Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-1-105 — TN Code / Title 55 / Chapter 1 / Section 55-1-105
"Manufactured home," "mobile home or house trailer," "pole trailer," "semitrailer," and "trailer" defined
Status: in_force

(a) "Manufactured home" means any structure, transportable in one (1) or more sections, which, in the traveling mode, is eight (8) or more body-feet in width or forty (40) or more body-feet in length, or when erected on site, is three hundred twenty (320) or more square feet, and which is built on a permanent chassis and designed to be used as a dwelling with or without a permanent foundation when connected to the required utilities, and includes the plumbing, heating, air-conditioning and electrical systems contained therein. The term includes any structure that meets all of the requirements of this subsection (a) except the size requirements and with respect to which the manufacturer voluntarily files a certification required by the United States secretary of housing and urban development and complies with the standards established by title 42 of the United States Code. As defined in this subsection (a), "manufactured home" also has the same meaning as "mobile home," as defined in title 68, chapter 126, and "manufactured home," as defined in § 47-9-102 . (b) "Mobile home or house trailer" means any vehicle or conveyance, not self-propelled, designed for travel upon the public highways, and designed for use as a residence, office, apartment, storehouse, warehouse, or any other similar purpose. "Mobile home or house trailer" includes any "manufactured home" as defined in subsection (a). (c) "Pole trailer" means every vehicle without motive power designed to be drawn by another vehicle and attached to the towing vehicle by means of a reach, or pole, or by being boomed or otherwise secured to the towing vehicle, and ordinarily used for transporting long or irregularly shaped loads such as poles, pipes, or structural members capable, generally, of sustaining themselves as beams between the supporting connections. (d) "Semitrailer" means every vehicle without motive power and not a motor vehicle as defined in this section, other than a pole trailer, designed for carrying persons or property and for being drawn by a motor vehicle and so constructed that some part of its weight and that of its load rests upon or is carried by another vehicle. (e) "Trailer" means every vehicle with or without motive power, other than a pole trailer, designed for carrying persons or property and for being drawn by a motor vehicle and so constructed that no part of its weight rests upon the towing vehicle. Acts 1951, ch. 70, § 4 (Williams, § 5538.104); Acts 1963, ch. 143, § 2; 1970, ch. 433, § 1; 1971, ch. 274, § 1; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), §59-105; Acts 2003 , ch. 76, §§ 1, 2.
(a) "Manufactured home" means any structure, transportable in one (1) or more sections, which, in the traveling mode, is eight (8) or more body-feet in width or forty (40) or more body-feet in length, or when erected on site, is three hundred twenty (320) or more square feet, and which is built on a permanent chassis and designed to be used as a dwelling with or without a permanent foundation when connected to the required utilities, and includes the plumbing, heating, air-conditioning and electrical systems contained therein. The term includes any structure that meets all of the requirements of this subsection (a) except the size requirements and with respect to which the manufacturer voluntarily files a certification required by the United States secretary of housing and urban development and complies with the standards established by title 42 of the United States Code. As defined in this subsection (a), "manufactured home" also has the same meaning as "mobile home," as defined in title 68, chapter 126, and "manufactured home," as defined in § 47-9-102 .
(b) "Mobile home or house trailer" means any vehicle or conveyance, not self-propelled, designed for travel upon the public highways, and designed for use as a residence, office, apartment, storehouse, warehouse, or any other similar purpose. "Mobile home or house trailer" includes any "manufactured home" as defined in subsection (a).
(c) "Pole trailer" means every vehicle without motive power designed to be drawn by another vehicle and attached to the towing vehicle by means of a reach, or pole, or by being boomed or otherwise secured to the towing vehicle, and ordinarily used for transporting long or irregularly shaped loads such as poles, pipes, or structural members capable, generally, of sustaining themselves as beams between the supporting connections.
(d) "Semitrailer" means every vehicle without motive power and not a motor vehicle as defined in this section, other than a pole trailer, designed for carrying persons or property and for being drawn by a motor vehicle and so constructed that some part of its weight and that of its load rests upon or is carried by another vehicle.
(e) "Trailer" means every vehicle with or without motive power, other than a pole trailer, designed for carrying persons or property and for being drawn by a motor vehicle and so constructed that no part of its weight rests upon the towing vehicle.
Acts 1951, ch. 70, § 4 (Williams, § 5538.104); Acts 1963, ch. 143, § 2; 1970, ch. 433, § 1; 1971, ch. 274, § 1; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), §59-105; Acts 2003 , ch. 76, §§ 1, 2.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-25-105 — TN Code / Title 55 / Chapter 25 / Section 55-25-105
[Amendment contingent on funding by the federal selective service system. See the Compiler's Notes.] Disclosure for safety, environmental, and federal compliance purposes
Status: in_force

(a) Personal information referred to in § 55-25-104 shall be disclosed for use in connection with matters of motor vehicle or driver safety and theft, motor vehicle emissions, motor vehicle product alterations, recalls, or advisories, performance monitoring of motor vehicles and dealers by motor vehicle manufacturers, and removal of nonowner records from the original owner records of motor vehicle manufacturers to carry out the purposes of the Federal Automobile Information Disclosure Act ( 15 U.S.C. § 1231 et seq.), the Motor Vehicle Information and Cost Savings Act ( 15 U.S.C. § 1901 et seq.), the National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act of 1966 ( 15 U.S.C. § 1381 et seq.), the Anti-Car Theft Act of 1992 ( 15 U.S.C. § 2021 et seq.), and the Clean Air Act ( 42 U.S.C. § 7401 et seq.), as amended, and all statutes and agency regulations enacted or adopted pursuant to the authority of, or to attain compliance with, these acts of congress. (b) [Effective December 1, 2002, if contingency met.] Personal information referred to in § 55-25-104 shall be disclosed for use in connection with matters concerning the federal selective services system. Acts 1996, ch. 745, § 5; 2002, ch. 781, § 1.
