision (f)(1), a law enforcement officer observing a violation of this subsection (i) shall issue a citation to the violator, but shall not arrest or take into custody any person solely for a violation of this subsection (i). (j) Notwithstanding subsection (b), no person with a learner permit or an intermediate driver license shall operate a passenger motor vehicle in this state unless the person and all passengers between the ages of four (4) and seventeen (17) years of age are restrained by a safety belt at all times the vehicle is in forward motion. Amended by 2017 Tenn. Acts, ch. 474, s 8, eff. 6/6/2017. Amended by 2017 Tenn. Acts, ch. 358, s 3, eff. 7/1/2017. Amended by 2017 Tenn. Acts, ch. 358, s 2, eff. 7/1/2017. Amended by 2016 Tenn. Acts, ch. 1015, s 17, eff. 7/1/2016. Amended by 2016 Tenn. Acts, ch. 723, s 1, eff. 4/7/2016. Amended by 2015 Tenn. Acts, ch. 296, s 1, eff. 1/1/2016. Acts 1986, ch. 866, §§ 3, 4, 7, 8, 11; 1989, ch. 591, § 113; 1994, ch. 661, §§ 2, 4; 2000, ch. 700, § 3; 2000, ch. 945, §§ 2 - 4; 2004, ch. 893, §§ 1 - 5; 2011 , ch. 47, §§ 59, 60.
(a) (1) No person shall operate a passenger motor vehicle on any highway, as defined in § 55-8-101 , in this state unless the person and all passengers four (4) years of age or older are restrained by a safety belt at all times the vehicle is in forward motion. (2) No person four (4) years of age or older shall be a passenger in a passenger motor vehicle on any highway, as defined in § 55-8-101 , in this state, unless the person is restrained by a safety belt at all times the vehicle is in forward motion.
(1) No person shall operate a passenger motor vehicle on any highway, as defined in § 55-8-101 , in this state unless the person and all passengers four (4) years of age or older are restrained by a safety belt at all times the vehicle is in forward motion.
(2) No person four (4) years of age or older shall be a passenger in a passenger motor vehicle on any highway, as defined in § 55-8-101 , in this state, unless the person is restrained by a safety belt at all times the vehicle is in forward motion.
(b) (1) This section shall apply only to the operator and all passengers occupying the front seat of a passenger motor vehicle. (2) If the vehicle is equipped with a rear seat that is capable of folding, this section shall only apply to front seat passengers and the operator if the back seat is in the fold down position.
(1) This section shall apply only to the operator and all passengers occupying the front seat of a passenger motor vehicle.
(2) If the vehicle is equipped with a rear seat that is capable of folding, this section shall only apply to front seat passengers and the operator if the back seat is in the fold down position.
(c) As used in this section, unless specified otherwise, "passenger car" or "passenger motor vehicle" does not include any motor vehicle that is used as a public or livery conveyance for passengers or any motor vehicles that are not required by federal law to be equipped with safety belts, except autocycles as defined in § 55-1-103 .
(d) (1) A violation of this section is a Class C misdemeanor. All proceeds from the fines imposed by this subsection (d), except as otherwise provided by subdivisions (d)(2) and (3), shall be deposited in the state general fund and designated for the exclusive use of the division of vocational rehabilitation to assist eligible individuals with disabilities, as defined in § 49-11-602 , who have been severely injured in motor vehicle accidents. (2) (A) A person charged with a violation of this section may, in lieu of appearance in court, submit a fine of thirty dollars ($30.00) for a first violation, and fifty-five dollars ($55.00) for a second or subsequent violation to the clerk of the court that has jurisdiction of the offense within the county in which the offense charged is alleged to have been committed. (B) The revenue generated by fifteen dollars ($15.00) of the thirty-dollar fine in subdivision (d)(2)(A) for a person's first conviction shall be deposited in the state general fund without being designated for any specific purpose. Ten dollars ($10.00) of the thirty-dollar fine for the person's first conviction under subdivision (d)(2)(A) shall be deposited in the state general fund and designated for the exclusive use of the division of vocational rehabilitation to assist eligible individuals with disabilities, as defined in § 49-11-602 , who have been severely injured in motor vehicle accidents. The remaining five dollars ($5.00) of the thirty-dollar fine for the person's first conviction under subdivision (d)(2)(A) shall be retained by the court clerk. (C) The revenue generated by thirty dollars ($30.00) of the fifty-five-dollar fine under subdivision (d)(2)(A) for a person's second or subsequent conviction shall be deposited in the state general fund without being designated for any specific purpose. Twenty dollars ($20.00) of the fifty-five-dollar fine for the person's second or subsequent conviction under subdivision (d)(2)(A) shall be deposited in the state general fund and designated for the exclusive use of the division of vocational rehabilitation to assist eligible individuals with disabilities, as defined in § 49-11-602 , who have been severely injured in motor vehicle accidents. The remaining five dollars ($5.00) of the fifty-five-dollar fine for the person's second or subsequent conviction under subdivision (d)(2)(A) shall be retained by the court clerk. (3) (A) Notwithstanding subdivision (d)(2), a person charged with a violation of subsection (i) may, in lieu of appearance in court, submit a fine of thirty dollars ($30.00) to the clerk of the court that has jurisdiction of the offense within the county in which the offense charged is alleged to have been committed. (B) Notwithstanding subdivision (d)(2), the revenue generated by fifteen dollars ($15.00) of the thirty-dollar fine under subdivision (d)(3)(A) for a person's first conviction under subsection (i) shall be deposited in the state general fund without being designated for any specific purpose. Ten dollars ($10.00) of the thirty-dollar fine for the person's first conviction under subsection (i) shall be deposited in the state general fund and designated for the exclusive use of the division of vocational rehabilitation to assist eligible individuals with disabilities, as defined in § 49-11-602 , who have been severely injured in motor vehicle accidents. The remaining five dollars ($5.00) of the thirty-dollar fine for the person's first conviction under subsection (i) shall be retained by the court clerk. (C) The revenue generated by five dollars ($5.00) of the thirty-dollar fine under subdivision (d)(3)(A) for a person's second or subsequent conviction under subsection (i) shall be deposited in the state general fund without being designated for any specific purpose. Twenty dollars ($20.00) of the thirty-dollar fine for the person's second or subsequent conviction under subsection (i) shall be deposited in the state general fund and designated for the exclusive use of the division of vocational rehabilitation to assist eligible individuals with disabilities, as defined in § 49-11-602 , who have been severely injured in motor vehicle accidents. The remaining five dollars ($5.00) of the thirty-dollar fine for the person's second or subsequent conviction under subsection (i) shall be retained by the court clerk.
(1) A violation of this section is a Class C misdemeanor. All proceeds from the fines imposed by this subsection (d), except as otherwise provided by subdivisions (d)(2) and (3), shall be deposited in the state general fund and designated for the exclusive use of the division of vocational rehabilitation to assist eligible individuals with disabilities, as defined in § 49-11-602 , who have been severely injured in motor vehicle accidents.
(2) (A) A person charged with a violation of this section may, in lieu of appearance in court, submit a fine of thirty dollars ($30.00) for a first violation, and fifty-five dollars ($55.00) for a second or subsequent violation to the clerk of the court that has jurisdiction of the offense within the county in which the offense charged is alleged to have been committed. (B) The revenue generated by fifteen dollars ($15.00) of the thirty-dollar fine in subdivision (d)(2)(A) for a person's first conviction shall be deposited in the state general fund without being designated for any specific purpose. Ten dollars ($10.00) of the thirty-dollar fine for the person's first conviction under subdivision (d)(2)(A) shall be deposited in the state general fund and designated for the exclusive use of the division of vocational rehabilitation to assist eligible individuals with disabilities, as defined in § 49-11-602 , who have been severely injured in motor vehicle accidents. The remaining five dollars ($5.00) of the thirty-dollar fine for the person's first conviction under subdivision (d)(2)(A) shall be retained by the court clerk. (C) The revenue generated by thirty dollars ($30.00) of the fifty-five-dollar fine under subdivision (d)(2)(A) for a person's second or subsequent conviction shall be deposited in the state general fund without being designated for any specific purpose. Twenty dollars ($20.00) of the fifty-five-dollar fine for the person's second or subsequent conviction under subdivision (d)(2)(A) shall be deposited in the state general fund and designated for the exclusive use of the division of vocational rehabilitation to assist eligible individuals with disabilities, as defined in § 49-11-602 , who have been severely injured in motor vehicle accidents. The remaining five dollars ($5.00) of the fifty-five-dollar fine for the person's second or subsequent conviction under subdivision (d)(2)(A) shall be retained by the court clerk.
(A) A person charged with a violation of this section may, in lieu of appearance in court, submit a fine of thirty dollars ($30.00) for a first violation, and fifty-five dollars ($55.00) for a second or subsequent violation to the clerk of the court that has jurisdiction of the offense within the county in which the offense charged is alleged to have been committed.
(B) The revenue generated by fifteen dollars ($15.00) of the thirty-dollar fine in subdivision (d)(2)(A) for a person's first conviction shall be deposited in the state general fund without being designated for any specific purpose. Ten dollars ($10.00) of the thirty-dollar fine for the person's first conviction under subdivision (d)(2)(A) shall be deposited in the state general fund and designated for the exclusive use of the division of vocational rehabilitation to assist eligible individuals with disabilities, as defined in § 49-11-602 , who have been severely injured in motor vehicle accidents. The remaining five dollars ($5.00) of the thirty-dollar fine for the person's first conviction under subdivision (d)(2)(A) shall be retained by the court clerk.
(C) The revenue generated by thirty dollars ($30.00) of the fifty-five-dollar fine under subdivision (d)(2)(A) for a person's second or subsequent conviction shall be deposited in the state general fund without being designated for any specific purpose. Twenty dollars ($20.00) of the fifty-five-dollar fine for the person's second or subsequent conviction under subdivision (d)(2)(A) shall be deposited in the state general fund and designated for the exclusive use of the division of vocational rehabilitation to assist eligible individuals with disabilities, as defined in § 49-11-602 , who have been severely injured in motor vehicle accidents. The remaining five dollars ($5.00) of the fifty-five-dollar fine for the person's second or subsequent conviction under subdivision (d)(2)(A) shall be retained by the court clerk.
(3) (A) Notwithstanding subdivision (d)(2), a person charged with a violation of subsection (i) may, in lieu of appearance in court, submit a fine of thirty dollars ($30.00) to the clerk of the court that has jurisdiction of the offense within the county in which the offense charged is alleged to have been committed. (B) Notwithstanding subdivision (d)(2), the revenue generated by fifteen dollars ($15.00) of the thirty-dollar fine under subdivision (d)(3)(A) for a person's first conviction under subsection (i) shall be deposited in the state general fund without being designated for any specific purpose. Ten dollars ($10.00) of the thirty-dollar fine for the person's first conviction under subsection (i) shall be deposited in the state general fund and designated for the exclusive use of the division of vocational rehabilitation to assist eligible individuals with disabilities, as defined in § 49-11-602 , who have been severely injured in motor vehicle accidents. The remaining five dollars ($5.00) of the thirty-dollar fine for the person's first conviction under subsection (i) shall be retained by the court clerk. (C) The revenue generated by five dollars ($5.00) of the thirty-dollar fine under subdivision (d)(3)(A) for a person's second or subsequent conviction under subsection (i) shall be deposited in the state general fund without being designated for any specific purpose. Twenty dollars ($20.00) of the thirty-dollar fine for the person's second or subsequent conviction under subsection (i) shall be deposited in the state general fund and designated for the exclusive use of the division of vocational rehabilitation to assist eligible individuals with disabilities, as defined in § 49-11-602 , who have been severely injured in motor vehicle accidents. The remaining five dollars ($5.00) of the thirty-dollar fine for the person's second or subsequent conviction under subsection (i) shall be retained by the court clerk.
(A) Notwithstanding subdivision (d)(2), a person charged with a violation of subsection (i) may, in lieu of appearance in court, submit a fine of thirty dollars ($30.00) to the clerk of the court that has jurisdiction of the offense within the county in which the offense charged is alleged to have been committed.
(B) Notwithstanding subdivision (d)(2), the revenue generated by fifteen dollars ($15.00) of the thirty-dollar fine under subdivision (d)(3)(A) for a person's first conviction under subsection (i) shall be deposited in the state general fund without being designated for any specific purpose. Ten dollars ($10.00) of the thirty-dollar fine for the person's first conviction under subsection (i) shall be deposited in the state general fund and designated for the exclusive use of the division of vocational rehabilitation to assist eligible individuals with disabilities, as defined in § 49-11-602 , who have been severely injured in motor vehicle accidents. The remaining five dollars ($5.00) of the thirty-dollar fine for the person's first conviction under subsection (i) shall be retained by the court clerk.
(C) The revenue generated by five dollars ($5.00) of the thirty-dollar fine under subdivision (d)(3)(A) for a person's second or subsequent conviction under subsection (i) shall be deposited in the state general fund without being designated for any specific purpose. Twenty dollars ($20.00) of the thirty-dollar fine for the person's second or subsequent conviction under subsection (i) shall be deposited in the state general fund and designated for the exclusive use of the division of vocational rehabilitation to assist eligible individuals with disabilities, as defined in § 49-11-602 , who have been severely injured in motor vehicle accidents. The remaining five dollars ($5.00) of the thirty-dollar fine for the person's second or subsequent conviction under subsection (i) shall be retained by the court clerk.
(e) Except as otherwise provided by subdivisions (d)(2) and (3), no clerk's fee nor court costs, including, but not limited to, any statutory fees of officers, shall be imposed or assessed against anyone convicted of a violation of this section. No litigation tax levied pursuant to title 67, chapter 4, part 6, shall be imposed or assessed against anyone convicted of a violation of this section.
(f) (1) A law enforcement officer observing a violation of this section shall issue a citation to the violator, but shall not arrest or take into custody any person solely for a violation of this section. (2) The department of safety shall not report any convictions under this section except for law enforcement or governmental purposes.
(1) A law enforcement officer observing a violation of this section shall issue a citation to the violator, but shall not arrest or take into custody any person solely for a violation of this section.
(2) The department of safety shall not report any convictions under this section except for law enforcement or governmental purposes.
(g) In no event shall a violation of this section be assigned a point value for suspension or revocation of a license by the department of safety, nor shall the violation be construed as any other offense under this title.
(h) This section does not apply to: (1) A passenger or operator with a physical disability which prevents appropriate restraint in a safety seat or safety belt; provided, that the condition is duly certified in writing by a physician who shall state the nature of the disability, as well as the reason a restraint is inappropriate; (2) A passenger motor vehicle operated by a rural letter carrier of the United States postal service while performing the duties of a rural letter carrier; (3) Salespersons or mechanics employed by an automobile dealer who, in the course of their employment, test-drive a motor vehicle, if the dealership customarily test-drives fifty (50) or more motor vehicles a day, and if the test-drives occur within one (1) mile of the location of the dealership; (4) Water, gas, and electric meter readers, and utility workers, while the meter reader or utility worker is: (A) Emerging from and reentering a vehicle at frequent intervals; and (B) Operating the vehicle at speeds not exceeding forty miles per hour (40 mph); (5) A newspaper delivery motor carrier service while performing the duties of a newspaper delivery motor carrier service; provided, that this exemption shall only apply from the time of the actual first delivery to the customer until the last actual delivery to the customer; (6) A vehicle in use in a parade if operated at less than fifteen miles per hour (15 mph); (7) A vehicle in use in a hayride if operated at less than fifteen miles per hour (15 mph); (8) A vehicle crossing a highway from one field to another if operated at less than fifteen miles per hour (15 mph); or (9) An ADS or an ADS-operated vehicle. Except as otherwise provided by § 55-9-606(2) , for purposes of an ADS-operated vehicle, a passenger or human operator required to be restrained by a safety belt pursuant to this section is solely responsible for the passenger's or human operator's compliance with such requirement.
(1) A passenger or operator with a physical disability which prevents appropriate restraint in a safety seat or safety belt; provided, that the condition is duly certified in writing by a physician who shall state the nature of the disability, as well as the reason a restraint is inappropriate;
(2) A passenger motor vehicle operated by a rural letter carrier of the United States postal service while performing the duties of a rural letter carrier;
(3) Salespersons or mechanics employed by an automobile dealer who, in the course of their employment, test-drive a motor vehicle, if the dealership customarily test-drives fifty (50) or more motor vehicles a day, and if the test-drives occur within one (1) mile of the location of the dealership;
(4) Water, gas, and electric meter readers, and utility workers, while the meter reader or utility worker is: (A) Emerging from and reentering a vehicle at frequent intervals; and (B) Operating the vehicle at speeds not exceeding forty miles per hour (40 mph);
(A) Emerging from and reentering a vehicle at frequent intervals; and
(B) Operating the vehicle at speeds not exceeding forty miles per hour (40 mph);
(5) A newspaper delivery motor carrier service while performing the duties of a newspaper delivery motor carrier service; provided, that this exemption shall only apply from the time of the actual first delivery to the customer until the last actual delivery to the customer;
(6) A vehicle in use in a parade if operated at less than fifteen miles per hour (15 mph);
(7) A vehicle in use in a hayride if operated at less than fifteen miles per hour (15 mph);
(8) A vehicle crossing a highway from one field to another if operated at less than fifteen miles per hour (15 mph); or
(9) An ADS or an ADS-operated vehicle. Except as otherwise provided by § 55-9-606(2) , for purposes of an ADS-operated vehicle, a passenger or human operator required to be restrained by a safety belt pursuant to this section is solely responsible for the passenger's or human operator's compliance with such requirement.
(i) (1) Notwithstanding this section to the contrary, no person between sixteen (16) years of age and up to and through the age of seventeen (17) years of age, shall operate a passenger motor vehicle, or be a passenger therein, unless the person is restrained by a safety belt at all times the vehicle is in forward motion. (2) Notwithstanding subdivision (b)(1), this subsection (i) shall apply to all occupants between sixteen (16) years of age and eighteen (18) years of age occupying any seat in a passenger motor vehicle. (3) Notwithstanding subdivision (f)(1), a law enforcement officer observing a violation of this subsection (i) shall issue a citation to the violator, but shall not arrest or take into custody any person solely for a violation of this subsection (i).
(1) Notwithstanding this section to the contrary, no person between sixteen (16) years of age and up to and through the age of seventeen (17) years of age, shall operate a passenger motor vehicle, or be a passenger therein, unless the person is restrained by a safety belt at all times the vehicle is in forward motion.
(2) Notwithstanding subdivision (b)(1), this subsection (i) shall apply to all occupants between sixteen (16) years of age and eighteen (18) years of age occupying any seat in a passenger motor vehicle.
(3) Notwithstanding subdivision (f)(1), a law enforcement officer observing a violation of this subsection (i) shall issue a citation to the violator, but shall not arrest or take into custody any person solely for a violation of this subsection (i).
(j) Notwithstanding subsection (b), no person with a learner permit or an intermediate driver license shall operate a passenger motor vehicle in this state unless the person and all passengers between the ages of four (4) and seventeen (17) years of age are restrained by a safety belt at all times the vehicle is in forward motion.
Amended by 2017 Tenn. Acts, ch. 474, s 8, eff. 6/6/2017.
Amended by 2017 Tenn. Acts, ch. 358, s 3, eff. 7/1/2017.
Amended by 2017 Tenn. Acts, ch. 358, s 2, eff. 7/1/2017.
Amended by 2016 Tenn. Acts, ch. 1015, s 17, eff. 7/1/2016.
Amended by 2016 Tenn. Acts, ch. 723, s 1, eff. 4/7/2016.
Amended by 2015 Tenn. Acts, ch. 296, s 1, eff. 1/1/2016.
Acts 1986, ch. 866, §§ 3, 4, 7, 8, 11; 1989, ch. 591, § 113; 1994, ch. 661, §§ 2, 4; 2000, ch. 700, § 3; 2000, ch. 945, §§ 2 - 4; 2004, ch. 893, §§ 1 - 5; 2011 , ch. 47, §§ 59, 60.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-8-198 — TN Code / Title 55 / Chapter 8 / Section 55-8-198
Citations based on unmanned traffic enforcement cameras
Status: in_force