(a) Personal information referred to in § 55-25-104 shall be disclosed for use in connection with matters of motor vehicle or driver safety and theft, motor vehicle emissions, motor vehicle product alterations, recalls, or advisories, performance monitoring of motor vehicles and dealers by motor vehicle manufacturers, and removal of nonowner records from the original owner records of motor vehicle manufacturers to carry out the purposes of the Federal Automobile Information Disclosure Act ( 15 U.S.C. § 1231 et seq.), the Motor Vehicle Information and Cost Savings Act ( 15 U.S.C. § 1901 et seq.), the National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act of 1966 ( 15 U.S.C. § 1381 et seq.), the Anti-Car Theft Act of 1992 ( 15 U.S.C. § 2021 et seq.), and the Clean Air Act ( 42 U.S.C. § 7401 et seq.), as amended, and all statutes and agency regulations enacted or adopted pursuant to the authority of, or to attain compliance with, these acts of congress.
(b) [Effective December 1, 2002, if contingency met.] Personal information referred to in § 55-25-104 shall be disclosed for use in connection with matters concerning the federal selective services system.
Acts 1996, ch. 745, § 5; 2002, ch. 781, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-17-407 — TN Code / Title 55 / Chapter 17 / Section 55-17-407
Location - Notification of changes - Possession of salesperson's license when engaged in business
Status: in_force

(a) The license issued to each recreational vehicle dealer or manufacturer under this part shall specify the location of the factory, dealership, office, or branch, as applicable. (b) Any recreational vehicle dealer licensed under this part shall promptly notify the commission of a change in ownership, location, or franchise or any other matters the commission may require by rule. (c) Every vehicle salesperson shall have the license in the person's possession when engaged in business and shall display it upon request. The name of the employer of the vehicle salesperson shall appear on the face of the license. (d) In addition to the license required under this part or part 1 of this chapter, any person engaged in the business of a public automobile auction and selling recreation vehicles shall also be licensed as a public automobile auction pursuant to § 55-17-109 . (e) Nothing in this chapter shall be construed to require a motor vehicle salesperson licensed pursuant to part 1 of this chapter to obtain more than one (1) salesperson license to perform such actions for any dealer dually licensed as a recreational vehicle dealer pursuant to this part and motor vehicle dealer pursuant to part 1 of this chapter. Added by 2016 Tenn. Acts, ch. 781,s 10, eff. 1/1/2017.
(a) The license issued to each recreational vehicle dealer or manufacturer under this part shall specify the location of the factory, dealership, office, or branch, as applicable.
(b) Any recreational vehicle dealer licensed under this part shall promptly notify the commission of a change in ownership, location, or franchise or any other matters the commission may require by rule.
(c) Every vehicle salesperson shall have the license in the person's possession when engaged in business and shall display it upon request. The name of the employer of the vehicle salesperson shall appear on the face of the license.
(d) In addition to the license required under this part or part 1 of this chapter, any person engaged in the business of a public automobile auction and selling recreation vehicles shall also be licensed as a public automobile auction pursuant to § 55-17-109 .
(e) Nothing in this chapter shall be construed to require a motor vehicle salesperson licensed pursuant to part 1 of this chapter to obtain more than one (1) salesperson license to perform such actions for any dealer dually licensed as a recreational vehicle dealer pursuant to this part and motor vehicle dealer pursuant to part 1 of this chapter.
Added by 2016 Tenn. Acts, ch. 781,s 10, eff. 1/1/2017.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-19-112 — TN Code / Title 55 / Chapter 19 / Section 55-19-112
Examinations - Certification that applicant has successfully completed school requirements
Status: in_force

(a) All written examinations used by commercial driver training schools shall be numbered and maintained by the driving school. Each driving school shall maintain a list of all written examinations. Written examinations shall be maintained in a manner that ensures the integrity and confidentiality of their contents. The license of a commercial driver training school that fails to maintain a list of driving examinations is subject to suspension or revocation. (b) All electronic examinations used by commercial driving schools shall be maintained in such a manner that ensures the integrity and confidentiality of the examinations. (c) All documents issued by a commercial driver training school shall certify that the applicant has completed successfully the requirements of the school. Each certification shall have a unique identifying number or mark. The commercial driver training school shall transmit to the department of safety, driver license issuance division, a list of all certifications issued and the person to whom the certification was issued. The list of certifications shall include the identifying number or mark on every certification issued. The department of safety shall not issue a driver license, instruction permit or immediate driver license based upon a certificate issued by a commercial driver training school, unless it has a list of certifications from the commercial driver training school and the applicant provides satisfactory proof that the applicant is the person who received the certificate from the commercial driver training school. Acts 2006, ch. 976, § 1.
(a) All written examinations used by commercial driver training schools shall be numbered and maintained by the driving school. Each driving school shall maintain a list of all written examinations. Written examinations shall be maintained in a manner that ensures the integrity and confidentiality of their contents. The license of a commercial driver training school that fails to maintain a list of driving examinations is subject to suspension or revocation.
(b) All electronic examinations used by commercial driving schools shall be maintained in such a manner that ensures the integrity and confidentiality of the examinations.
(c) All documents issued by a commercial driver training school shall certify that the applicant has completed successfully the requirements of the school. Each certification shall have a unique identifying number or mark. The commercial driver training school shall transmit to the department of safety, driver license issuance division, a list of all certifications issued and the person to whom the certification was issued. The list of certifications shall include the identifying number or mark on every certification issued. The department of safety shall not issue a driver license, instruction permit or immediate driver license based upon a certificate issued by a commercial driver training school, unless it has a list of certifications from the commercial driver training school and the applicant provides satisfactory proof that the applicant is the person who received the certificate from the commercial driver training school.
Acts 2006, ch. 976, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-7-115 — TN Code / Title 55 / Chapter 7 / Section 55-7-115
Vehicles exclusively transporting seed cotton modules
Status: in_force

(a) Except as provided in subsection (d), a single motor vehicle used exclusively to transport seed cotton modules shall not exceed a width of one hundred eight inches (108") when operated on any highway designated by the department of transportation, and shall not exceed a width of one hundred two inches (102") when operated on any highway not so designated. (b) Except as provided in subsection (d), a single motor vehicle used exclusively to transport seed cotton modules may exceed the limitation on length provided for a single vehicle by § 55-7-201 , but may not exceed a length of fifty-three feet (53'). (c) Except as provided by subsection (d), a single motor vehicle used exclusively to transport seed cotton modules may exceed the limitation on weight provided for a single vehicle, but the load on any one (1) axle may not exceed twenty thousand pounds (20,000 lbs.), the tandem axle load may not exceed thirty-eight thousand pounds (38,000 lbs.) without van-type cover, thirty-nine thousand four hundred pounds (39,400 lbs.) with van-type cover, and the overall gross weight of the vehicle or vehicles may not exceed fifty-nine thousand four hundred pounds (59,400 lbs.). (d) A vehicle may not be operated on the national system of interstate and defense highways if it exceeds the maximum size or weight authorized by 23 U.S.C. § 127 . Acts 1989, ch. 330, § 1; 1991, ch. 226, § 1.
(a) Except as provided in subsection (d), a single motor vehicle used exclusively to transport seed cotton modules shall not exceed a width of one hundred eight inches (108") when operated on any highway designated by the department of transportation, and shall not exceed a width of one hundred two inches (102") when operated on any highway not so designated.
(b) Except as provided in subsection (d), a single motor vehicle used exclusively to transport seed cotton modules may exceed the limitation on length provided for a single vehicle by § 55-7-201 , but may not exceed a length of fifty-three feet (53').
(c) Except as provided by subsection (d), a single motor vehicle used exclusively to transport seed cotton modules may exceed the limitation on weight provided for a single vehicle, but the load on any one (1) axle may not exceed twenty thousand pounds (20,000 lbs.), the tandem axle load may not exceed thirty-eight thousand pounds (38,000 lbs.) without van-type cover, thirty-nine thousand four hundred pounds (39,400 lbs.) with van-type cover, and the overall gross weight of the vehicle or vehicles may not exceed fifty-nine thousand four hundred pounds (59,400 lbs.).
(d) A vehicle may not be operated on the national system of interstate and defense highways if it exceeds the maximum size or weight authorized by 23 U.S.C. § 127 .
Acts 1989, ch. 330, § 1; 1991, ch. 226, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-6-110 — TN Code / Title 55 / Chapter 6 / Section 55-6-110
No fee, charge or other cost to be charged or assessed against OEM headquarters company vehicle titling or registration
Status: in_force

Notwithstanding chapters 1-6 of this title to the contrary, no fee, charge or other cost otherwise applicable under chapters 1-6 of this title shall be charged or assessed against any OEM headquarters company in connection with the titling or registration of any OEM headquarters company vehicle. Acts 2009, ch. 530, § 125.
Notwithstanding chapters 1-6 of this title to the contrary, no fee, charge or other cost otherwise applicable under chapters 1-6 of this title shall be charged or assessed against any OEM headquarters company in connection with the titling or registration of any OEM headquarters company vehicle.