(a) A traffic citation that is based solely upon evidence obtained from an unmanned traffic enforcement camera that has been installed to enforce or monitor traffic violations shall be considered a nonmoving traffic violation. (b) (1) Only POST-certified or state-commissioned law enforcement officers shall be authorized to review video evidence from a traffic light signal monitoring system and make a determination as to whether a violation has occurred. If a determination is made that a violation has occurred, a notice of violation or a citation shall be sent by first class mail to the registered owner of the vehicle that was captured by the traffic light signal monitoring system. A notice of violation or a citation shall be sent within twenty (20) business days after the occurrence of the violation, absent exigent circumstances arising from registration irregularities. All notices of violation or citations shall have a Tennessee return address and all responses and payments shall be made to an address in this state. A notice of violation or citation shall allow for payment of the traffic violation or citation within thirty (30) days of the mailing of the notice. No additional penalty or other costs shall be assessed for nonpayment of a traffic violation or citation that is based solely on evidence obtained from unmanned traffic enforcement cameras installed to enforce or monitor traffic violations, unless a second notice is sent by first class mail to the registered owner of the motor vehicle and the second notice provides for an additional thirty (30) days for payment of the violation or citation. (2) The notice of violation or citation shall state the amount of the fine that is being assessed for the alleged violation. The notice of violation or citation shall state separately any additional fees or court costs that may be assessed if the fine is not paid timely or if the violation or citation is contested and the person is convicted or found guilty of the offense. (3) The person cited may elect not to contest the charge and may, in lieu of appearance in court, submit a fine not more than fifty dollars ($50.00) to the address provided on notice of violation or citation. (4) If the person cited does not pay the traffic citation within the time specified by subdivision (b)(1), then additional fees or court costs may be assessed. (5) If the person cited does not pay the traffic citation as provided in this section and the person cited appears in court at the time specified, or such later date as may be fixed by the court, and the person is convicted or found guilty of, or enters a plea of nolo contendere to the offense, then additional fees or court costs may be assessed. (6) Every notice of violation or citation issued that is based solely upon evidence obtained from any traffic enforcement camera used to enforce or monitor traffic violations of § 55-8-110(a)(3) , or any municipal law or ordinance that mirrors, substantially duplicates, or incorporates by cross-reference the language of § 55-8-110(a)(3) , shall have printed on the notice or citation the following disclaimer in bold-face type and a font that is the same size as the largest font used on the notice or citation: "Non-payment of this ['notice' or 'citation'] cannot adversely affect your credit score or report, driver license, and/or automobile insurance rates." (c) Effective July 1, 2011, a political subdivision of the state that installs, owns, operates or maintains either a traffic-control signal light located in an intersection or any other unmanned traffic enforcement camera for the enforcement or monitoring of traffic violations shall ensure that: (1) The traffic enforcement camera does not identify as a violation of § 55-8-110(a)(3) , or any municipal law or ordinance that mirrors, substantially duplicates or incorporates by cross-reference the language of § 55-8-110(a)(3) , any vehicle that legally entered the intersection during the green or yellow intervals in accordance with § 55-8-110(a)(1) and (2) ; and (2) Appropriate signage is located not less than five hundred feet (500') but not more than one thousand feet (1,000') in advance of the enforcement area of the unmanned traffic enforcement camera informing drivers as to the presence of traffic enforcement cameras at the approaching location. All regulatory and warning signs relating to the intersection or enforcement area shall meet the conventional road size or larger requirements of the MUTCD. Minimum size signing shall not be allowed. (d) The following vehicles are exempt from receiving a notice of violation: (1) Emergency vehicles with active emergency lights; (2) Vehicles moving through the intersection to avoid or clear the way for a marked emergency vehicle; (3) Vehicles under police escort; and (4) Vehicles in a funeral procession. (e) (1) Except as otherwise provided in this subsection (e), the registered owner of the motor vehicle shall be responsible for payment of any notice of violation or citation issued as the result of a traffic light monitoring system. (2) An owner of a vehicle shall not be responsible for the violation if, on or before the designated court date, the owner furnishes the court an affidavit stating the name and address of the person or entity that leased, rented or otherwise had care, custody or control of the motor vehicle at the time of the violation. (3) If a motor vehicle or its plates were stolen at the time of the alleged violation, the registered owner must provide an affidavit denying the owner was an operator and provide a certified copy of the police report reflecting such theft. (4) An affidavit alleging theft of a motor vehicle or its plates must be provided by the registered owner of a vehicle receiving a notice of violation within thirty (30) days of the mailing date of the notice of violation. (f) (1) Surveillance cameras are not permitted on federal interstate highways except for: (A) SmartWay cameras; (B) Other intelligent transportation system cameras; and (C) Surveillance cameras used to enforce or monitor traffic violations within work zones designated by the department of transportation when employees of the department or construction workers are present; provided, that the cameras are operated only by a state entity. (2) Notwithstanding subdivision (f)(1), in accordance with applicable state and federal laws governing the use or management of highway rights-of-way and subject to the approval of the federal highway administration as required by federal law, the department of transportation is authorized, but not required, to permit the installation of surveillance cameras operated by law enforcement agencies on federal interstate highways and state roads as a non-highway use of the highway right-of-way for the purpose of aiding in criminal investigations or searches for missing or endangered persons to the extent that such use is consistent with the continued use, operations, maintenance, and safety of the highway facility and does not interfere with the free and safe flow of traffic; provided, that these cameras shall not be used to enforce or monitor state or local traffic violations or issue citations for such violations. (3) Prior to the installation and operation of a surveillance camera by a local law enforcement agency under this subsection (f), the local law enforcement agency shall seek approval from the department of transportation. The local law enforcement agency shall demonstrate to the department's satisfaction that: (A) The manufacturer, surveillance camera, or any of the surveillance camera's components are not: (i) Produced, assembled, or based in an entity appearing on a sanctions list published under the authority of the United States department of the treasury, office of foreign assets control; (ii) Prohibited or restricted under Section 889 of the National Defense Authorization Act ( 48 CFR 52.204-25 ); (iii) Prohibited or restricted under Title 2 of the SECURE Technology Act (Public Law 115-390 of 2018); or (iv) Prohibited or restricted under United States department of commerce regulations on Information and Communications and Services Supply Chain (15 CFR Part 7); and (B) The manufacturer of and custodian of any data collected by the surveillance camera shall: (i) Comply with § 55-10-302 ; (ii) Ensure that all aspects of the manufacturer's and custodian's data services, data retention, information technology, or other internal data management processes are contained and managed within the United States; and (iii) Ensure that all data and metadata collected by the surveillance camera are not used for commercial purposes or sold, other than sharing with other law enforcement agencies in the United States as authorized by law. (4) At any time prior to, or following the department's approval of a surveillance camera under this subsection (f), the department may inspect the surveillance camera, components of the surveillance camera, and data collected by the surveillance camera in order to ensure compliance with this subsection (f). (5) The department may consult with the department of safety, or any other state agency to review applications and determine compliance with this subsection (f). (6) The department may revoke its approval and order the removal of surveillance cameras upon a determination that the manufacturer, surveillance camera, or custodian of data collected by a surveillance camera are not in compliance with this subsection (f). (g) Prior to implementation of any new unmanned traffic enforcement camera used to enforce or monitor traffic violations, the local governing body shall conduct a traffic engineering study for the area being considered. The study shall follow standard engineering practices as determined by the Institute of Transportation Engineers (ITE) and shall be stamped by a professional engineer specializing in traffic engineering and licensed to practice in this state. A vendor of traffic enforcement camera systems shall not be allowed to conduct the traffic engineering study, or to participate in the selection of such traffic engineer, to document the need for a traffic enforcement camera. (h) No citation shall be issued based solely upon evidence obtained from a traffic enforcement camera that has been installed to enforce or monitor traffic violations of § 55-8-110(a)(3) , or any municipal law or ordinance that mirrors, substantially duplicates or incorporates by cross-reference the language of § 55-8-110(a)(3) , unless the evidence collected shows the target vehicle with its front tire or tires before the stop line when the signal is red, and subsequently shows the same vehicle with its rear tire or tires past the stop line while the signal is red. (i) A traffic enforcement camera system may be used to issue a traffic citation for an unlawful right turn on a red signal at an intersection that is clearly marked by a "No Turn on Red" sign erected by the responsible municipal or county government in the interest of traffic safety in accordance with § 55-8-110(a)(3)(A) . Any other traffic citation for failure to make a complete stop at a red signal before making a permitted right turn as provided by § 55-8-110(a)(3)(A) that is based solely upon evidence obtained from an unmanned traffic enforcement camera shall be deemed invalid. (j) No more than one (1) citation shall be issued for each distinct and separate traffic offense in violation of a municipal ordinance or a traffic offense as provided in this chapter. (k) A traffic citation that is based solely upon evidence obtained from an unmanned traffic enforcement camera shall be deemed invalid if the registration information of the motor vehicle for which such traffic citation is issued is not consistent with the evidence recorded by such enforcement camera. (l) (1) Notwithstanding any law to the contrary, an unmanned traffic enforcement camera that monitors speed shall not be used to issue a citation to any driver for violating the speed limit on any public road or highway; provided, that this subsection ( l ) shall not apply to an unmanned traffic enforcement camera: (A) Within the designated distance of a marked school zone; or (B) On any S-curve of a public road or highway. (2) For purposes of this subsection ( l ), "S-curve" means a bend in a public road or highway in the shape of an "S" that inhibits a driver's full vision through the bend. (m) (1) For the purposes of this subsection (m): (A) "Consumer report" and "consumer reporting agency" have the same meanings ascribed to those terms by § 604 of the Fair Credit Reporting Act ( 15 U.S.C. § 1681(a) ); and (B) "Credit report" means any written, oral, or other communication of information, including a consumer report, by a consumer reporting agency bearing on a consumer's creditworthiness, credit standing or credit capacity, which is used or expected to be used or collected in whole or in part for the purpose of serving as a factor in establishing a consumer's eligibility for credit to be used primarily for personal, family, or household purposes. (2) No person having charge, custody of or control over any records or information regarding a violation of this section, including payments made pursuant to receipt of a notice of violation or a citation, whether timely or delinquent, shall disclose these records or information to a consumer reporting agency. In addition, no information regarding a violation shall be disclosed or identified in any credit report. (n) A local government shall include in any contract involving unmanned traffic enforcement cameras that the contract must conform to any changes in state law. New and existing contracts, as well as contract renewals occurring after July 1, 2012, shall contain a provision that the contract shall comply with all applicable revisions of state law. Amended by 2023 Tenn. Acts, ch. 193, s 1, eff. 7/1/2023. Amended by 2021 Tenn. Acts, ch. 450, s 2, eff. 5/14/2021. Amended by 2016 Tenn. Acts, ch. 998, s 1, eff. 4/27/2016. Amended by 2015 Tenn. Acts, ch. 468, s 1, eff. 7/1/2015. Acts 2008 , ch. 962, § 1; 2009 , ch. 389, §§ 1, 2; 2011 , ch. 425, §§ 1-5, 9; 2012 , ch. 709, § 1; 2012 , ch. 751, § 1.
(a) A traffic citation that is based solely upon evidence obtained from an unmanned traffic enforcement camera that has been installed to enforce or monitor traffic violations shall be considered a nonmoving traffic violation.
(b) (1) Only POST-certified or state-commissioned law enforcement officers shall be authorized to review video evidence from a traffic light signal monitoring system and make a determination as to whether a violation has occurred. If a determination is made that a violation has occurred, a notice of violation or a citation shall be sent by first class mail to the registered owner of the vehicle that was captured by the traffic light signal monitoring system. A notice of violation or a citation shall be sent within twenty (20) business days after the occurrence of the violation, absent exigent circumstances arising from registration irregularities. All notices of violation or citations shall have a Tennessee return address and all responses and payments shall be made to an address in this state. A notice of violation or citation shall allow for payment of the traffic violation or citation within thirty (30) days of the mailing of the notice. No additional penalty or other costs shall be assessed for nonpayment of a traffic violation or citation that is based solely on evidence obtained from unmanned traffic enforcement cameras installed to enforce or monitor traffic violations, unless a second notice is sent by first class mail to the registered owner of the motor vehicle and the second notice provides for an additional thirty (30) days for payment of the violation or citation. (2) The notice of violation or citation shall state the amount of the fine that is being assessed for the alleged violation. The notice of violation or citation shall state separately any additional fees or court costs that may be assessed if the fine is not paid timely or if the violation or citation is contested and the person is convicted or found guilty of the offense. (3) The person cited may elect not to contest the charge and may, in lieu of appearance in court, submit a fine not more than fifty dollars ($50.00) to the address provided on notice of violation or citation. (4) If the person cited does not pay the traffic citation within the time specified by subdivision (b)(1), then additional fees or court costs may be assessed. (5) If the person cited does not pay the traffic citation as provided in this section and the person cited appears in court at the time specified, or such later date as may be fixed by the court, and the person is convicted or found guilty of, or enters a plea of nolo contendere to the offense, then additional fees or court costs may be assessed. (6) Every notice of violation or citation issued that is based solely upon evidence obtained from any traffic enforcement camera used to enforce or monitor traffic violations of § 55-8-110(a)(3) , or any municipal law or ordinance that mirrors, substantially duplicates, or incorporates by cross-reference the language of § 55-8-110(a)(3) , shall have printed on the notice or citation the following disclaimer in bold-face type and a font that is the same size as the largest font used on the notice or citation: "Non-payment of this ['notice' or 'citation'] cannot adversely affect your credit score or report, driver license, and/or automobile insurance rates."
(1) Only POST-certified or state-commissioned law enforcement officers shall be authorized to review video evidence from a traffic light signal monitoring system and make a determination as to whether a violation has occurred. If a determination is made that a violation has occurred, a notice of violation or a citation shall be sent by first class mail to the registered owner of the vehicle that was captured by the traffic light signal monitoring system. A notice of violation or a citation shall be sent within twenty (20) business days after the occurrence of the violation, absent exigent circumstances arising from registration irregularities. All notices of violation or citations shall have a Tennessee return address and all responses and payments shall be made to an address in this state. A notice of violation or citation shall allow for payment of the traffic violation or citation within thirty (30) days of the mailing of the notice. No additional penalty or other costs shall be assessed for nonpayment of a traffic violation or citation that is based solely on evidence obtained from unmanned traffic enforcement cameras installed to enforce or monitor traffic violations, unless a second notice is sent by first class mail to the registered owner of the motor vehicle and the second notice provides for an additional thirty (30) days for payment of the violation or citation.
(2) The notice of violation or citation shall state the amount of the fine that is being assessed for the alleged violation. The notice of violation or citation shall state separately any additional fees or court costs that may be assessed if the fine is not paid timely or if the violation or citation is contested and the person is convicted or found guilty of the offense.
(3) The person cited may elect not to contest the charge and may, in lieu of appearance in court, submit a fine not more than fifty dollars ($50.00) to the address provided on notice of violation or citation.
(4) If the person cited does not pay the traffic citation within the time specified by subdivision (b)(1), then additional fees or court costs may be assessed.
(5) If the person cited does not pay the traffic citation as provided in this section and the person cited appears in court at the time specified, or such later date as may be fixed by the court, and the person is convicted or found guilty of, or enters a plea of nolo contendere to the offense, then additional fees or court costs may be assessed.
(6) Every notice of violation or citation issued that is based solely upon evidence obtained from any traffic enforcement camera used to enforce or monitor traffic violations of § 55-8-110(a)(3) , or any municipal law or ordinance that mirrors, substantially duplicates, or incorporates by cross-reference the language of § 55-8-110(a)(3) , shall have printed on the notice or citation the following disclaimer in bold-face type and a font that is the same size as the largest font used on the notice or citation: "Non-payment of this ['notice' or 'citation'] cannot adversely affect your credit score or report, driver license, and/or automobile insurance rates."
(c) Effective July 1, 2011, a political subdivision of the state that installs, owns, operates or maintains either a traffic-control signal light located in an intersection or any other unmanned traffic enforcement camera for the enforcement or monitoring of traffic violations shall ensure that: (1) The traffic enforcement camera does not identify as a violation of § 55-8-110(a)(3) , or any municipal law or ordinance that mirrors, substantially duplicates or incorporates by cross-reference the language of § 55-8-110(a)(3) , any vehicle that legally entered the intersection during the green or yellow intervals in accordance with § 55-8-110(a)(1) and (2) ; and (2) Appropriate signage is located not less than five hundred feet (500') but not more than one thousand feet (1,000') in advance of the enforcement area of the unmanned traffic enforcement camera informing drivers as to the presence of traffic enforcement cameras at the approaching location. All regulatory and warning signs relating to the intersection or enforcement area shall meet the conventional road size or larger requirements of the MUTCD. Minimum size signing shall not be allowed.
(1) The traffic enforcement camera does not identify as a violation of § 55-8-110(a)(3) , or any municipal law or ordinance that mirrors, substantially duplicates or incorporates by cross-reference the language of § 55-8-110(a)(3) , any vehicle that legally entered the intersection during the green or yellow intervals in accordance with § 55-8-110(a)(1) and (2) ; and
(2) Appropriate signage is located not less than five hundred feet (500') but not more than one thousand feet (1,000') in advance of the enforcement area of the unmanned traffic enforcement camera informing drivers as to the presence of traffic enforcement cameras at the approaching location. All regulatory and warning signs relating to the intersection or enforcement area shall meet the conventional road size or larger requirements of the MUTCD. Minimum size signing shall not be allowed.
(d) The following vehicles are exempt from receiving a notice of violation: (1) Emergency vehicles with active emergency lights; (2) Vehicles moving through the intersection to avoid or clear the way for a marked emergency vehicle; (3) Vehicles under police escort; and (4) Vehicles in a funeral procession.
(1) Emergency vehicles with active emergency lights;
(2) Vehicles moving through the intersection to avoid or clear the way for a marked emergency vehicle;
(3) Vehicles under police escort; and
(4) Vehicles in a funeral procession.
(e) (1) Except as otherwise provided in this subsection (e), the registered owner of the motor vehicle shall be responsible for payment of any notice of violation or citation issued as the result of a traffic light monitoring system. (2) An owner of a vehicle shall not be responsible for the violation if, on or before the designated court date, the owner furnishes the court an affidavit stating the name and address of the person or entity that leased, rented or otherwise had care, custody or control of the motor vehicle at the time of the violation. (3) If a motor vehicle or its plates were stolen at the time of the alleged violation, the registered owner must provide an affidavit denying the owner was an operator and provide a certified copy of the police report reflecting such theft. (4) An affidavit alleging theft of a motor vehicle or its plates must be provided by the registered owner of a vehicle receiving a notice of violation within thirty (30) days of the mailing date of the notice of violation.
(1) Except as otherwise provided in this subsection (e), the registered owner of the motor vehicle shall be responsible for payment of any notice of violation or citation issued as the result of a traffic light monitoring system.
(2) An owner of a vehicle shall not be responsible for the violation if, on or before the designated court date, the owner furnishes the court an affidavit stating the name and address of the person or entity that leased, rented or otherwise had care, custody or control of the motor vehicle at the time of the violation.
(3) If a motor vehicle or its plates were stolen at the time of the alleged violation, the registered owner must provide an affidavit denying the owner was an operator and provide a certified copy of the police report reflecting such theft.
(4) An affidavit alleging theft of a motor vehicle or its plates must be provided by the registered owner of a vehicle receiving a notice of violation within thirty (30) days of the mailing date of the notice of violation.
(f) (1) Surveillance cameras are not permitted on federal interstate highways except for: (A) SmartWay cameras; (B) Other intelligent transportation system cameras; and (C) Surveillance cameras used to enforce or monitor traffic violations within work zones designated by the department of transportation when employees of the department or construction workers are present; provided, that the cameras are operated only by a state entity. (2) Notwithstanding subdivision (f)(1), in accordance with applicable state and federal laws governing the use or management of highway rights-of-way and subject to the approval of the federal highway administration as required by federal law, the department of transportation is authorized, but not required, to permit the installation of surveillance cameras operated by law enforcement agencies on federal interstate highways and state roads as a non-highway use of the highway right-of-way for the purpose of aiding in criminal investigations or searches for missing or endangered persons to the extent that such use is consistent with the continued use, operations, maintenance, and safety of the highway facility and does not interfere with the free and safe flow of traffic; provided, that these cameras shall not be used to enforce or monitor state or local traffic violations or issue citations for such violations. (3) Prior to the installation and operation of a surveillance camera by a local law enforcement agency under this subsection (f), the local law enforcement agency shall seek approval from the department of transportation. The local law enforcement agency shall demonstrate to the department's satisfaction that: (A) The manufacturer, surveillance camera, or any of the surveillance camera's components are not: (i) Produced, assembled, or based in an entity appearing on a sanctions list published under the authority of the United States department of the treasury, office of foreign assets control; (ii) Prohibited or restricted under Section 889 of the National Defense Authorization Act ( 48 CFR 52.204-25 ); (iii) Prohibited or restricted under Title 2 of the SECURE Technology Act (Public Law 115-390 of 2018); or (iv) Prohibited or restricted under United States department of commerce regulations on Information and Communications and Services Supply Chain (15 CFR Part 7); and (B) The manufacturer of and custodian of any data collected by the surveillance camera shall: (i) Comply with § 55-10-302 ; (ii) Ensure that all aspects of the manufacturer's and custodian's data services, data retention, information technology, or other internal data management processes are contained and managed within the United States; and (iii) Ensure that all data and metadata collected by the surveillance camera are not used for commercial purposes or sold, other than sharing with other law enforcement agencies in the United States as authorized by law. (4) At any time prior to, or following the department's approval of a surveillance camera under this subsection (f), the department may inspect the surveillance camera, components of the surveillance camera, and data collected by the surveillance camera in order to ensure compliance with this subsection (f). (5) The department may consult with the department of safety, or any other state agency to review applications and determine compliance with this subsection (f). (6) The department may revoke its approval and order the removal of surveillance cameras upon a determination that the manufacturer, surveillance camera, or custodian of data collected by a surveillance camera are not in compliance with this subsection (f).
(1) Surveillance cameras are not permitted on federal interstate highways except for: (A) SmartWay cameras; (B) Other intelligent transportation system cameras; and (C) Surveillance cameras used to enforce or monitor traffic violations within work zones designated by the department of transportation when employees of the department or construction workers are present; provided, that the cameras are operated only by a state entity.
(A) SmartWay cameras;
(B) Other intelligent transportation system cameras; and
(C) Surveillance cameras used to enforce or monitor traffic violations within work zones designated by the department of transportation when employees of the department or construction workers are present; provided, that the cameras are operated only by a state entity.
(2) Notwithstanding subdivision (f)(1), in accordance with applicable state and federal laws governing the use or management of highway rights-of-way and subject to the approval of the federal highway administration as required by federal law, the department of transportation is authorized, but not required, to permit the installation of surveillance cameras operated by law enforcement agencies on federal interstate highways and state roads as a non-highway use of the highway right-of-way for the purpose of aiding in criminal investigations or searches for missing or endangered persons to the extent that such use is consistent with the continued use, operations, maintenance, and safety of the highway facility and does not interfere with the free and safe flow of traffic; provided, that these cameras shall not be used to enforce or monitor state or local traffic violations or issue citations for such violations.
(3) Prior to the installation and operation of a surveillance camera by a local law enforcement agency under this subsection (f), the local law enforcement agency shall seek approval from the department of transportation. The local law enforcement agency shall demonstrate to the department's satisfaction that: (A) The manufacturer, surveillance camera, or any of the surveillance camera's components are not: (i) Produced, assembled, or based in an entity appearing on a sanctions list published under the authority of the United States department of the treasury, office of foreign assets control; (ii) Prohibited or restricted under Section 889 of the National Defense Authorization Act ( 48 CFR 52.204-25 ); (iii) Prohibited or restricted under Title 2 of the SECURE Technology Act (Public Law 115-390 of 2018); or (iv) Prohibited or restricted under United States department of commerce regulations on Information and Communications and Services Supply Chain (15 CFR Part 7); and (B) The manufacturer of and custodian of any data collected by the surveillance camera shall: (i) Comply with § 55-10-302 ; (ii) Ensure that all aspects of the manufacturer's and custodian's data services, data retention, information technology, or other internal data management processes are contained and managed within the United States; and (iii) Ensure that all data and metadata collected by the surveillance camera are not used for commercial purposes or sold, other than sharing with other law enforcement agencies in the United States as authorized by law.
(A) The manufacturer, surveillance camera, or any of the surveillance camera's components are not: (i) Produced, assembled, or based in an entity appearing on a sanctions list published under the authority of the United States department of the treasury, office of foreign assets control; (ii) Prohibited or restricted under Section 889 of the National Defense Authorization Act ( 48 CFR 52.204-25 ); (iii) Prohibited or restricted under Title 2 of the SECURE Technology Act (Public Law 115-390 of 2018); or (iv) Prohibited or restricted under United States department of commerce regulations on Information and Communications and Services Supply Chain (15 CFR Part 7); and
(i) Produced, assembled, or based in an entity appearing on a sanctions list published under the authority of the United States department of the treasury, office of foreign assets control;
(ii) Prohibited or restricted under Section 889 of the National Defense Authorization Act ( 48 CFR 52.204-25 );
(iii) Prohibited or restricted under Title 2 of the SECURE Technology Act (Public Law 115-390 of 2018); or
(iv) Prohibited or restricted under United States department of commerce regulations on Information and Communications and Services Supply Chain (15 CFR Part 7); and
(B) The manufacturer of and custodian of any data collected by the surveillance camera shall: (i) Comply with § 55-10-302 ; (ii) Ensure that all aspects of the manufacturer's and custodian's data services, data retention, information technology, or other internal data management processes are contained and managed within the United States; and (iii) Ensure that all data and metadata collected by the surveillance camera are not used for commercial purposes or sold, other than sharing with other law enforcement agencies in the United States as authorized by law.
(i) Comply with § 55-10-302 ;
(ii) Ensure that all aspects of the manufacturer's and custodian's data services, data retention, information technology, or other internal data management processes are contained and managed within the United States; and
(iii) Ensure that all data and metadata collected by the surveillance camera are not used for commercial purposes or sold, other than sharing with other law enforcement agencies in the United States as authorized by law.
(4) At any time prior to, or following the department's approval of a surveillance camera under this subsection (f), the department may inspect the surveillance camera, components of the surveillance camera, and data collected by the surveillance camera in order to ensure compliance with this subsection (f).
(5) The department may consult with the department of safety, or any other state agency to review applications and determine compliance with this subsection (f).
(6) The department may revoke its approval and order the removal of surveillance cameras upon a determination that the manufacturer, surveillance camera, or custodian of data collected by a surveillance camera are not in compliance with this subsection (f).
(g) Prior to implementation of any new unmanned traffic enforcement camera used to enforce or monitor traffic violations, the local governing body shall conduct a traffic engineering study for the area being considered. The study shall follow standard engineering practices as determined by the Institute of Transportation Engineers (ITE) and shall be stamped by a professional engineer specializing in traffic engineering and licensed to practice in this state. A vendor of traffic enforcement camera systems shall not be allowed to conduct the traffic engineering study, or to participate in the selection of such traffic engineer, to document the need for a traffic enforcement camera.
(h) No citation shall be issued based solely upon evidence obtained from a traffic enforcement camera that has been installed to enforce or monitor traffic violations of § 55-8-110(a)(3) , or any municipal law or ordinance that mirrors, substantially duplicates or incorporates by cross-reference the language of § 55-8-110(a)(3) , unless the evidence collected shows the target vehicle with its front tire or tires before the stop line when the signal is red, and subsequently shows the same vehicle with its rear tire or tires past the stop line while the signal is red.
(i) A traffic enforcement camera system may be used to issue a traffic citation for an unlawful right turn on a red signal at an intersection that is clearly marked by a "No Turn on Red" sign erected by the responsible municipal or county government in the interest of traffic safety in accordance with § 55-8-110(a)(3)(A) . Any other traffic citation for failure to make a complete stop at a red signal before making a permitted right turn as provided by § 55-8-110(a)(3)(A) that is based solely upon evidence obtained from an unmanned traffic enforcement camera shall be deemed invalid.
(j) No more than one (1) citation shall be issued for each distinct and separate traffic offense in violation of a municipal ordinance or a traffic offense as provided in this chapter.
(k) A traffic citation that is based solely upon evidence obtained from an unmanned traffic enforcement camera shall be deemed invalid if the registration information of the motor vehicle for which such traffic citation is issued is not consistent with the evidence recorded by such enforcement camera.
(l) (1) Notwithstanding any law to the contrary, an unmanned traffic enforcement camera that monitors speed shall not be used to issue a citation to any driver for violating the speed limit on any public road or highway; provided, that this subsection ( l ) shall not apply to an unmanned traffic enforcement camera: (A) Within the designated distance of a marked school zone; or (B) On any S-curve of a public road or highway. (2) For purposes of this subsection ( l ), "S-curve" means a bend in a public road or highway in the shape of an "S" that inhibits a driver's full vision through the bend.
(1) Notwithstanding any law to the contrary, an unmanned traffic enforcement camera that monitors speed shall not be used to issue a citation to any driver for violating the speed limit on any public road or highway; provided, that this subsection ( l ) shall not apply to an unmanned traffic enforcement camera: (A) Within the designated distance of a marked school zone; or (B) On any S-curve of a public road or highway.
(A) Within the designated distance of a marked school zone; or
(B) On any S-curve of a public road or highway.
(2) For purposes of this subsection ( l ), "S-curve" means a bend in a public road or highway in the shape of an "S" that inhibits a driver's full vision through the bend.
(m) (1) For the purposes of this subsection (m): (A) "Consumer report" and "consumer reporting agency" have the same meanings ascribed to those terms by § 604 of the Fair Credit Reporting Act ( 15 U.S.C. § 1681(a) ); and (B) "Credit report" means any written, oral, or other communication of information, including a consumer report, by a consumer reporting agency bearing on a consumer's creditworthiness, credit standing or credit capacity, which is used or expected to be used or collected in whole or in part for the purpose of serving as a factor in establishing a consumer's eligibility for credit to be used primarily for personal, family, or household purposes. (2) No person having charge, custody of or control over any records or information regarding a violation of this section, including payments made pursuant to receipt of a notice of violation or a citation, whether timely or delinquent, shall disclose these records or information to a consumer reporting agency. In addition, no information regarding a violation shall be disclosed or identified in any credit report.
(1) For the purposes of this subsection (m): (A) "Consumer report" and "consumer reporting agency" have the same meanings ascribed to those terms by § 604 of the Fair Credit Reporting Act ( 15 U.S.C. § 1681(a) ); and (B) "Credit report" means any written, oral, or other communication of information, including a consumer report, by a consumer reporting agency bearing on a consumer's creditworthiness, credit standing or credit capacity, which is used or expected to be used or collected in whole or in part for the purpose of serving as a factor in establishing a consumer's eligibility for credit to be used primarily for personal, family, or household purposes.
(A) "Consumer report" and "consumer reporting agency" have the same meanings ascribed to those terms by § 604 of the Fair Credit Reporting Act ( 15 U.S.C. § 1681(a) ); and
(B) "Credit report" means any written, oral, or other communication of information, including a consumer report, by a consumer reporting agency bearing on a consumer's creditworthiness, credit standing or credit capacity, which is used or expected to be used or collected in whole or in part for the purpose of serving as a factor in establishing a consumer's eligibility for credit to be used primarily for personal, family, or household purposes.
(2) No person having charge, custody of or control over any records or information regarding a violation of this section, including payments made pursuant to receipt of a notice of violation or a citation, whether timely or delinquent, shall disclose these records or information to a consumer reporting agency. In addition, no information regarding a violation shall be disclosed or identified in any credit report.
(n) A local government shall include in any contract involving unmanned traffic enforcement cameras that the contract must conform to any changes in state law. New and existing contracts, as well as contract renewals occurring after July 1, 2012, shall contain a provision that the contract shall comply with all applicable revisions of state law.
Amended by 2023 Tenn. Acts, ch. 193, s 1, eff. 7/1/2023.
Amended by 2021 Tenn. Acts, ch. 450, s 2, eff. 5/14/2021.
Amended by 2016 Tenn. Acts, ch. 998, s 1, eff. 4/27/2016.
Amended by 2015 Tenn. Acts, ch. 468, s 1, eff. 7/1/2015.
Acts 2008 , ch. 962, § 1; 2009 , ch. 389, §§ 1, 2; 2011 , ch. 425, §§ 1-5, 9; 2012 , ch. 709, § 1; 2012 , ch. 751, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-18-103 — TN Code / Title 55 / Chapter 18 / Section 55-18-103
Certificates of authorization - Power of commissioner to grant and revoke - Rules and regulations - Similarity of names prohibited - Hearings
Status: in_force