Acts 2009, ch. 530, § 125.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-50-801 — TN Code / Title 55 / Chapter 50 / Section 55-50-801
[Repealed]
Status: repealed

Repealed by 2024 Tenn. Acts, ch. 530,s 1, eff. 3/7/2024. Acts 1971, ch. 267, § 1; 1974, ch. 437, § 1; 1975, ch. 28, § 1; impl. am. Acts 1978, ch. 934, §§ 7, 36; T.C.A., §§ 59-730, 55-7-401, 55-7-801; modified.
Repealed by 2024 Tenn. Acts, ch. 530,s 1, eff. 3/7/2024.
Acts 1971, ch. 267, § 1; 1974, ch. 437, § 1; 1975, ch. 28, § 1; impl. am. Acts 1978, ch. 934, §§ 7, 36; T.C.A., §§ 59-730, 55-7-401, 55-7-801; modified.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-50-418 — TN Code / Title 55 / Chapter 50 / Section 55-50-418
Audits - Research partnership
Status: in_force

(a) The department shall periodically audit CDL skills tests conducted by department employees. The audit may include, but is not limited to, overt observation of skills examinations, covert observations of skills examinations, and co-scoring of skills examinations. (b) By January 1, 2023, the department shall prepare informational materials for individuals preparing to take the CDL skills tests. (c) The department is authorized to partner with institutions of higher education to conduct research related to commercial drivers and CDLs, strategies to promote driving careers in the commercial trucking industry, and strategies to better enable drivers to obtain and retain CDLs. Added by 2022 Tenn. Acts, ch. 992, s 3, eff. 7/1/2022.
(a) The department shall periodically audit CDL skills tests conducted by department employees. The audit may include, but is not limited to, overt observation of skills examinations, covert observations of skills examinations, and co-scoring of skills examinations.
(b) By January 1, 2023, the department shall prepare informational materials for individuals preparing to take the CDL skills tests.
(c) The department is authorized to partner with institutions of higher education to conduct research related to commercial drivers and CDLs, strategies to promote driving careers in the commercial trucking industry, and strategies to better enable drivers to obtain and retain CDLs.
Added by 2022 Tenn. Acts, ch. 992, s 3, eff. 7/1/2022.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-50-333 — TN Code / Title 55 / Chapter 50 / Section 55-50-333
Change of address
Status: in_force

Whenever any person after applying for or receiving a license moves from the address named in the application or license, or when the name of a licensee is changed for any reason, the person shall within ten (10) days thereafter notify the department of the change or changes. Acts 1937, ch. 90, § 6; 1943, ch. 56, § 1; mod. C. Supp. 1950, § 2715.14 (Williams, §§ 2715.19, 2715.19a); Acts 1955, ch. 114, § 4; 1967, ch. 97, § 1; 1967, ch. 370, § 1; 1969, ch. 176, §§ 1, 2; 1970, ch. 352, § 1; 1972, ch. 652, § 1; 1974, ch. 444, §§ 3, 4; 1974, ch. 748, § 31; modified; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 59-707; Acts 1980, ch. 817, § 1; 1982, ch. 767, § 1; 1984, ch. 942, § 1; 1987, ch. 446, § 9; 1988, ch. 584, § 7; T.C.A., §§ 55-7-107 , 55-7-333.
Whenever any person after applying for or receiving a license moves from the address named in the application or license, or when the name of a licensee is changed for any reason, the person shall within ten (10) days thereafter notify the department of the change or changes.
Acts 1937, ch. 90, § 6; 1943, ch. 56, § 1; mod. C. Supp. 1950, § 2715.14 (Williams, §§ 2715.19, 2715.19a); Acts 1955, ch. 114, § 4; 1967, ch. 97, § 1; 1967, ch. 370, § 1; 1969, ch. 176, §§ 1, 2; 1970, ch. 352, § 1; 1972, ch. 652, § 1; 1974, ch. 444, §§ 3, 4; 1974, ch. 748, § 31; modified; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 59-707; Acts 1980, ch. 817, § 1; 1982, ch. 767, § 1; 1984, ch. 942, § 1; 1987, ch. 446, § 9; 1988, ch. 584, § 7; T.C.A., §§ 55-7-107 , 55-7-333.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-12-139 — TN Code / Title 55 / Chapter 12 / Section 55-12-139
Compliance with financial responsibility law required - Evidence of compliance - Issuance of citations by police service technicians
Status: in_force

(a) This part shall apply to every vehicle subject to the registration and certificate of title provisions. (b) (1) (A) At the time a driver of a motor vehicle is charged with any violation under chapters 8 and 10, parts 1-5, and chapter 50 of this title; chapter 9 of this title; any other local ordinance regulating traffic; or at the time of an accident for which notice is required under § 55-10-106 , an officer shall request evidence of financial responsibility as required by this section. (B) In case of an accident for which notice is required under § 55-10-106 , the officer shall request evidence of financial responsibility from all drivers involved in the accident without regard to apparent or actual fault. (C) If the driver of a motor vehicle fails to show an officer evidence of financial responsibility, or provides the officer with evidence of a motor vehicle liability policy as evidence of financial responsibility, the officer shall utilize the vehicle insurance verification program as defined in § 55-12-203 