(a) The commissioner has full and complete authority to grant certificates of authorization to automobile clubs and associations, to revoke or suspend the certificates in accordance with the Uniform Administrative Procedures Act, compiled in title 4, chapter 5, to promulgate rules and regulations, and to determine other services an automobile club or association may provide to its members. (b) In determining if a certificate of authorization shall be issued, the commissioner shall take into consideration, together with all other factors, the name of the automobile club or association and, if the name will interfere with the transactions of an automobile club or association already doing business in this state or is so similar to one already appropriated as to confuse or is likely to mislead the public in any respect, the commissioner shall refuse to issue a certificate of authorization. (c) The commissioner also has the authority to conduct hearings and to promulgate rules and regulations in accordance with the Uniform Administrative Procedures Act, for the administration of this chapter. Acts 1957, ch. 157, § 3; 1971, ch. 211, § 2; modified; T.C.A., §59-1803; Acts 2010 , ch. 1038, § 5.
(a) The commissioner has full and complete authority to grant certificates of authorization to automobile clubs and associations, to revoke or suspend the certificates in accordance with the Uniform Administrative Procedures Act, compiled in title 4, chapter 5, to promulgate rules and regulations, and to determine other services an automobile club or association may provide to its members.
(b) In determining if a certificate of authorization shall be issued, the commissioner shall take into consideration, together with all other factors, the name of the automobile club or association and, if the name will interfere with the transactions of an automobile club or association already doing business in this state or is so similar to one already appropriated as to confuse or is likely to mislead the public in any respect, the commissioner shall refuse to issue a certificate of authorization.
(c) The commissioner also has the authority to conduct hearings and to promulgate rules and regulations in accordance with the Uniform Administrative Procedures Act, for the administration of this chapter.
Acts 1957, ch. 157, § 3; 1971, ch. 211, § 2; modified; T.C.A., §59-1803; Acts 2010 , ch. 1038, § 5.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-17-109 — TN Code / Title 55 / Chapter 17 / Section 55-17-109
Activities for which license required - Exception
Status: in_force