and may rely on the information provided by the vehicle insurance verification program, for the purpose of verifying evidence of liability insurance coverage. (2) For the purposes of this section, "financial responsibility" means: (A) Documentation, such as the declaration page of an insurance policy, an insurance binder, or an insurance card from an insurance company authorized to do business in this state, whether in paper or electronic format, stating that a policy of insurance meeting the requirements of this part has been issued; (B) A certificate, valid for one (1) year, issued by the commissioner of safety, stating that: (i) A cash deposit or bond in the amount required by this part has been paid or filed with the commissioner of revenue; or (ii) The driver has qualified as a self-insurer under § 55-12-111 ; or (C) The motor vehicle being operated at the time of the violation was owned by a common carrier subject to the jurisdiction of the department of safety or the interstate commerce commission, or was owned by the United States, this state, or any political subdivision thereof, and that the motor vehicle was being operated with the owner's consent. (c) (1) It is an offense to fail to provide evidence of financial responsibility pursuant to this section. (2) Except as provided in subdivision (c)(3), a violation of subdivision (c)(1) is a Class C misdemeanor punishable only by a fine of not more than three hundred dollars ($300). (3) (A) A violation of subdivision (c)(1) is a Class A misdemeanor, if a person is not in compliance with the financial responsibility requirements of this part at the time of an accident resulting in bodily injury or death and such person was at fault for the accident. (B) For purposes of subdivision (c)(3)(A), a person is at fault for an accident if the person acted with criminal negligence, as defined in § 39-11-106 , in the operation of such person's motor vehicle. (C) A violation of subdivision (c)(1) is a Class A misdemeanor, if a person acts to demonstrate financial responsibility as required by this section by providing proof of motor vehicle liability insurance that the person knows is not valid. (4) If the driver of a motor vehicle fails to provide evidence of financial responsibility pursuant to this section, an officer may tow the motor vehicle as long as the officer's law enforcement agency has adopted a policy delineating the procedure for taking such action. (d) The fines imposed by this section shall be in addition to any other fines imposed by this title for any other violation under this title. (e) (1) On or before the court date, the person so charged may submit evidence of financial responsibility at the time of the violation. If it is the person's first violation of this section and the court is satisfied that the financial responsibility was in effect at the time of the violation, the charge of failure to provide evidence of financial responsibility shall be dismissed. Upon the person's second or subsequent violation of this section, if the court is satisfied that the financial responsibility was in effect at the time of the violation, the charge of failure to provide evidence of financial responsibility may be dismissed. Any charge that is dismissed pursuant to this subsection (e) shall be dismissed without costs to the defendant and no litigation tax shall be due or collected, notwithstanding any law to the contrary. (2) A person who did not have financial responsibility that was in effect at the time of being charged with a violation of subsection (c) shall not have that person's violation of subsection (c) dismissed. (f) (1) Notwithstanding any law to the contrary, in any county having a population in excess of seven hundred fifty thousand (750,000), according to the 2000 federal census or any subsequent federal census, police service technicians are authorized to issue traffic citations in lieu of arrest pursuant to § 55-10-207 . (2) For the purposes of subdivision (f)(1) only, "police service technician" means a person appointed by the director of police services, who responds to requests for service at accident locations and obtains information, investigates accidents and provides other services to assist the police unit, fire unit, ambulance, emergency rescue and towing service. (g) For purposes of this section, acceptable electronic formats include display of electronic images on a cellular phone or any other type of portable electronic device. (h) If a person displays the evidence in an electronic format pursuant to this section, the person is not consenting for law enforcement to access any other contents of the electronic device. Amended by 2019 Tenn. Acts, ch. 246,s 1, eff. 5/2/2019. Amended by 2015 Tenn. Acts, ch. 511,s 3, s4, s5 eff. 1/1/2016. Amended by 2015 Tenn. Acts, ch. 511,s 2, eff. 1/1/2016. Amended by 2013 Tenn. Acts, ch. 479,s 1, eff. 7/1/2013. Amended by 2013 Tenn. Acts, ch. 327,s1, s2 eff. 5/13/2013. Acts 2001, ch. 292, § 1; 2002, ch. 648, § 1; 2005, ch. 401, § 1; 2008, ch. 1169, § 1; 2009, ch. 370, § 1; 2009, ch. 441, § 1.
(a) This part shall apply to every vehicle subject to the registration and certificate of title provisions.
(b) (1) (A) At the time a driver of a motor vehicle is charged with any violation under chapters 8 and 10, parts 1-5, and chapter 50 of this title; chapter 9 of this title; any other local ordinance regulating traffic; or at the time of an accident for which notice is required under § 55-10-106 , an officer shall request evidence of financial responsibility as required by this section. (B) In case of an accident for which notice is required under § 55-10-106 , the officer shall request evidence of financial responsibility from all drivers involved in the accident without regard to apparent or actual fault. (C) If the driver of a motor vehicle fails to show an officer evidence of financial responsibility, or provides the officer with evidence of a motor vehicle liability policy as evidence of financial responsibility, the officer shall utilize the vehicle insurance verification program as defined in § 55-12-203 and may rely on the information provided by the vehicle insurance verification program, for the purpose of verifying evidence of liability insurance coverage. (2) For the purposes of this section, "financial responsibility" means: (A) Documentation, such as the declaration page of an insurance policy, an insurance binder, or an insurance card from an insurance company authorized to do business in this state, whether in paper or electronic format, stating that a policy of insurance meeting the requirements of this part has been issued; (B) A certificate, valid for one (1) year, issued by the commissioner of safety, stating that: (i) A cash deposit or bond in the amount required by this part has been paid or filed with the commissioner of revenue; or (ii) The driver has qualified as a self-insurer under § 55-12-111 ; or (C) The motor vehicle being operated at the time of the violation was owned by a common carrier subject to the jurisdiction of the department of safety or the interstate commerce commission, or was owned by the United States, this state, or any political subdivision thereof, and that the motor vehicle was being operated with the owner's consent.
(1) (A) At the time a driver of a motor vehicle is charged with any violation under chapters 8 and 10, parts 1-5, and chapter 50 of this title; chapter 9 of this title; any other local ordinance regulating traffic; or at the time of an accident for which notice is required under § 55-10-106 , an officer shall request evidence of financial responsibility as required by this section. (B) In case of an accident for which notice is required under § 55-10-106 , the officer shall request evidence of financial responsibility from all drivers involved in the accident without regard to apparent or actual fault. (C) If the driver of a motor vehicle fails to show an officer evidence of financial responsibility, or provides the officer with evidence of a motor vehicle liability policy as evidence of financial responsibility, the officer shall utilize the vehicle insurance verification program as defined in § 55-12-203 and may rely on the information provided by the vehicle insurance verification program, for the purpose of verifying evidence of liability insurance coverage.
(A) At the time a driver of a motor vehicle is charged with any violation under chapters 8 and 10, parts 1-5, and chapter 50 of this title; chapter 9 of this title; any other local ordinance regulating traffic; or at the time of an accident for which notice is required under § 55-10-106 , an officer shall request evidence of financial responsibility as required by this section.
(B) In case of an accident for which notice is required under § 55-10-106 , the officer shall request evidence of financial responsibility from all drivers involved in the accident without regard to apparent or actual fault.
(C) If the driver of a motor vehicle fails to show an officer evidence of financial responsibility, or provides the officer with evidence of a motor vehicle liability policy as evidence of financial responsibility, the officer shall utilize the vehicle insurance verification program as defined in § 55-12-203 and may rely on the information provided by the vehicle insurance verification program, for the purpose of verifying evidence of liability insurance coverage.
(2) For the purposes of this section, "financial responsibility" means: (A) Documentation, such as the declaration page of an insurance policy, an insurance binder, or an insurance card from an insurance company authorized to do business in this state, whether in paper or electronic format, stating that a policy of insurance meeting the requirements of this part has been issued; (B) A certificate, valid for one (1) year, issued by the commissioner of safety, stating that: (i) A cash deposit or bond in the amount required by this part has been paid or filed with the commissioner of revenue; or (ii) The driver has qualified as a self-insurer under § 55-12-111 ; or (C) The motor vehicle being operated at the time of the violation was owned by a common carrier subject to the jurisdiction of the department of safety or the interstate commerce commission, or was owned by the United States, this state, or any political subdivision thereof, and that the motor vehicle was being operated with the owner's consent.
(A) Documentation, such as the declaration page of an insurance policy, an insurance binder, or an insurance card from an insurance company authorized to do business in this state, whether in paper or electronic format, stating that a policy of insurance meeting the requirements of this part has been issued;
(B) A certificate, valid for one (1) year, issued by the commissioner of safety, stating that: (i) A cash deposit or bond in the amount required by this part has been paid or filed with the commissioner of revenue; or (ii) The driver has qualified as a self-insurer under § 55-12-111 ; or
(i) A cash deposit or bond in the amount required by this part has been paid or filed with the commissioner of revenue; or
(ii) The driver has qualified as a self-insurer under § 55-12-111 ; or
(C) The motor vehicle being operated at the time of the violation was owned by a common carrier subject to the jurisdiction of the department of safety or the interstate commerce commission, or was owned by the United States, this state, or any political subdivision thereof, and that the motor vehicle was being operated with the owner's consent.
(c) (1) It is an offense to fail to provide evidence of financial responsibility pursuant to this section. (2) Except as provided in subdivision (c)(3), a violation of subdivision (c)(1) is a Class C misdemeanor punishable only by a fine of not more than three hundred dollars ($300). (3) (A) A violation of subdivision (c)(1) is a Class A misdemeanor, if a person is not in compliance with the financial responsibility requirements of this part at the time of an accident resulting in bodily injury or death and such person was at fault for the accident. (B) For purposes of subdivision (c)(3)(A), a person is at fault for an accident if the person acted with criminal negligence, as defined in § 39-11-106 , in the operation of such person's motor vehicle. (C) A violation of subdivision (c)(1) is a Class A misdemeanor, if a person acts to demonstrate financial responsibility as required by this section by providing proof of motor vehicle liability insurance that the person knows is not valid. (4) If the driver of a motor vehicle fails to provide evidence of financial responsibility pursuant to this section, an officer may tow the motor vehicle as long as the officer's law enforcement agency has adopted a policy delineating the procedure for taking such action.