(a) (1) It is unlawful for any person to engage in business as, or serve in the capacity of, or act as a manufacturer, distributor, factory branch, distributor branch, factory representative, distributor representative, motor vehicle dealer, motor vehicle salesperson or automobile auction without first obtaining a license as required in this part. (2) Notwithstanding any of this part to the contrary, an automobile auction license shall not be required for a motor vehicle dealer licensed to sell used motor vehicles if: (A) No more frequently than once a year, the dealer utilizes an auction format to sell used motor vehicles at the dealer's established place of business; (B) The auction is conducted by an auctioneer licensed by the Tennessee auctioneer commission; (C) The motor vehicles are not sold on consignment; (D) A total of not more than fifteen (15) motor vehicles are sold, each of which is at least four (4) model years old; and (E) The dealer provides at least ten (10) days' advance written notification to the commission describing the time and place of the auction as well as the motor vehicles to be sold in the auction. (b) It is a Class A misdemeanor for any person, firm, association, corporation, or trust to engage in business as, or act as, an automotive dismantler and recycler in this state without first obtaining a license therefor as provided in this part. (c) The commission shall neither create nor issue any category of license other than those categories specifically required by this chapter. It is unlawful for any person to commercially engage in any activity involving the distribution and/or sale of motor vehicles or recreational vehicles without first qualifying for and obtaining a license or licenses specifically authorized by this chapter unless the requirement for licensure is specifically exempted by statute. (d) Public automobile auctions shall be licensed and regulated by the Tennessee auctioneer commission and the Tennessee motor vehicle commission when engaged in the sale of motor vehicles. Acts 1955, ch. 79, § 4; 1959, ch. 25, § 4; 1963, ch. 109, § 3; 1977, ch. 162, § 19; 1977, ch. 450, § 2; T.C.A., § 59-1709; Acts 1989, ch. 591, §§ 1, 6; 1991, ch. 335, § 1; 1991, ch. 359, § 3; 2005, ch. 379, § 21; 2008, ch. 724, § 6.
(a) (1) It is unlawful for any person to engage in business as, or serve in the capacity of, or act as a manufacturer, distributor, factory branch, distributor branch, factory representative, distributor representative, motor vehicle dealer, motor vehicle salesperson or automobile auction without first obtaining a license as required in this part. (2) Notwithstanding any of this part to the contrary, an automobile auction license shall not be required for a motor vehicle dealer licensed to sell used motor vehicles if: (A) No more frequently than once a year, the dealer utilizes an auction format to sell used motor vehicles at the dealer's established place of business; (B) The auction is conducted by an auctioneer licensed by the Tennessee auctioneer commission; (C) The motor vehicles are not sold on consignment; (D) A total of not more than fifteen (15) motor vehicles are sold, each of which is at least four (4) model years old; and (E) The dealer provides at least ten (10) days' advance written notification to the commission describing the time and place of the auction as well as the motor vehicles to be sold in the auction.
(1) It is unlawful for any person to engage in business as, or serve in the capacity of, or act as a manufacturer, distributor, factory branch, distributor branch, factory representative, distributor representative, motor vehicle dealer, motor vehicle salesperson or automobile auction without first obtaining a license as required in this part.
(2) Notwithstanding any of this part to the contrary, an automobile auction license shall not be required for a motor vehicle dealer licensed to sell used motor vehicles if: (A) No more frequently than once a year, the dealer utilizes an auction format to sell used motor vehicles at the dealer's established place of business; (B) The auction is conducted by an auctioneer licensed by the Tennessee auctioneer commission; (C) The motor vehicles are not sold on consignment; (D) A total of not more than fifteen (15) motor vehicles are sold, each of which is at least four (4) model years old; and (E) The dealer provides at least ten (10) days' advance written notification to the commission describing the time and place of the auction as well as the motor vehicles to be sold in the auction.
(A) No more frequently than once a year, the dealer utilizes an auction format to sell used motor vehicles at the dealer's established place of business;
(B) The auction is conducted by an auctioneer licensed by the Tennessee auctioneer commission;
(C) The motor vehicles are not sold on consignment;
(D) A total of not more than fifteen (15) motor vehicles are sold, each of which is at least four (4) model years old; and
(E) The dealer provides at least ten (10) days' advance written notification to the commission describing the time and place of the auction as well as the motor vehicles to be sold in the auction.
(b) It is a Class A misdemeanor for any person, firm, association, corporation, or trust to engage in business as, or act as, an automotive dismantler and recycler in this state without first obtaining a license therefor as provided in this part.
(c) The commission shall neither create nor issue any category of license other than those categories specifically required by this chapter. It is unlawful for any person to commercially engage in any activity involving the distribution and/or sale of motor vehicles or recreational vehicles without first qualifying for and obtaining a license or licenses specifically authorized by this chapter unless the requirement for licensure is specifically exempted by statute.
(d) Public automobile auctions shall be licensed and regulated by the Tennessee auctioneer commission and the Tennessee motor vehicle commission when engaged in the sale of motor vehicles.
Acts 1955, ch. 79, § 4; 1959, ch. 25, § 4; 1963, ch. 109, § 3; 1977, ch. 162, § 19; 1977, ch. 450, § 2; T.C.A., § 59-1709; Acts 1989, ch. 591, §§ 1, 6; 1991, ch. 335, § 1; 1991, ch. 359, § 3; 2005, ch. 379, § 21; 2008, ch. 724, § 6.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-4-345 — TN Code / Title 55 / Chapter 4 / Section 55-4-345
Children and youth programs and support
Status: in_force