(1) It is an offense to fail to provide evidence of financial responsibility pursuant to this section.
(2) Except as provided in subdivision (c)(3), a violation of subdivision (c)(1) is a Class C misdemeanor punishable only by a fine of not more than three hundred dollars ($300).
(3) (A) A violation of subdivision (c)(1) is a Class A misdemeanor, if a person is not in compliance with the financial responsibility requirements of this part at the time of an accident resulting in bodily injury or death and such person was at fault for the accident. (B) For purposes of subdivision (c)(3)(A), a person is at fault for an accident if the person acted with criminal negligence, as defined in § 39-11-106 , in the operation of such person's motor vehicle. (C) A violation of subdivision (c)(1) is a Class A misdemeanor, if a person acts to demonstrate financial responsibility as required by this section by providing proof of motor vehicle liability insurance that the person knows is not valid.
(A) A violation of subdivision (c)(1) is a Class A misdemeanor, if a person is not in compliance with the financial responsibility requirements of this part at the time of an accident resulting in bodily injury or death and such person was at fault for the accident.
(B) For purposes of subdivision (c)(3)(A), a person is at fault for an accident if the person acted with criminal negligence, as defined in § 39-11-106 , in the operation of such person's motor vehicle.
(C) A violation of subdivision (c)(1) is a Class A misdemeanor, if a person acts to demonstrate financial responsibility as required by this section by providing proof of motor vehicle liability insurance that the person knows is not valid.
(4) If the driver of a motor vehicle fails to provide evidence of financial responsibility pursuant to this section, an officer may tow the motor vehicle as long as the officer's law enforcement agency has adopted a policy delineating the procedure for taking such action.
(d) The fines imposed by this section shall be in addition to any other fines imposed by this title for any other violation under this title.
(e) (1) On or before the court date, the person so charged may submit evidence of financial responsibility at the time of the violation. If it is the person's first violation of this section and the court is satisfied that the financial responsibility was in effect at the time of the violation, the charge of failure to provide evidence of financial responsibility shall be dismissed. Upon the person's second or subsequent violation of this section, if the court is satisfied that the financial responsibility was in effect at the time of the violation, the charge of failure to provide evidence of financial responsibility may be dismissed. Any charge that is dismissed pursuant to this subsection (e) shall be dismissed without costs to the defendant and no litigation tax shall be due or collected, notwithstanding any law to the contrary. (2) A person who did not have financial responsibility that was in effect at the time of being charged with a violation of subsection (c) shall not have that person's violation of subsection (c) dismissed.
(1) On or before the court date, the person so charged may submit evidence of financial responsibility at the time of the violation. If it is the person's first violation of this section and the court is satisfied that the financial responsibility was in effect at the time of the violation, the charge of failure to provide evidence of financial responsibility shall be dismissed. Upon the person's second or subsequent violation of this section, if the court is satisfied that the financial responsibility was in effect at the time of the violation, the charge of failure to provide evidence of financial responsibility may be dismissed. Any charge that is dismissed pursuant to this subsection (e) shall be dismissed without costs to the defendant and no litigation tax shall be due or collected, notwithstanding any law to the contrary.
(2) A person who did not have financial responsibility that was in effect at the time of being charged with a violation of subsection (c) shall not have that person's violation of subsection (c) dismissed.
(f) (1) Notwithstanding any law to the contrary, in any county having a population in excess of seven hundred fifty thousand (750,000), according to the 2000 federal census or any subsequent federal census, police service technicians are authorized to issue traffic citations in lieu of arrest pursuant to § 55-10-207 . (2) For the purposes of subdivision (f)(1) only, "police service technician" means a person appointed by the director of police services, who responds to requests for service at accident locations and obtains information, investigates accidents and provides other services to assist the police unit, fire unit, ambulance, emergency rescue and towing service.
(1) Notwithstanding any law to the contrary, in any county having a population in excess of seven hundred fifty thousand (750,000), according to the 2000 federal census or any subsequent federal census, police service technicians are authorized to issue traffic citations in lieu of arrest pursuant to § 55-10-207 .
(2) For the purposes of subdivision (f)(1) only, "police service technician" means a person appointed by the director of police services, who responds to requests for service at accident locations and obtains information, investigates accidents and provides other services to assist the police unit, fire unit, ambulance, emergency rescue and towing service.
(g) For purposes of this section, acceptable electronic formats include display of electronic images on a cellular phone or any other type of portable electronic device.
(h) If a person displays the evidence in an electronic format pursuant to this section, the person is not consenting for law enforcement to access any other contents of the electronic device.
Amended by 2019 Tenn. Acts, ch. 246,s 1, eff. 5/2/2019.
Amended by 2015 Tenn. Acts, ch. 511,s 3, s4, s5 eff. 1/1/2016.
Amended by 2015 Tenn. Acts, ch. 511,s 2, eff. 1/1/2016.
Amended by 2013 Tenn. Acts, ch. 479,s 1, eff. 7/1/2013.