(a) (1) An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state, upon complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and the fee provided in § 55-4-204 , shall be issued a Dollywood Foundation new specialty earmarked license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c) . (2) The new specialty earmarked plates provided for in this subsection (a) must be designed in consultation with a representative from the Dollywood Foundation. (3) The funds produced from the sale of Dollywood Foundation new specialty earmarked license plates must be allocated to the Dollywood Foundation in accordance with § 55-4-301 . The funds must be used exclusively to support and promote childhood literacy through Dolly Parton's Imagination Library. (b) (1) An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state, upon complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and the fee provided for in § 55-4-204 , shall be issued a Youth Villages new specialty earmarked license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c) . (2) The new specialty earmarked license plates provided for in this subsection (b) must contain an appropriate logo or design representative of the mission of Youth Villages. The plates must be designed in consultation with the chief development officer of Youth Villages. (3) The funds produced from the sale of Youth Villages new specialty earmarked license plates must be allocated to Youth Villages, in accordance with § 55-4-301 . The funds must be used exclusively for Youth Villages' Transitional Living Program in Tennessee. (c) (1) An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state, upon complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and the fee provided for in § 55-4-204 , shall be issued a Big Brothers Big Sisters new specialty earmarked license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c) . (2) The new specialty earmarked plates provided for in this subsection (c) must be of an appropriate design representative of Big Brothers Big Sisters. The plates must be designed in consultation with a representative of Big Brothers Big Sisters Tennessee Alliance. (3) The funds produced from the sale of Big Brothers Big Sisters new specialty earmarked license plates must be allocated to Big Brothers Big Sisters Tennessee Alliance, in accordance with § 55-4-301 . The funds must be used exclusively for mentoring programs and services. (d) (1) An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state, upon complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and the fee provided for in § 55-4-204 , shall be issued an Isaiah 117 House new specialty earmarked license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c) . (2) The new specialty earmarked plates provided for in this subsection (d) must be of an appropriate design representative of Isaiah 117 House. The plates must be designed in consultation with a representative of Isaiah 117 House. (3) The funds produced from the sale of Isaiah 117 House new specialty earmarked license plates must be allocated to Isaiah 117 House, in accordance with § 55-4-301 . The funds must be used exclusively to help provide emotional and physical support in a loving home for children awaiting foster placement in Tennessee. (e) (1) An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state, upon complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and the fee provided for in § 55-4-204 , shall be issued an Improve Hendersonville new specialty earmarked license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c) . (2) The new specialty earmarked plates provided for in this subsection (e) must be designed in consultation with a representative of Improve Hendersonville. (3) The funds produced from the sale of Improve Hendersonville new specialty earmarked license plates must be allocated to Improve Hendersonville, in accordance with § 55-4-301 . The funds must be used exclusively to promote and support community and education initiatives sponsored by Improve Hendersonville, including the S'MORE summer reading camp for elementary school students. (f) (1) An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state, upon complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and the fee provided for in § 55-4-204 , shall be issued an Adaptive Racing new specialty earmarked license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c) . (2) The new specialty earmarked plates provided for in this subsection (f) must be designed in consultation with a representative of Addie Ray Racing, Inc. (3) The funds produced from the sale of Adaptive Racing new specialty earmarked license plates must be allocated to Addie Ray Racing, Inc., in accordance with § 55-4-301 . The funds must be used exclusively to support the organization's mission of assisting children with disabilities and special needs in participating in athletic races, including by providing adaptive race chairs and race entry fees. (g) (1) An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state, upon complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and the fee provided for in § 55-4-204 , must be issued a Stronger Than My Father new specialty earmarked license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c) . (2) The new specialty earmarked license plates provided for in this subsection (g) must be designed in consultation with a representative of Stronger Than My Father, Inc. (3) The funds produced from the sale of Stronger Than My Father new specialty earmarked license plates must be allocated to Stronger Than My Father, Inc., in accordance with § 55-4-301 . The funds must be used exclusively to support the organization's mission to provide before- and after-school programs for youth and family community and mentoring programs. (h) (1) An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state, upon complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and the fee provided for in § 55-4-204 , must be issued a Special Olympics new specialty earmarked license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c) . (2) The new specialty earmarked plates provided for in this subsection (h) must be designed in consultation with a representative of Special Olympics Tennessee. (3) The funds produced from the sale of Special Olympics new specialty earmarked license plates must be allocated to Special Olympics Tennessee in accordance with § 55-4-301 . The funds must be used exclusively to promote young athletes' programs in this state for members. (4) Notwithstanding § 55-4-202(k)(1) , the Special Olympics new specialty earmarked license plate authorized pursuant to this subsection (h) has until July 1, 2025, to meet the applicable minimum issuance requirements of § 55-4-202(k)(1) . (i) (1) An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state, upon complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and the fee provided for in § 55-4-204 , must be issued a Tennessee Councils of the Boy Scouts of America new specialty earmarked license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c) . (2) The new specialty earmarked plates provided for in this subsection (i) must contain the official logo or other design representative of the Boy Scouts of America. The plates must be designed in consultation with the Tennessee Councils of the Boy Scouts of America. (3) (A) The funds produced from the sale of Tennessee Councils of the Boy Scouts of America new specialty earmarked license plates must be allocated to the Middle Tennessee Council, Inc., Boy Scouts of America in accordance with § 55-4-301 . (B) The funds allocated pursuant to subdivision (i)(3)(A) must be distributed to each of the six (6) Tennessee Councils of the Boy Scouts of America in proportion to the number of new specialty earmarked license plates authorized by this subsection (i) that are sold in the counties that comprise each council, which are known as Cherokee Area Council, Chattanooga; Chickasaw Council, Memphis; Great Smoky Mountain Council, Knoxville; Middle Tennessee Council, Nashville; Sequoyah Council, Johnson City; and West Tennessee Area Council, Jackson. (C) The funds must be used exclusively to fund and support scouting programs and activities in this state. (D) Prior to initial issuance of new specialty earmarked license plates authorized by this subsection (i), each council of the Tennessee Councils of the Boy Scouts of America shall notify the department of each county comprising that council. (4) Notwithstanding § 55-4-202(k)(1) , the Tennessee Councils of the Boy Scouts of America new specialty earmarked license plate authorized pursuant to this subsection (i) has until July 1, 2025, to meet the applicable minimum issuance requirements of § 55-4-202(k)(1) . (j) (1) An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state, upon complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and the fee provided in § 55-4-204 , shall be issued a Child Development Services of Murfreesboro new specialty earmarked license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c) . (2) The new specialty earmarked plates provided for in this subsection (j) must be designed in consultation with a representative from Child Development Services of Murfreesboro, Inc. (3) The funds produced from the sale of Child Development Services of Murfreesboro new specialty earmarked license plates must be allocated to the Child Development Services of Murfreesboro, Inc., in accordance with § 55-4-301 . The funds must be used exclusively to provide educational programs and supportive services for children and young adults with disabilities. (k) (1) An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state, upon complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and the fee provided for in § 55-4-204 , shall be issued a Muse Knoxville new specialty earmarked license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c) . (2) The new specialty earmarked plates provided for in this subsection (k) must be designed in consultation with a representative of The Muse Knoxville. (3) The funds produced from the sale of Muse Knoxville new specialty earmarked license plates must be allocated to The Muse Knoxville, in accordance with § 55-4-301 . The funds must be used exclusively to offer educational programming and exhibits to children at no cost through the Muse for All scholarship. (l) (1) An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state, upon complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and the fee provided in § 55-4-204 , shall be issued a Tennessee Ronald McDonald House Charities new specialty earmarked license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c) . (2) The new specialty earmarked license plates authorized by this subsection ( l ) must be of an appropriate design or logo representative of the mission of the Ronald McDonald House. The plates must be designed in consultation with a representative from Southern Appalachian Ronald McDonald House Charities, Inc. (3) The funds produced from the sale of Tennessee Ronald McDonald House Charities new specialty earmarked license plates must be allocated to Southern Appalachian Ronald McDonald House Charities, Inc., in accordance with § 55-4-301 , and distributed to the Ronald McDonald Houses in Tennessee, including the Houses in Johnson City, the Greater Chattanooga area, Knoxville, Nashville, and Memphis. The funds must be used exclusively to allow families of sick children to stay at the House free of charge while they are in a local hospital. Amended by 2024 Tenn. Acts, ch. 804,s 47, eff. 7/1/2024. Amended by 2024 Tenn. Acts, ch. 804,s 44, eff. 7/1/2024. Amended by 2024 Tenn. Acts, ch. 804,s 34, eff. 7/1/2024. Amended by 2024 Tenn. Acts, ch. 804,s 30, eff. 7/1/2024. Amended by 2024 Tenn. Acts, ch. 804,s 26, eff. 7/1/2024. Added by 2023 Tenn. Acts, ch. 250, s 1, eff. 7/1/2023.
(a) (1) An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state, upon complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and the fee provided in § 55-4-204 , shall be issued a Dollywood Foundation new specialty earmarked license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c) . (2) The new specialty earmarked plates provided for in this subsection (a) must be designed in consultation with a representative from the Dollywood Foundation. (3) The funds produced from the sale of Dollywood Foundation new specialty earmarked license plates must be allocated to the Dollywood Foundation in accordance with § 55-4-301 . The funds must be used exclusively to support and promote childhood literacy through Dolly Parton's Imagination Library.
(1) An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state, upon complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and the fee provided in § 55-4-204 , shall be issued a Dollywood Foundation new specialty earmarked license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c) .
(2) The new specialty earmarked plates provided for in this subsection (a) must be designed in consultation with a representative from the Dollywood Foundation.
(3) The funds produced from the sale of Dollywood Foundation new specialty earmarked license plates must be allocated to the Dollywood Foundation in accordance with § 55-4-301 . The funds must be used exclusively to support and promote childhood literacy through Dolly Parton's Imagination Library.
(b) (1) An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state, upon complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and the fee provided for in § 55-4-204 , shall be issued a Youth Villages new specialty earmarked license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c) . (2) The new specialty earmarked license plates provided for in this subsection (b) must contain an appropriate logo or design representative of the mission of Youth Villages. The plates must be designed in consultation with the chief development officer of Youth Villages. (3) The funds produced from the sale of Youth Villages new specialty earmarked license plates must be allocated to Youth Villages, in accordance with § 55-4-301 . The funds must be used exclusively for Youth Villages' Transitional Living Program in Tennessee.
(1) An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state, upon complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and the fee provided for in § 55-4-204 , shall be issued a Youth Villages new specialty earmarked license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c) .
(2) The new specialty earmarked license plates provided for in this subsection (b) must contain an appropriate logo or design representative of the mission of Youth Villages. The plates must be designed in consultation with the chief development officer of Youth Villages.
(3) The funds produced from the sale of Youth Villages new specialty earmarked license plates must be allocated to Youth Villages, in accordance with § 55-4-301 . The funds must be used exclusively for Youth Villages' Transitional Living Program in Tennessee.
(c) (1) An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state, upon complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and the fee provided for in § 55-4-204 , shall be issued a Big Brothers Big Sisters new specialty earmarked license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c) . (2) The new specialty earmarked plates provided for in this subsection (c) must be of an appropriate design representative of Big Brothers Big Sisters. The plates must be designed in consultation with a representative of Big Brothers Big Sisters Tennessee Alliance. (3) The funds produced from the sale of Big Brothers Big Sisters new specialty earmarked license plates must be allocated to Big Brothers Big Sisters Tennessee Alliance, in accordance with § 55-4-301 . The funds must be used exclusively for mentoring programs and services.
(1) An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state, upon complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and the fee provided for in § 55-4-204 , shall be issued a Big Brothers Big Sisters new specialty earmarked license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c) .
(2) The new specialty earmarked plates provided for in this subsection (c) must be of an appropriate design representative of Big Brothers Big Sisters. The plates must be designed in consultation with a representative of Big Brothers Big Sisters Tennessee Alliance.
(3) The funds produced from the sale of Big Brothers Big Sisters new specialty earmarked license plates must be allocated to Big Brothers Big Sisters Tennessee Alliance, in accordance with § 55-4-301 . The funds must be used exclusively for mentoring programs and services.
(d) (1) An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state, upon complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and the fee provided for in § 55-4-204 , shall be issued an Isaiah 117 House new specialty earmarked license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c) . (2) The new specialty earmarked plates provided for in this subsection (d) must be of an appropriate design representative of Isaiah 117 House. The plates must be designed in consultation with a representative of Isaiah 117 House. (3) The funds produced from the sale of Isaiah 117 House new specialty earmarked license plates must be allocated to Isaiah 117 House, in accordance with § 55-4-301 . The funds must be used exclusively to help provide emotional and physical support in a loving home for children awaiting foster placement in Tennessee.
(1) An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state, upon complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and the fee provided for in § 55-4-204 , shall be issued an Isaiah 117 House new specialty earmarked license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c) .
(2) The new specialty earmarked plates provided for in this subsection (d) must be of an appropriate design representative of Isaiah 117 House. The plates must be designed in consultation with a representative of Isaiah 117 House.
(3) The funds produced from the sale of Isaiah 117 House new specialty earmarked license plates must be allocated to Isaiah 117 House, in accordance with § 55-4-301 . The funds must be used exclusively to help provide emotional and physical support in a loving home for children awaiting foster placement in Tennessee.
(e) (1) An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state, upon complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and the fee provided for in § 55-4-204 , shall be issued an Improve Hendersonville new specialty earmarked license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c) . (2) The new specialty earmarked plates provided for in this subsection (e) must be designed in consultation with a representative of Improve Hendersonville. (3) The funds produced from the sale of Improve Hendersonville new specialty earmarked license plates must be allocated to Improve Hendersonville, in accordance with § 55-4-301 . The funds must be used exclusively to promote and support community and education initiatives sponsored by Improve Hendersonville, including the S'MORE summer reading camp for elementary school students.
(1) An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state, upon complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and the fee provided for in § 55-4-204 , shall be issued an Improve Hendersonville new specialty earmarked license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c) .
(2) The new specialty earmarked plates provided for in this subsection (e) must be designed in consultation with a representative of Improve Hendersonville.
(3) The funds produced from the sale of Improve Hendersonville new specialty earmarked license plates must be allocated to Improve Hendersonville, in accordance with § 55-4-301 . The funds must be used exclusively to promote and support community and education initiatives sponsored by Improve Hendersonville, including the S'MORE summer reading camp for elementary school students.
(f) (1) An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state, upon complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and the fee provided for in § 55-4-204 , shall be issued an Adaptive Racing new specialty earmarked license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c) . (2) The new specialty earmarked plates provided for in this subsection (f) must be designed in consultation with a representative of Addie Ray Racing, Inc. (3) The funds produced from the sale of Adaptive Racing new specialty earmarked license plates must be allocated to Addie Ray Racing, Inc., in accordance with § 55-4-301 . The funds must be used exclusively to support the organization's mission of assisting children with disabilities and special needs in participating in athletic races, including by providing adaptive race chairs and race entry fees.
(1) An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state, upon complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and the fee provided for in § 55-4-204 , shall be issued an Adaptive Racing new specialty earmarked license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c) .
(2) The new specialty earmarked plates provided for in this subsection (f) must be designed in consultation with a representative of Addie Ray Racing, Inc.
(3) The funds produced from the sale of Adaptive Racing new specialty earmarked license plates must be allocated to Addie Ray Racing, Inc., in accordance with § 55-4-301 . The funds must be used exclusively to support the organization's mission of assisting children with disabilities and special needs in participating in athletic races, including by providing adaptive race chairs and race entry fees.
(g) (1) An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state, upon complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and the fee provided for in § 55-4-204 , must be issued a Stronger Than My Father new specialty earmarked license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c) . (2) The new specialty earmarked license plates provided for in this subsection (g) must be designed in consultation with a representative of Stronger Than My Father, Inc. (3) The funds produced from the sale of Stronger Than My Father new specialty earmarked license plates must be allocated to Stronger Than My Father, Inc., in accordance with § 55-4-301 . The funds must be used exclusively to support the organization's mission to provide before- and after-school programs for youth and family community and mentoring programs.
(1) An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state, upon complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and the fee provided for in § 55-4-204 , must be issued a Stronger Than My Father new specialty earmarked license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c) .
(2) The new specialty earmarked license plates provided for in this subsection (g) must be designed in consultation with a representative of Stronger Than My Father, Inc.
(3) The funds produced from the sale of Stronger Than My Father new specialty earmarked license plates must be allocated to Stronger Than My Father, Inc., in accordance with § 55-4-301 . The funds must be used exclusively to support the organization's mission to provide before- and after-school programs for youth and family community and mentoring programs.
(h) (1) An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state, upon complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and the fee provided for in § 55-4-204 , must be issued a Special Olympics new specialty earmarked license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c) . (2) The new specialty earmarked plates provided for in this subsection (h) must be designed in consultation with a representative of Special Olympics Tennessee. (3) The funds produced from the sale of Special Olympics new specialty earmarked license plates must be allocated to Special Olympics Tennessee in accordance with § 55-4-301 . The funds must be used exclusively to promote young athletes' programs in this state for members. (4) Notwithstanding § 55-4-202(k)(1) , the Special Olympics new specialty earmarked license plate authorized pursuant to this subsection (h) has until July 1, 2025, to meet the applicable minimum issuance requirements of § 55-4-202(k)(1) .
(1) An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state, upon complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and the fee provided for in § 55-4-204 , must be issued a Special Olympics new specialty earmarked license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c) .
(2) The new specialty earmarked plates provided for in this subsection (h) must be designed in consultation with a representative of Special Olympics Tennessee.
(3) The funds produced from the sale of Special Olympics new specialty earmarked license plates must be allocated to Special Olympics Tennessee in accordance with § 55-4-301 . The funds must be used exclusively to promote young athletes' programs in this state for members.
(4) Notwithstanding § 55-4-202(k)(1) , the Special Olympics new specialty earmarked license plate authorized pursuant to this subsection (h) has until July 1, 2025, to meet the applicable minimum issuance requirements of § 55-4-202(k)(1) .
(i) (1) An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state, upon complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and the fee provided for in § 55-4-204 , must be issued a Tennessee Councils of the Boy Scouts of America new specialty earmarked license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c) . (2) The new specialty earmarked plates provided for in this subsection (i) must contain the official logo or other design representative of the Boy Scouts of America. The plates must be designed in consultation with the Tennessee Councils of the Boy Scouts of America. (3) (A) The funds produced from the sale of Tennessee Councils of the Boy Scouts of America new specialty earmarked license plates must be allocated to the Middle Tennessee Council, Inc., Boy Scouts of America in accordance with § 55-4-301 . (B) The funds allocated pursuant to subdivision (i)(3)(A) must be distributed to each of the six (6) Tennessee Councils of the Boy Scouts of America in proportion to the number of new specialty earmarked license plates authorized by this subsection (i) that are sold in the counties that comprise each council, which are known as Cherokee Area Council, Chattanooga; Chickasaw Council, Memphis; Great Smoky Mountain Council, Knoxville; Middle Tennessee Council, Nashville; Sequoyah Council, Johnson City; and West Tennessee Area Council, Jackson. (C) The funds must be used exclusively to fund and support scouting programs and activities in this state. (D) Prior to initial issuance of new specialty earmarked license plates authorized by this subsection (i), each council of the Tennessee Councils of the Boy Scouts of America shall notify the department of each county comprising that council. (4) Notwithstanding § 55-4-202(k)(1) , the Tennessee Councils of the Boy Scouts of America new specialty earmarked license plate authorized pursuant to this subsection (i) has until July 1, 2025, to meet the applicable minimum issuance requirements of § 55-4-202(k)(1) .
(1) An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state, upon complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and the fee provided for in § 55-4-204 , must be issued a Tennessee Councils of the Boy Scouts of America new specialty earmarked license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c) .
(2) The new specialty earmarked plates provided for in this subsection (i) must contain the official logo or other design representative of the Boy Scouts of America. The plates must be designed in consultation with the Tennessee Councils of the Boy Scouts of America.
(3) (A) The funds produced from the sale of Tennessee Councils of the Boy Scouts of America new specialty earmarked license plates must be allocated to the Middle Tennessee Council, Inc., Boy Scouts of America in accordance with § 55-4-301 . (B) The funds allocated pursuant to subdivision (i)(3)(A) must be distributed to each of the six (6) Tennessee Councils of the Boy Scouts of America in proportion to the number of new specialty earmarked license plates authorized by this subsection (i) that are sold in the counties that comprise each council, which are known as Cherokee Area Council, Chattanooga; Chickasaw Council, Memphis; Great Smoky Mountain Council, Knoxville; Middle Tennessee Council, Nashville; Sequoyah Council, Johnson City; and West Tennessee Area Council, Jackson. (C) The funds must be used exclusively to fund and support scouting programs and activities in this state. (D) Prior to initial issuance of new specialty earmarked license plates authorized by this subsection (i), each council of the Tennessee Councils of the Boy Scouts of America shall notify the department of each county comprising that council.
(A) The funds produced from the sale of Tennessee Councils of the Boy Scouts of America new specialty earmarked license plates must be allocated to the Middle Tennessee Council, Inc., Boy Scouts of America in accordance with § 55-4-301 .
(B) The funds allocated pursuant to subdivision (i)(3)(A) must be distributed to each of the six (6) Tennessee Councils of the Boy Scouts of America in proportion to the number of new specialty earmarked license plates authorized by this subsection (i) that are sold in the counties that comprise each council, which are known as Cherokee Area Council, Chattanooga; Chickasaw Council, Memphis; Great Smoky Mountain Council, Knoxville; Middle Tennessee Council, Nashville; Sequoyah Council, Johnson City; and West Tennessee Area Council, Jackson.
(C) The funds must be used exclusively to fund and support scouting programs and activities in this state.
(D) Prior to initial issuance of new specialty earmarked license plates authorized by this subsection (i), each council of the Tennessee Councils of the Boy Scouts of America shall notify the department of each county comprising that council.
(4) Notwithstanding § 55-4-202(k)(1) , the Tennessee Councils of the Boy Scouts of America new specialty earmarked license plate authorized pursuant to this subsection (i) has until July 1, 2025, to meet the applicable minimum issuance requirements of § 55-4-202(k)(1) .
(j) (1) An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state, upon complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and the fee provided in § 55-4-204 , shall be issued a Child Development Services of Murfreesboro new specialty earmarked license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c) . (2) The new specialty earmarked plates provided for in this subsection (j) must be designed in consultation with a representative from Child Development Services of Murfreesboro, Inc. (3) The funds produced from the sale of Child Development Services of Murfreesboro new specialty earmarked license plates must be allocated to the Child Development Services of Murfreesboro, Inc., in accordance with § 55-4-301 . The funds must be used exclusively to provide educational programs and supportive services for children and young adults with disabilities.
(1) An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state, upon complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and the fee provided in § 55-4-204 , shall be issued a Child Development Services of Murfreesboro new specialty earmarked license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c) .
(2) The new specialty earmarked plates provided for in this subsection (j) must be designed in consultation with a representative from Child Development Services of Murfreesboro, Inc.
(3) The funds produced from the sale of Child Development Services of Murfreesboro new specialty earmarked license plates must be allocated to the Child Development Services of Murfreesboro, Inc., in accordance with § 55-4-301 . The funds must be used exclusively to provide educational programs and supportive services for children and young adults with disabilities.
(k) (1) An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state, upon complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and the fee provided for in § 55-4-204 , shall be issued a Muse Knoxville new specialty earmarked license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c) . (2) The new specialty earmarked plates provided for in this subsection (k) must be designed in consultation with a representative of The Muse Knoxville. (3) The funds produced from the sale of Muse Knoxville new specialty earmarked license plates must be allocated to The Muse Knoxville, in accordance with § 55-4-301 . The funds must be used exclusively to offer educational programming and exhibits to children at no cost through the Muse for All scholarship.
(1) An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state, upon complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and the fee provided for in § 55-4-204 , shall be issued a Muse Knoxville new specialty earmarked license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c) .
(2) The new specialty earmarked plates provided for in this subsection (k) must be designed in consultation with a representative of The Muse Knoxville.
(3) The funds produced from the sale of Muse Knoxville new specialty earmarked license plates must be allocated to The Muse Knoxville, in accordance with § 55-4-301 . The funds must be used exclusively to offer educational programming and exhibits to children at no cost through the Muse for All scholarship.
(l) (1) An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state, upon complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and the fee provided in § 55-4-204 , shall be issued a Tennessee Ronald McDonald House Charities new specialty earmarked license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c) . (2) The new specialty earmarked license plates authorized by this subsection ( l ) must be of an appropriate design or logo representative of the mission of the Ronald McDonald House. The plates must be designed in consultation with a representative from Southern Appalachian Ronald McDonald House Charities, Inc. (3) The funds produced from the sale of Tennessee Ronald McDonald House Charities new specialty earmarked license plates must be allocated to Southern Appalachian Ronald McDonald House Charities, Inc., in accordance with § 55-4-301 , and distributed to the Ronald McDonald Houses in Tennessee, including the Houses in Johnson City, the Greater Chattanooga area, Knoxville, Nashville, and Memphis. The funds must be used exclusively to allow families of sick children to stay at the House free of charge while they are in a local hospital.
(1) An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state, upon complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and the fee provided in § 55-4-204 , shall be issued a Tennessee Ronald McDonald House Charities new specialty earmarked license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c) .
(2) The new specialty earmarked license plates authorized by this subsection ( l ) must be of an appropriate design or logo representative of the mission of the Ronald McDonald House. The plates must be designed in consultation with a representative from Southern Appalachian Ronald McDonald House Charities, Inc.
(3) The funds produced from the sale of Tennessee Ronald McDonald House Charities new specialty earmarked license plates must be allocated to Southern Appalachian Ronald McDonald House Charities, Inc., in accordance with § 55-4-301 , and distributed to the Ronald McDonald Houses in Tennessee, including the Houses in Johnson City, the Greater Chattanooga area, Knoxville, Nashville, and Memphis. The funds must be used exclusively to allow families of sick children to stay at the House free of charge while they are in a local hospital.
Amended by 2024 Tenn. Acts, ch. 804,s 47, eff. 7/1/2024.
Amended by 2024 Tenn. Acts, ch. 804,s 44, eff. 7/1/2024.
Amended by 2024 Tenn. Acts, ch. 804,s 34, eff. 7/1/2024.
Amended by 2024 Tenn. Acts, ch. 804,s 30, eff. 7/1/2024.
Amended by 2024 Tenn. Acts, ch. 804,s 26, eff. 7/1/2024.
Added by 2023 Tenn. Acts, ch. 250, s 1, eff. 7/1/2023.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-4-334 — TN Code / Title 55 / Chapter 4 / Section 55-4-334
Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs)
Status: in_force

(a) (1) An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state, upon complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and the fee provided for in § 55-4-204 , shall be issued a Jackson State University new specialty earmarked license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c) . (2) The new specialty earmarked plates provided for in this subsection (a) must bear the official colors and logo of Jackson State University. The design of the plates must be approved by Jackson State University prior to production and afford the trademark protection as Jackson State University requires as otherwise permitted by law. All uses of the colors and logo of Jackson State University inure to the benefit of Jackson State University. (3) The funds produced from the sale of Jackson State University new specialty earmarked license plates must be allocated to the JSUNAA-Memphis Alumni Chapter, in accordance with § 55-4-301 . The funds must be used exclusively for its scholarship program and other general alumni association activities. (b) (1) An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state, upon complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and the fee provided for in § 55-4-204 , shall be issued a Hampton University new specialty earmarked license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c) . (2) The new specialty earmarked plates provided for in this subsection (b) must contain the colors and logo of Hampton University and include any other appropriate design representative of the university. The plates must be designed in consultation with a representative from the Chattanooga chapter of the National Hampton Alumni Association (NHAA), Inc. (3) The funds produced from the sale of Hampton University new specialty earmarked license plates must be allocated to the National Hampton Alumni Association, Inc., in accordance with § 55-4-301 . The funds must be used exclusively for funding scholarships for students from Tennessee. (c) (1) An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state, upon complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and the fee provided for in § 55-4-204 , shall be issued a Fisk University new specialty earmarked license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c) . (2) The new specialty earmarked plates provided for in this subsection (c) must contain the colors and logo of Fisk University and include any other appropriate design representative of the university. The plates must be designed in consultation with a representative from Fisk University. (3) The funds produced from the sale of Fisk University new specialty earmarked license plates must be allocated to Fisk University, in accordance with § 55-4-301 . The funds must be used exclusively to support the university and its mission to emphasize the discovery and advancement of knowledge through education. (4) Notwithstanding § 55-4-202(k)(1) , the Fisk University license plate provided for in this subsection (c) is deemed a collegiate plate for purposes of minimum order requirements under § 55-4-202 . (d) Alcorn State University [Obsolete. See Compiler's Notes.] Added by 2023 Tenn. Acts, ch. 250, s 1, eff. 7/1/2023.
(a) (1) An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state, upon complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and the fee provided for in § 55-4-204 , shall be issued a Jackson State University new specialty earmarked license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c) . (2) The new specialty earmarked plates provided for in this subsection (a) must bear the official colors and logo of Jackson State University. The design of the plates must be approved by Jackson State University prior to production and afford the trademark protection as Jackson State University requires as otherwise permitted by law. All uses of the colors and logo of Jackson State University inure to the benefit of Jackson State University. (3) The funds produced from the sale of Jackson State University new specialty earmarked license plates must be allocated to the JSUNAA-Memphis Alumni Chapter, in accordance with § 55-4-301 . The funds must be used exclusively for its scholarship program and other general alumni association activities.
(1) An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state, upon complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and the fee provided for in § 55-4-204 , shall be issued a Jackson State University new specialty earmarked license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c) .
(2) The new specialty earmarked plates provided for in this subsection (a) must bear the official colors and logo of Jackson State University. The design of the plates must be approved by Jackson State University prior to production and afford the trademark protection as Jackson State University requires as otherwise permitted by law. All uses of the colors and logo of Jackson State University inure to the benefit of Jackson State University.
(3) The funds produced from the sale of Jackson State University new specialty earmarked license plates must be allocated to the JSUNAA-Memphis Alumni Chapter, in accordance with § 55-4-301 . The funds must be used exclusively for its scholarship program and other general alumni association activities.
(b) (1) An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state, upon complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and the fee provided for in § 55-4-204 , shall be issued a Hampton University new specialty earmarked license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c) . (2) The new specialty earmarked plates provided for in this subsection (b) must contain the colors and logo of Hampton University and include any other appropriate design representative of the university. The plates must be designed in consultation with a representative from the Chattanooga chapter of the National Hampton Alumni Association (NHAA), Inc. (3) The funds produced from the sale of Hampton University new specialty earmarked license plates must be allocated to the National Hampton Alumni Association, Inc., in accordance with § 55-4-301 . The funds must be used exclusively for funding scholarships for students from Tennessee.
(1) An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state, upon complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and the fee provided for in § 55-4-204 , shall be issued a Hampton University new specialty earmarked license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c) .
(2) The new specialty earmarked plates provided for in this subsection (b) must contain the colors and logo of Hampton University and include any other appropriate design representative of the university. The plates must be designed in consultation with a representative from the Chattanooga chapter of the National Hampton Alumni Association (NHAA), Inc.
(3) The funds produced from the sale of Hampton University new specialty earmarked license plates must be allocated to the National Hampton Alumni Association, Inc., in accordance with § 55-4-301 . The funds must be used exclusively for funding scholarships for students from Tennessee.
(c) (1) An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state, upon complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and the fee provided for in § 55-4-204 , shall be issued a Fisk University new specialty earmarked license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c) . (2) The new specialty earmarked plates provided for in this subsection (c) must contain the colors and logo of Fisk University and include any other appropriate design representative of the university. The plates must be designed in consultation with a representative from Fisk University. (3) The funds produced from the sale of Fisk University new specialty earmarked license plates must be allocated to Fisk University, in accordance with § 55-4-301 . The funds must be used exclusively to support the university and its mission to emphasize the discovery and advancement of knowledge through education. (4) Notwithstanding § 55-4-202(k)(1) , the Fisk University license plate provided for in this subsection (c) is deemed a collegiate plate for purposes of minimum order requirements under § 55-4-202 .
(1) An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state, upon complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and the fee provided for in § 55-4-204 , shall be issued a Fisk University new specialty earmarked license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c) .
(2) The new specialty earmarked plates provided for in this subsection (c) must contain the colors and logo of Fisk University and include any other appropriate design representative of the university. The plates must be designed in consultation with a representative from Fisk University.
(3) The funds produced from the sale of Fisk University new specialty earmarked license plates must be allocated to Fisk University, in accordance with § 55-4-301 . The funds must be used exclusively to support the university and its mission to emphasize the discovery and advancement of knowledge through education.
(4) Notwithstanding § 55-4-202(k)(1) , the Fisk University license plate provided for in this subsection (c) is deemed a collegiate plate for purposes of minimum order requirements under § 55-4-202 .
(d) Alcorn State University [Obsolete. See Compiler's Notes.]
Added by 2023 Tenn. Acts, ch. 250, s 1, eff. 7/1/2023.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-50-414 — TN Code / Title 55 / Chapter 50 / Section 55-50-414
Farm-related service industry employee restricted commercial driver license
Status: in_force

(a) The commissioner may issue a farm-related service industry employee restricted commercial driver license to a person who: (1) Is an employee of: (A) An agri-chemical business; (B) A custom harvester; (C) A farm retail outlet or supplier; or (D) A livestock feeder; (2) Satisfies all of the requirements for issuance of a commercial driver license under this chapter other than the written and driving test requirement in § 55-50-404(b) ; (3) Holds a valid driver license; (4) Has at least one (1) year of driving experience as a licensed driver; and (5) Has a good driving history, as defined in subsection (b), for: (A) The person's entire driving history, if the person only has between one (1) and two (2) years of driving experience as a licensed driver; or (B) The two (2) most recent years of the person's driving history, if the person has more than two (2) years of driving experience as a licensed driver. (b) For purposes of subdivision (a)(5), a person has a good driving history, if the person has not: (1) Had more than one (1) driver license; (2) Had any driver license suspended, revoked, or cancelled; (3) Been convicted of any offense or serious traffic violation that is a disqualifying offense or violation under § 55-50-405(f) ; (4) Been convicted of any law or ordinance relating to motor vehicle traffic control, other than a parking violation, arising in connection with any traffic accident; or (5) Been at fault in a motor vehicle accident. (c) A farm-related service industry employee restricted commercial driver license entitles the licensee to operate commercial motor vehicles other than Class A vehicles. (d) A farm-related service industry employee restricted commercial driver license authorizes operation of a commercial motor vehicle only during the seasonal period or periods prescribed by the commissioner and stated on the license; provided, that the total number of calendar days in any twelve-month period for which the farm-related service industry employee restricted commercial driver license authorizes operation of a commercial motor vehicle must not exceed one hundred eighty (180) days. A farm-related service industry employee restricted commercial driver license is valid for operation of a commercial motor vehicle during the seasonal period or periods for which it has been validated and must be revalidated annually by the department for each successive seasonal period or periods for which commercial vehicle operation is sought. A farm-related service industry employee restricted commercial driver license authorizes operation of noncommercial motor vehicles at any time, unless it has been suspended, revoked, or cancelled, or has expired. (e) A farm-related service industry employee restricted commercial driver license does not authorize operation of a commercial motor vehicle during any period when the licensee is not employed by an entity described in subdivision (a)(1), nor if when operation of the commercial motor vehicle is not directly related to the licensee's employment. (f) A farm-related service industry employee restricted commercial driver license does not authorize the licensee to operate any vehicle transporting hazardous materials, except that a licensee may drive a vehicle transporting: (1) Diesel fuel in quantities of one thousand gallons (1,000 gals.), or less; (2) Liquid fertilizers in a vehicle or implement of husbandry with a total capacity of three thousand gallons (3,000 gals.) or less; or (3) Solid fertilizers that are not transported with any organic substance. (g) A farm-related service industry employee restricted commercial driver license authorizes the operation of a commercial motor vehicle only within one hundred fifty miles (150 mi.) of the place of business of the licensee's employer or the farm being served. (h) A person may not be the holder of a farm-related service industry employee restricted commercial driver license and an unrestricted commercial driver license at the same time. Added by 2019 Tenn. Acts, ch. 466, s 1, eff. 1/1/2020.
(a) The commissioner may issue a farm-related service industry employee restricted commercial driver license to a person who: (1) Is an employee of: (A) An agri-chemical business; (B) A custom harvester; (C) A farm retail outlet or supplier; or (D) A livestock feeder; (2) Satisfies all of the requirements for issuance of a commercial driver license under this chapter other than the written and driving test requirement in § 55-50-404(b) ; (3) Holds a valid driver license; (4) Has at least one (1) year of driving experience as a licensed driver; and (5) Has a good driving history, as defined in subsection (b), for: (A) The person's entire driving history, if the person only has between one (1) and two (2) years of driving experience as a licensed driver; or (B) The two (2) most recent years of the person's driving history, if the person has more than two (2) years of driving experience as a licensed driver.
(1) Is an employee of: (A) An agri-chemical business; (B) A custom harvester; (C) A farm retail outlet or supplier; or (D) A livestock feeder;
(A) An agri-chemical business;
(B) A custom harvester;
(C) A farm retail outlet or supplier; or
(D) A livestock feeder;
(2) Satisfies all of the requirements for issuance of a commercial driver license under this chapter other than the written and driving test requirement in § 55-50-404(b) ;
(3) Holds a valid driver license;
(4) Has at least one (1) year of driving experience as a licensed driver; and
(5) Has a good driving history, as defined in subsection (b), for: (A) The person's entire driving history, if the person only has between one (1) and two (2) years of driving experience as a licensed driver; or (B) The two (2) most recent years of the person's driving history, if the person has more than two (2) years of driving experience as a licensed driver.
(A) The person's entire driving history, if the person only has between one (1) and two (2) years of driving experience as a licensed driver; or
(B) The two (2) most recent years of the person's driving history, if the person has more than two (2) years of driving experience as a licensed driver.
(b) For purposes of subdivision (a)(5), a person has a good driving history, if the person has not: (1) Had more than one (1) driver license; (2) Had any driver license suspended, revoked, or cancelled; (3) Been convicted of any offense or serious traffic violation that is a disqualifying offense or violation under § 55-50-405(f) ; (4) Been convicted of any law or ordinance relating to motor vehicle traffic control, other than a parking violation, arising in connection with any traffic accident; or (5) Been at fault in a motor vehicle accident.
(1) Had more than one (1) driver license;
(2) Had any driver license suspended, revoked, or cancelled;
(3) Been convicted of any offense or serious traffic violation that is a disqualifying offense or violation under § 55-50-405(f) ;
(4) Been convicted of any law or ordinance relating to motor vehicle traffic control, other than a parking violation, arising in connection with any traffic accident; or
(5) Been at fault in a motor vehicle accident.
(c) A farm-related service industry employee restricted commercial driver license entitles the licensee to operate commercial motor vehicles other than Class A vehicles.
(d) A farm-related service industry employee restricted commercial driver license authorizes operation of a commercial motor vehicle only during the seasonal period or periods prescribed by the commissioner and stated on the license; provided, that the total number of calendar days in any twelve-month period for which the farm-related service industry employee restricted commercial driver license authorizes operation of a commercial motor vehicle must not exceed one hundred eighty (180) days. A farm-related service industry employee restricted commercial driver license is valid for operation of a commercial motor vehicle during the seasonal period or periods for which it has been validated and must be revalidated annually by the department for each successive seasonal period or periods for which commercial vehicle operation is sought. A farm-related service industry employee restricted commercial driver license authorizes operation of noncommercial motor vehicles at any time, unless it has been suspended, revoked, or cancelled, or has expired.
(e) A farm-related service industry employee restricted commercial driver license does not authorize operation of a commercial motor vehicle during any period when the licensee is not employed by an entity described in subdivision (a)(1), nor if when operation of the commercial motor vehicle is not directly related to the licensee's employment.
(f) A farm-related service industry employee restricted commercial driver license does not authorize the licensee to operate any vehicle transporting hazardous materials, except that a licensee may drive a vehicle transporting: (1) Diesel fuel in quantities of one thousand gallons (1,000 gals.), or less; (2) Liquid fertilizers in a vehicle or implement of husbandry with a total capacity of three thousand gallons (3,000 gals.) or less; or (3) Solid fertilizers that are not transported with any organic substance.
(1) Diesel fuel in quantities of one thousand gallons (1,000 gals.), or less;
(2) Liquid fertilizers in a vehicle or implement of husbandry with a total capacity of three thousand gallons (3,000 gals.) or less; or
(3) Solid fertilizers that are not transported with any organic substance.
(g) A farm-related service industry employee restricted commercial driver license authorizes the operation of a commercial motor vehicle only within one hundred fifty miles (150 mi.) of the place of business of the licensee's employer or the farm being served.
(h) A person may not be the holder of a farm-related service industry employee restricted commercial driver license and an unrestricted commercial driver license at the same time.
Added by 2019 Tenn. Acts, ch. 466, s 1, eff. 1/1/2020.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-8-171 — TN Code / Title 55 / Chapter 8 / Section 55-8-171
Operation of bicycles and play vehicles - Penalty - Effect of regulations
Status: in_force

(a) It is a Class C misdemeanor for any person to do any act forbidden or fail to perform any act required in §§ 55-8-171 - 55-8-177. (b) The parent of any child and the guardian of any ward shall not authorize or knowingly permit that child or ward to violate any of this chapter and chapter 10, parts 1-5 of this title. (c) The regulations applicable to bicycles and electric bicycles shall apply whenever a bicycle or electric bicycle is operated upon any highway or upon any path set aside for the exclusive use of bicycles subject to those exceptions stated herein. (d) This section and §§ 55-8-172 - 55-8-177 are applicable to electric bicycles as defined in § 55-8-301 . Amended by 2016 Tenn. Acts, ch. 823, s 11, eff. 7/1/2016. Amended by 2016 Tenn. Acts, ch. 823, s 10, eff. 7/1/2016. Acts 1955, ch. 329, § 71; T.C.A., § 59-872; Acts 1989, ch. 591, § 113.
(a) It is a Class C misdemeanor for any person to do any act forbidden or fail to perform any act required in §§ 55-8-171 - 55-8-177.
(b) The parent of any child and the guardian of any ward shall not authorize or knowingly permit that child or ward to violate any of this chapter and chapter 10, parts 1-5 of this title.
(c) The regulations applicable to bicycles and electric bicycles shall apply whenever a bicycle or electric bicycle is operated upon any highway or upon any path set aside for the exclusive use of bicycles subject to those exceptions stated herein.
(d) This section and §§ 55-8-172 - 55-8-177 are applicable to electric bicycles as defined in § 55-8-301 .
Amended by 2016 Tenn. Acts, ch. 823, s 11, eff. 7/1/2016.
Amended by 2016 Tenn. Acts, ch. 823, s 10, eff. 7/1/2016.
Acts 1955, ch. 329, § 71; T.C.A., § 59-872; Acts 1989, ch. 591, § 113.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-50-407 — TN Code / Title 55 / Chapter 50 / Section 55-50-407
Commercial driver license
Status: in_force

(a) The commercial driver license shall be, to the maximum extent practicable, tamper proof, and shall include, but not be limited to, the following information: (1) The full legal name and current legal residential address of the person including the street address and number or route and box number (or post office box number if the person has no bona fide residential street address); (2) A physical description of the person including sex, height, weight, hair and eye colors; (3) A number or identifier deemed appropriate by the department, which number shall not be the person's social security number unless the applicant specifically requests in writing that the social security number be displayed on the license; (4) The class or type of commercial motor vehicle or vehicles that the person is authorized to operate; (5) The date of issuance and the date of expiration; (6) The name of this state; (7) Any restrictions that may apply; (8) Whether the license is an original or duplicate; (9) Organ donor information; (10) Endorsements under which the person is authorized to operate a commercial motor vehicle; (11) Visible full face photograph; and (12) Any other information required by the secretary or deemed appropriate by the department. (b) Not more than sixty (60) days before issuing a commercial driver license, the department shall notify the commercial driver license information system (CDLIS) of the proposed issuance of the license and provide the information required to ensure identification of the person. The department shall also request all information pertaining to the driving record of the person from all other states in which the person has been licensed to drive during the immediate preceding ten (10) years, and from the National Driver Register. (c) Within ten (10) days after issuing a commercial driver license, the department shall notify the commercial driver license information system of that fact, providing all information required to ensure identification of the person. (d) The department shall maintain copies of all documents including, but not limited to, the application, commercial driver license issued, and any other documents pertaining to the licensee. (e) Within ten (10) days after suspending, revoking or cancelling a commercial driver license, the department shall notify the commercial driver license information system of that disqualification if the sanction is for a period of sixty (60) days or more. (f) An applicant for renewal of a CDL whose license has been expired for more than one (1) renewal cycle as set forth in § 55-50-337 must successfully complete all appropriate examinations for the issuance of a new CDL. Amended by 2022 Tenn. Acts, ch. 992, s 10, eff. 7/1/2022. Amended by 2021 Tenn. Acts, ch. 219, s 7, eff. 4/22/2021. Acts 1937, ch. 90, § 5; impl. am. Acts 1939, ch. 205, §§ 2, 3; C. Supp. 1950, § 2715.13 (Williams, § 2715.18); Acts 1973, ch. 224, §§ 1, 2; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 59-706; Acts 1988, ch. 584, § 6; T.C.A., §§ 55-7-106 , 55-7-407; Acts 1989, ch. 341, § 6; 1999, ch. 44, § 2; 2009 , ch. 321, §§ 25, 26.
(a) The commercial driver license shall be, to the maximum extent practicable, tamper proof, and shall include, but not be limited to, the following information: (1) The full legal name and current legal residential address of the person including the street address and number or route and box number (or post office box number if the person has no bona fide residential street address); (2) A physical description of the person including sex, height, weight, hair and eye colors; (3) A number or identifier deemed appropriate by the department, which number shall not be the person's social security number unless the applicant specifically requests in writing that the social security number be displayed on the license; (4) The class or type of commercial motor vehicle or vehicles that the person is authorized to operate; (5) The date of issuance and the date of expiration; (6) The name of this state; (7) Any restrictions that may apply; (8) Whether the license is an original or duplicate; (9) Organ donor information; (10) Endorsements under which the person is authorized to operate a commercial motor vehicle; (11) Visible full face photograph; and (12) Any other information required by the secretary or deemed appropriate by the department.
(1) The full legal name and current legal residential address of the person including the street address and number or route and box number (or post office box number if the person has no bona fide residential street address);
(2) A physical description of the person including sex, height, weight, hair and eye colors;
(3) A number or identifier deemed appropriate by the department, which number shall not be the person's social security number unless the applicant specifically requests in writing that the social security number be displayed on the license;
(4) The class or type of commercial motor vehicle or vehicles that the person is authorized to operate;
(5) The date of issuance and the date of expiration;
(6) The name of this state;
(7) Any restrictions that may apply;
(8) Whether the license is an original or duplicate;
(9) Organ donor information;
(10) Endorsements under which the person is authorized to operate a commercial motor vehicle;
(11) Visible full face photograph; and
(12) Any other information required by the secretary or deemed appropriate by the department.
(b) Not more than sixty (60) days before issuing a commercial driver license, the department shall notify the commercial driver license information system (CDLIS) of the proposed issuance of the license and provide the information required to ensure identification of the person. The department shall also request all information pertaining to the driving record of the person from all other states in which the person has been licensed to drive during the immediate preceding ten (10) years, and from the National Driver Register.
(c) Within ten (10) days after issuing a commercial driver license, the department shall notify the commercial driver license information system of that fact, providing all information required to ensure identification of the person.
(d) The department shall maintain copies of all documents including, but not limited to, the application, commercial driver license issued, and any other documents pertaining to the licensee.
(e) Within ten (10) days after suspending, revoking or cancelling a commercial driver license, the department shall notify the commercial driver license information system of that disqualification if the sanction is for a period of sixty (60) days or more.
(f) An applicant for renewal of a CDL whose license has been expired for more than one (1) renewal cycle as set forth in § 55-50-337 must successfully complete all appropriate examinations for the issuance of a new CDL.
Amended by 2022 Tenn. Acts, ch. 992, s 10, eff. 7/1/2022.
Amended by 2021 Tenn. Acts, ch. 219, s 7, eff. 4/22/2021.
Acts 1937, ch. 90, § 5; impl. am. Acts 1939, ch. 205, §§ 2, 3; C. Supp. 1950, § 2715.13 (Williams, § 2715.18); Acts 1973, ch. 224, §§ 1, 2; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 59-706; Acts 1988, ch. 584, § 6; T.C.A., §§ 55-7-106 , 55-7-407; Acts 1989, ch. 341, § 6; 1999, ch. 44, § 2; 2009 , ch. 321, §§ 25, 26.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-23-101 — TN Code / Title 55 / Chapter 23 / Section 55-23-101
[Repealed]
Status: repealed

Repealed by 2024 Tenn. Acts, ch. 1017,s 2, eff. 7/1/2024. Acts 1980, ch. 779, § 1.
Repealed by 2024 Tenn. Acts, ch. 1017,s 2, eff. 7/1/2024.
Acts 1980, ch. 779, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-8-131 — TN Code / Title 55 / Chapter 8 / Section 55-8-131
Vehicle entering highway from drive, private road, or private driveway
Status: in_force

The driver of a vehicle about to enter or cross a highway from a drive, private road, or private driveway shall yield the right-of-way to all vehicles approaching on the highway. As used in this section, "drive" has the same meaning as defined in § 55-8-128 . Amended by 2015 Tenn. Acts, ch. 79,s 6, eff. 7/1/2015. Acts 1955, ch. 329, § 30; T.C.A., § 59-831.
The driver of a vehicle about to enter or cross a highway from a drive, private road, or private driveway shall yield the right-of-way to all vehicles approaching on the highway. As used in this section, "drive" has the same meaning as defined in § 55-8-128 .
Amended by 2015 Tenn. Acts, ch. 79,s 6, eff. 7/1/2015.
Acts 1955, ch. 329, § 30; T.C.A., § 59-831.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-10-202 — TN Code / Title 55 / Chapter 10 / Section 55-10-202
Offenses by persons owning or controlling vehicles
Status: in_force

(a) It is unlawful for the owner, or any other person, employing or otherwise directing the driver of any vehicle to require or knowingly to permit the operation of the vehicle upon a highway in any manner contrary to law. (b) A violation of this section is a Class C misdemeanor. Acts 1955, ch. 329, § 94; T.C.A., § 59-1017; Acts 1989, ch. 591, § 113.
(a) It is unlawful for the owner, or any other person, employing or otherwise directing the driver of any vehicle to require or knowingly to permit the operation of the vehicle upon a highway in any manner contrary to law.
(b) A violation of this section is a Class C misdemeanor.
Acts 1955, ch. 329, § 94; T.C.A., § 59-1017; Acts 1989, ch. 591, § 113.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-51-104 — TN Code / Title 55 / Chapter 51 / Section 55-51-104
Motorcycle rider safety fund
Status: in_force

(a) The motorcycle rider safety fund is established in the state treasury and, subject to the general appropriations act, shall be available on a continual basis to the department which shall administer the moneys. Moneys from the fund made available to the department shall only be used for administration of the motorcycle rider education program and for expenses relating to the program including, but not limited to, instructor training, licensing improvement, alcohol and drug education, public awareness, a driver improvement program for motorcyclists, technical assistance, program promotion, and other motorcycle safety programs. Funds may also be used for reimbursement of organizations with course sites. The department shall establish standards for disbursements of funds. (b) Two dollars ($2.00) of the annual registration fee for each registered motorcycle shall be credited to the fund as established in subsection (a). (c) One dollar ($1.00) of the application fee for a motorcycle operator learner's permit shall be credited to the fund as established in subsection (a). (d) One dollar ($1.00) of the fee for each original motorcycle operator's license or endorsement and for each renewal shall be credited to the fund as established in subsection (a). Acts 1987, ch. 446, § 4; T.C.A., § 55-25-104 .
(a) The motorcycle rider safety fund is established in the state treasury and, subject to the general appropriations act, shall be available on a continual basis to the department which shall administer the moneys. Moneys from the fund made available to the department shall only be used for administration of the motorcycle rider education program and for expenses relating to the program including, but not limited to, instructor training, licensing improvement, alcohol and drug education, public awareness, a driver improvement program for motorcyclists, technical assistance, program promotion, and other motorcycle safety programs. Funds may also be used for reimbursement of organizations with course sites. The department shall establish standards for disbursements of funds.
(b) Two dollars ($2.00) of the annual registration fee for each registered motorcycle shall be credited to the fund as established in subsection (a).
(c) One dollar ($1.00) of the application fee for a motorcycle operator learner's permit shall be credited to the fund as established in subsection (a).
(d) One dollar ($1.00) of the fee for each original motorcycle operator's license or endorsement and for each renewal shall be credited to the fund as established in subsection (a).
Acts 1987, ch. 446, § 4; T.C.A., § 55-25-104 .
Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-12-307 — TN Code / Title 55 / Chapter 12 / Section 55-12-307
Indemnification
Status: in_force

Each car sharing program agreement made in this state must disclose to the shared vehicle owner and the shared vehicle driver: (1) Any right of the peer-to-peer car sharing program to seek indemnification from the shared vehicle owner or the shared vehicle driver for economic loss sustained by the peer-to-peer car sharing program resulting from a breach of the terms and conditions of the car sharing program agreement; (2) That a motor vehicle liability insurance policy issued to the shared vehicle owner for the shared vehicle or to the shared vehicle driver does not provide a defense or indemnification for any claim asserted by the peer-to-peer car sharing program; (3) That the peer-to-peer car sharing program's insurance coverage on the shared vehicle owner and the shared vehicle driver is in effect only during each car sharing period and that, for any use of the shared vehicle by the shared vehicle driver after the car sharing termination time, the shared vehicle driver and the shared vehicle owner may not have insurance coverage; (4) The daily rate, fees, and if applicable, any insurance or protection package costs that are charged to the shared vehicle owner or the shared vehicle driver; (5) That the shared vehicle owner's motor vehicle liability insurance may not provide coverage for a shared vehicle; (6) An emergency telephone number to personnel capable of fielding roadside assistance and other customer service inquiries; and (7) Whether there are conditions under which a shared vehicle driver must maintain a personal automobile insurance policy with certain applicable coverage limits on a primary basis in order to book a shared motor vehicle. Added by 2020 Tenn. Acts, ch. 796, s 5, eff. 7/15/2020.
Each car sharing program agreement made in this state must disclose to the shared vehicle owner and the shared vehicle driver:
(1) Any right of the peer-to-peer car sharing program to seek indemnification from the shared vehicle owner or the shared vehicle driver for economic loss sustained by the peer-to-peer car sharing program resulting from a breach of the terms and conditions of the car sharing program agreement;
(2) That a motor vehicle liability insurance policy issued to the shared vehicle owner for the shared vehicle or to the shared vehicle driver does not provide a defense or indemnification for any claim asserted by the peer-to-peer car sharing program;
(3) That the peer-to-peer car sharing program's insurance coverage on the shared vehicle owner and the shared vehicle driver is in effect only during each car sharing period and that, for any use of the shared vehicle by the shared vehicle driver after the car sharing termination time, the shared vehicle driver and the shared vehicle owner may not have insurance coverage;
(4) The daily rate, fees, and if applicable, any insurance or protection package costs that are charged to the shared vehicle owner or the shared vehicle driver;
(5) That the shared vehicle owner's motor vehicle liability insurance may not provide coverage for a shared vehicle;
(6) An emergency telephone number to personnel capable of fielding roadside assistance and other customer service inquiries; and
(7) Whether there are conditions under which a shared vehicle driver must maintain a personal automobile insurance policy with certain applicable coverage limits on a primary basis in order to book a shared motor vehicle.
Added by 2020 Tenn. Acts, ch. 796, s 5, eff. 7/15/2020.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-2-103 — TN Code / Title 55 / Chapter 2 / Section 55-2-103
Powers and duties of commissioner generally - Rules and regulations
Status: in_force

(a) The commissioner, in addition to all the powers and duties vested by law, is vested with the power and is charged with the duty of observing, administering and enforcing chapters 1-6 of this title. (b) The commissioner is authorized to adopt and enforce rules and regulations necessary to carry out chapters 1-6 of this title. Acts 1951, ch. 70, § 18 (Williams, § 5538.118); T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 59-203.
(a) The commissioner, in addition to all the powers and duties vested by law, is vested with the power and is charged with the duty of observing, administering and enforcing chapters 1-6 of this title.
(b) The commissioner is authorized to adopt and enforce rules and regulations necessary to carry out chapters 1-6 of this title.
Acts 1951, ch. 70, § 18 (Williams, § 5538.118); T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 59-203.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-4-332 — TN Code / Title 55 / Chapter 4 / Section 55-4-332
College sports
Status: in_force

(a) (1) (A) An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state, upon complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and the fee provided for in § 55-4-204 , shall be issued a University of Tennessee Lady Volunteers' NCAA National Championships new specialty earmarked license plate for a motor vehicle as authorized by § 55-4-210(c) . (B) The purpose of the new specialty earmarked plates is to commemorate and celebrate the University of Tennessee Lady Volunteer Basketball Team's eight (8) NCAA Division I Women's Basketball Championships, which were won in 1987, 1989, 1991, 1996, 1997, 1998, 2007, and 2008. (2) The new specialty earmarked plates provided for in this subsection (a) must contain the colors and logo of the University of Tennessee Lady Volunteers and include the language "LADY VOLS NATIONAL CHAMPIONS" in an appropriate design. The plates must be designed in consultation with the president of the University of Tennessee system. (3) (A) The funds produced from the sale of University of Tennessee Lady Volunteers' NCAA National Championships new specialty earmarked license plates must be appropriated to the University of Tennessee, Knoxville women's athletics department in accordance with § 55-4-301 . The funds must be earmarked to be used exclusively to fund scholarships for women's athletics at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. (B) The funds must only be expended to fund activities authorized by this subsection (a). Any funds appropriated to the University of Tennessee pursuant to this subsection (a) must remain in reserve until expended for purposes consistent with this subsection (a), and shall not revert to the general fund on any June 30. Any interest earned on moneys appropriated to the University of Tennessee pursuant to this subsection (a) shall not revert on any June 30, but must remain available for appropriation in subsequent fiscal years. (b) (1) (A) An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state, upon complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and the fee provided for in § 55-4-204 , shall be issued a University of Tennessee National Championship new specialty earmarked license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c) . (B) The purpose of the new specialty earmarked plates is to commemorate and celebrate the University of Tennessee Volunteer football team's victory in the 1999 Fiesta Bowl and capture of the 1998-1999 National Championship. (2) The new specialty earmarked plates provided for in this subsection (b) must contain the colors and logo of the University of Tennessee Volunteers and include the language "UNIVERSITY OF TENNESSEE NATIONAL CHAMPIONS" in an appropriate design. The plates must be designed in consultation with the president of the University of Tennessee system. (3) (A) The funds produced from the sale of University of Tennessee National Championship new specialty earmarked license plates must be appropriated to the University of Tennessee in accordance with § 55-4-301 . The funds must be deposited in the University of Tennessee, Knoxville general scholarship fund and used exclusively to fulfill the academic mission of the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. (B) The funds must only be expended to fund activities authorized by this subsection (b). Any funds appropriated to the University of Tennessee pursuant to this subsection (b) must remain in reserve until expended for purposes consistent with this subsection (b), and shall not revert to the general fund on any June 30. Any interest earned on moneys appropriated to the University of Tennessee pursuant to this subsection (b) shall not revert on any June 30, but must remain available for appropriation in subsequent fiscal years. Added by 2023 Tenn. Acts, ch. 250, s 1, eff. 7/1/2023.
(a) (1) (A) An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state, upon complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and the fee provided for in § 55-4-204 , shall be issued a University of Tennessee Lady Volunteers' NCAA National Championships new specialty earmarked license plate for a motor vehicle as authorized by § 55-4-210(c) . (B) The purpose of the new specialty earmarked plates is to commemorate and celebrate the University of Tennessee Lady Volunteer Basketball Team's eight (8) NCAA Division I Women's Basketball Championships, which were won in 1987, 1989, 1991, 1996, 1997, 1998, 2007, and 2008. (2) The new specialty earmarked plates provided for in this subsection (a) must contain the colors and logo of the University of Tennessee Lady Volunteers and include the language "LADY VOLS NATIONAL CHAMPIONS" in an appropriate design. The plates must be designed in consultation with the president of the University of Tennessee system. (3) (A) The funds produced from the sale of University of Tennessee Lady Volunteers' NCAA National Championships new specialty earmarked license plates must be appropriated to the University of Tennessee, Knoxville women's athletics department in accordance with § 55-4-301 . The funds must be earmarked to be used exclusively to fund scholarships for women's athletics at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. (B) The funds must only be expended to fund activities authorized by this subsection (a). Any funds appropriated to the University of Tennessee pursuant to this subsection (a) must remain in reserve until expended for purposes consistent with this subsection (a), and shall not revert to the general fund on any June 30. Any interest earned on moneys appropriated to the University of Tennessee pursuant to this subsection (a) shall not revert on any June 30, but must remain available for appropriation in subsequent fiscal years.
(1) (A) An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state, upon complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and the fee provided for in § 55-4-204 , shall be issued a University of Tennessee Lady Volunteers' NCAA National Championships new specialty earmarked license plate for a motor vehicle as authorized by § 55-4-210(c) . (B) The purpose of the new specialty earmarked plates is to commemorate and celebrate the University of Tennessee Lady Volunteer Basketball Team's eight (8) NCAA Division I Women's Basketball Championships, which were won in 1987, 1989, 1991, 1996, 1997, 1998, 2007, and 2008.
(A) An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state, upon complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and the fee provided for in § 55-4-204 , shall be issued a University of Tennessee Lady Volunteers' NCAA National Championships new specialty earmarked license plate for a motor vehicle as authorized by § 55-4-210(c) .
(B) The purpose of the new specialty earmarked plates is to commemorate and celebrate the University of Tennessee Lady Volunteer Basketball Team's eight (8) NCAA Division I Women's Basketball Championships, which were won in 1987, 1989, 1991, 1996, 1997, 1998, 2007, and 2008.
(2) The new specialty earmarked plates provided for in this subsection (a) must contain the colors and logo of the University of Tennessee Lady Volunteers and include the language "LADY VOLS NATIONAL CHAMPIONS" in an appropriate design. The plates must be designed in consultation with the president of the University of Tennessee system.
(3) (A) The funds produced from the sale of University of Tennessee Lady Volunteers' NCAA National Championships new specialty earmarked license plates must be appropriated to the University of Tennessee, Knoxville women's athletics department in accordance with § 55-4-301 . The funds must be earmarked to be used exclusively to fund scholarships for women's athletics at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. (B) The funds must only be expended to fund activities authorized by this subsection (a). Any funds appropriated to the University of Tennessee pursuant to this subsection (a) must remain in reserve until expended for purposes consistent with this subsection (a), and shall not revert to the general fund on any June 30. Any interest earned on moneys appropriated to the University of Tennessee pursuant to this subsection (a) shall not revert on any June 30, but must remain available for appropriation in subsequent fiscal years.
(A) The funds produced from the sale of University of Tennessee Lady Volunteers' NCAA National Championships new specialty earmarked license plates must be appropriated to the University of Tennessee, Knoxville women's athletics department in accordance with § 55-4-301 . The funds must be earmarked to be used exclusively to fund scholarships for women's athletics at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville.
(B) The funds must only be expended to fund activities authorized by this subsection (a). Any funds appropriated to the University of Tennessee pursuant to this subsection (a) must remain in reserve until expended for purposes consistent with this subsection (a), and shall not revert to the general fund on any June 30. Any interest earned on moneys appropriated to the University of Tennessee pursuant to this subsection (a) shall not revert on any June 30, but must remain available for appropriation in subsequent fiscal years.
(b) (1) (A) An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state, upon complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and the fee provided for in § 55-4-204 , shall be issued a University of Tennessee National Championship new specialty earmarked license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c) . (B) The purpose of the new specialty earmarked plates is to commemorate and celebrate the University of Tennessee Volunteer football team's victory in the 1999 Fiesta Bowl and capture of the 1998-1999 National Championship. (2) The new specialty earmarked plates provided for in this subsection (b) must contain the colors and logo of the University of Tennessee Volunteers and include the language "UNIVERSITY OF TENNESSEE NATIONAL CHAMPIONS" in an appropriate design. The plates must be designed in consultation with the president of the University of Tennessee system. (3) (A) The funds produced from the sale of University of Tennessee National Championship new specialty earmarked license plates must be appropriated to the University of Tennessee in accordance with § 55-4-301 . The funds must be deposited in the University of Tennessee, Knoxville general scholarship fund and used exclusively to fulfill the academic mission of the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. (B) The funds must only be expended to fund activities authorized by this subsection (b). Any funds appropriated to the University of Tennessee pursuant to this subsection (b) must remain in reserve until expended for purposes consistent with this subsection (b), and shall not revert to the general fund on any June 30. Any interest earned on moneys appropriated to the University of Tennessee pursuant to this subsection (b) shall not revert on any June 30, but must remain available for appropriation in subsequent fiscal years.
(1) (A) An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state, upon complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and the fee provided for in § 55-4-204 , shall be issued a University of Tennessee National Championship new specialty earmarked license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c) . (B) The purpose of the new specialty earmarked plates is to commemorate and celebrate the University of Tennessee Volunteer football team's victory in the 1999 Fiesta Bowl and capture of the 1998-1999 National Championship.
(A) An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state, upon complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and the fee provided for in § 55-4-204 , shall be issued a University of Tennessee National Championship new specialty earmarked license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c) .
(B) The purpose of the new specialty earmarked plates is to commemorate and celebrate the University of Tennessee Volunteer football team's victory in the 1999 Fiesta Bowl and capture of the 1998-1999 National Championship.
(2) The new specialty earmarked plates provided for in this subsection (b) must contain the colors and logo of the University of Tennessee Volunteers and include the language "UNIVERSITY OF TENNESSEE NATIONAL CHAMPIONS" in an appropriate design. The plates must be designed in consultation with the president of the University of Tennessee system.
(3) (A) The funds produced from the sale of University of Tennessee National Championship new specialty earmarked license plates must be appropriated to the University of Tennessee in accordance with § 55-4-301 . The funds must be deposited in the University of Tennessee, Knoxville general scholarship fund and used exclusively to fulfill the academic mission of the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. (B) The funds must only be expended to fund activities authorized by this subsection (b). Any funds appropriated to the University of Tennessee pursuant to this subsection (b) must remain in reserve until expended for purposes consistent with this subsection (b), and shall not revert to the general fund on any June 30. Any interest earned on moneys appropriated to the University of Tennessee pursuant to this subsection (b) shall not revert on any June 30, but must remain available for appropriation in subsequent fiscal years.
(A) The funds produced from the sale of University of Tennessee National Championship new specialty earmarked license plates must be appropriated to the University of Tennessee in accordance with § 55-4-301 . The funds must be deposited in the University of Tennessee, Knoxville general scholarship fund and used exclusively to fulfill the academic mission of the University of Tennessee, Knoxville.
(B) The funds must only be expended to fund activities authorized by this subsection (b). Any funds appropriated to the University of Tennessee pursuant to this subsection (b) must remain in reserve until expended for purposes consistent with this subsection (b), and shall not revert to the general fund on any June 30. Any interest earned on moneys appropriated to the University of Tennessee pursuant to this subsection (b) shall not revert on any June 30, but must remain available for appropriation in subsequent fiscal years.
Added by 2023 Tenn. Acts, ch. 250, s 1, eff. 7/1/2023.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-4-251 — TN Code / Title 55 / Chapter 4 / Section 55-4-251
Annual verification process for memorial registration plates and military registration plates
Status: in_force

(a) This section shall apply to memorial registration plates described in § 55-4-203(c)(4) and military registration plates described in § 55-4-203(c)(5)(G) . (b) Each registration plate to which this section applies shall be subject to a verification process that shall occur annually upon the renewal of the plate, if applicable, or upon such other time as determined by the department. The department may prescribe the form and manner of submitting any proof or documentation required by this section; provided, that the holder shall be permitted to submit such proof or documentation by mail or in person. (c) At the time of annual verification, the holder of the plate shall submit satisfactory proof that the holder is a resident of the county in which the vehicle is registered, and any other proof that the department may require showing that the holder is complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration. (d) If the holder of the plate is deceased as of the date of annual verification, and if the copy of the death certificate of the deceased holder has not been previously submitted, then the surviving spouse of the deceased or the personal representative of the deceased holder's estate shall submit a copy of the death certificate at the time of the annual verification. (e) If any surviving spouse of a deceased holder of a plate wishes to continue the issuance of, and retain the plate formerly held by the deceased holder, or apply for issuance of the plate to which the deceased spouse was entitled, as authorized by § 55-4-261 , § 55-4-257 , § 55-4-263 , § 55-4-252 , or § 55-4-253 , as applicable, then the surviving spouse shall do so at the time of the annual verification. The surviving spouse shall submit a copy of the death certificate of the deceased holder and documentation showing the surviving spouse is a resident of the county for which the vehicle that is owned or leased by the deceased holder or surviving spouse is registered, and shall pay any applicable fees. Amended by 2018 Tenn. Acts, ch. 1023, s 49, eff. 7/1/2018. Added by 2014 Tenn. Acts, ch. 966,s 22, eff. 5/19/2014.
(a) This section shall apply to memorial registration plates described in § 55-4-203(c)(4) and military registration plates described in § 55-4-203(c)(5)(G) .
(b) Each registration plate to which this section applies shall be subject to a verification process that shall occur annually upon the renewal of the plate, if applicable, or upon such other time as determined by the department. The department may prescribe the form and manner of submitting any proof or documentation required by this section; provided, that the holder shall be permitted to submit such proof or documentation by mail or in person.
(c) At the time of annual verification, the holder of the plate shall submit satisfactory proof that the holder is a resident of the county in which the vehicle is registered, and any other proof that the department may require showing that the holder is complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration.
(d) If the holder of the plate is deceased as of the date of annual verification, and if the copy of the death certificate of the deceased holder has not been previously submitted, then the surviving spouse of the deceased or the personal representative of the deceased holder's estate shall submit a copy of the death certificate at the time of the annual verification.
(e) If any surviving spouse of a deceased holder of a plate wishes to continue the issuance of, and retain the plate formerly held by the deceased holder, or apply for issuance of the plate to which the deceased spouse was entitled, as authorized by § 55-4-261 , § 55-4-257 , § 55-4-263 , § 55-4-252 , or § 55-4-253 , as applicable, then the surviving spouse shall do so at the time of the annual verification. The surviving spouse shall submit a copy of the death certificate of the deceased holder and documentation showing the surviving spouse is a resident of the county for which the vehicle that is owned or leased by the deceased holder or surviving spouse is registered, and shall pay any applicable fees.
Amended by 2018 Tenn. Acts, ch. 1023, s 49, eff. 7/1/2018.
Added by 2014 Tenn. Acts, ch. 966,s 22, eff. 5/19/2014.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-8-106 — TN Code / Title 55 / Chapter 8 / Section 55-8-106
Public officers and employees - Exceptions
Status: in_force

The provisions of this chapter and chapter 10, parts 1-5 of this title applicable to drivers of vehicles upon the highways shall apply to the drivers of all vehicles owned or operated by the United States, this state or any county, city, town, district or any other political subdivision of the state, subject to specific exceptions as are set forth in this chapter and chapter 10, parts 1-5 of this title. Acts 1955, ch. 329, § 95; T.C.A., § 59-806.
The provisions of this chapter and chapter 10, parts 1-5 of this title applicable to drivers of vehicles upon the highways shall apply to the drivers of all vehicles owned or operated by the United States, this state or any county, city, town, district or any other political subdivision of the state, subject to specific exceptions as are set forth in this chapter and chapter 10, parts 1-5 of this title.
Acts 1955, ch. 329, § 95; T.C.A., § 59-806.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-10-305 — TN Code / Title 55 / Chapter 10 / Section 55-10-305
Cases - How tried
Status: in_force

No judge shall try any case except upon warrant duly prepared in the form required by law, which shall be preserved with the other papers pertaining to the judge's office, and no such judge shall collect any fine or cost imposed in any case involving a violation of chapters 8 and 9 of this title, parts 1-5 of this chapter and § 55-12-139 , until that judge has completed the entries pertaining to the case in a docket kept for the making of the judge's records. All such dockets shall be preserved and shall be at all times subject to inspection upon demand of any person named therein, and by all state officials or their duly authorized representatives. All judges shall deliver upon request, without charge, to the accused a receipt showing in detail the amount of fine and cost imposed upon and paid by the accused. No judge shall divide the fees of the judge's office with any constable, sheriff, or other state officer, or with any individual who may assist in making an arrest or furnish evidence in a case arising under chapters 8 and 9 of this title, parts 1-5 of this chapter and § 55-12-139 . Any judge violating any of this section or failing or refusing to make returns of convictions and fines or penalties imposed in chapters 8 and 9 of this title, parts 1-5 of this chapter and § 55-12-139 , shall be subject to removal for misdemeanor in office. Acts 1931, ch. 82, § 18; C. Supp. 1950, § 2700.20 (Williams, § 2699); Acts 1955, ch. 329, § 106; impl. am. Acts 1979, ch. 68, §§ 2, 3; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 59-1026; Acts 2001, ch. 292, § 4.
No judge shall try any case except upon warrant duly prepared in the form required by law, which shall be preserved with the other papers pertaining to the judge's office, and no such judge shall collect any fine or cost imposed in any case involving a violation of chapters 8 and 9 of this title, parts 1-5 of this chapter and § 55-12-139 , until that judge has completed the entries pertaining to the case in a docket kept for the making of the judge's records. All such dockets shall be preserved and shall be at all times subject to inspection upon demand of any person named therein, and by all state officials or their duly authorized representatives. All judges shall deliver upon request, without charge, to the accused a receipt showing in detail the amount of fine and cost imposed upon and paid by the accused. No judge shall divide the fees of the judge's office with any constable, sheriff, or other state officer, or with any individual who may assist in making an arrest or furnish evidence in a case arising under chapters 8 and 9 of this title, parts 1-5 of this chapter and § 55-12-139 . Any judge violating any of this section or failing or refusing to make returns of convictions and fines or penalties imposed in chapters 8 and 9 of this title, parts 1-5 of this chapter and § 55-12-139 , shall be subject to removal for misdemeanor in office.
Acts 1931, ch. 82, § 18; C. Supp. 1950, § 2700.20 (Williams, § 2699); Acts 1955, ch. 329, § 106; impl. am. Acts 1979, ch. 68, §§ 2, 3; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 59-1026; Acts 2001, ch. 292, § 4.