Amended by 2013 Tenn. Acts, ch. 327,s1, s2 eff. 5/13/2013.
Acts 2001, ch. 292, § 1; 2002, ch. 648, § 1; 2005, ch. 401, § 1; 2008, ch. 1169, § 1; 2009, ch. 370, § 1; 2009, ch. 441, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-16-105 — TN Code / Title 55 / Chapter 16 / Section 55-16-105
[Repealed]
Status: repealed

Repealed by 2024 Tenn. Acts, ch. 1017,s 1, eff. 7/1/2024. Amended by 2023 Tenn. Acts, ch. 229, s 6, eff. 4/25/2023. Amended by 2023 Tenn. Acts, ch. 229, s 5, eff. 4/25/2023. Amended by 2023 Tenn. Acts, ch. 229, s 4, eff. 4/25/2023. Amended by 2018 Tenn. Acts, ch. 850, Secs.s 1, s 2eff. 4/26/2018. Amended by 2014 Tenn. Acts, ch. 548, s 1, eff. 7/1/2014. Acts 1967, ch. 250, § 3; 1976, ch. 419, § 1; T.C.A., § 59-1605; Acts 1989, ch. 182, §§ 2, 3; 1994, ch. 635, § 3; 1996, ch. 868, § 4; 1998, ch. 760, § 4; 1998, ch. 1074, §1; 2010 , ch. 984, §§1, 2; 2011 , ch. 30, §§1, 2; 2011 , ch. 244, §1; 2012 , ch. 750, § 1.
Repealed by 2024 Tenn. Acts, ch. 1017,s 1, eff. 7/1/2024.
Amended by 2023 Tenn. Acts, ch. 229, s 6, eff. 4/25/2023.
Amended by 2023 Tenn. Acts, ch. 229, s 5, eff. 4/25/2023.
Amended by 2023 Tenn. Acts, ch. 229, s 4, eff. 4/25/2023.
Amended by 2018 Tenn. Acts, ch. 850, Secs.s 1, s 2eff. 4/26/2018.
Amended by 2014 Tenn. Acts, ch. 548, s 1, eff. 7/1/2014.
Acts 1967, ch. 250, § 3; 1976, ch. 419, § 1; T.C.A., § 59-1605; Acts 1989, ch. 182, §§ 2, 3; 1994, ch. 635, § 3; 1996, ch. 868, § 4; 1998, ch. 760, § 4; 1998, ch. 1074, §1; 2010 , ch. 984, §§1, 2; 2011 , ch. 30, §§1, 2; 2011 , ch. 244, §1; 2012 , ch. 750, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-8-210 — TN Code / Title 55 / Chapter 8 / Section 55-8-210
Operation of golf cart on public roadway within boundaries of retail and entertainment district
Status: in_force

(a) As used in this section, "retail and entertainment district" means an area that meets the geographical description set forth in § 57-4-102(29)(D)(ii) (b) . (b) The governing body of any municipality having a population of not less than one hundred sixty-six thousand seven hundred (166,700) and not more than one hundred sixty-six thousand eight hundred (166,800), according to the 2020 and any subsequent federal census, may authorize and regulate the operation of a golf cart on any public roadway within the boundaries of a retail and entertainment district that is not a part of the interstate and national defense highway system, when the roadway is closed to motor vehicular traffic, upon the governing body of the municipality adopting an ordinance by a two-thirds (2/3) vote specifying each roadway that is open for golf cart use. The municipality shall provide written notification to the department of safety prior to such ordinance becoming effective. (c) The ordinance must require that a golf cart operated on a designated public roadway: (1) Be issued a permit for the golf cart by the municipality; and (2) Display a sticker or permit that identifies that the golf cart is allowed to be operated on specific roadways closed to motor vehicular traffic within the boundaries of the retail and entertainment district. (d) Following the adoption of such an ordinance, a person who owns, operates, or is employed by a business establishment located within or adjacent to the retail and entertainment district may operate a golf cart on a public roadway closed to motor vehicular traffic pursuant to subsection (b) if: (1) The posted speed limit of the designated public roadway is thirty-five miles per hour (35 mph) or less; (2) The operator of the golf cart does not cross a roadway having a posted speed limit of more than thirty-five miles per hour (35 mph); (3) The golf cart is being operated between one-half (1/2) hour after sunrise and one-half (1/2) hour before sunset; (4) The operator and any passengers in the front seat are restrained by a safety belt at all times the golf cart is in forward motion; (5) The golf cart is equipped with the following: (A) Headlights; (B) A tail lamp, stop lights, and reflectors or an emblem or placard for slow-moving vehicles; (C) A mirror; and (D) Brakes; (6) The headlights of the golf cart are displayed during operation; and (7) The driver possesses a valid driver license. (e) Any person operating a golf cart on a public roadway closed to motor vehicular traffic under this section is subject to this chapter. (f) This section does not apply to a golf cart that is not used on a public roadway except to cross a roadway while following a golf cart path on a golf course. Added by 2022 Tenn. Acts, ch. 772, s 1, eff. 7/1/2022.
(a) As used in this section, "retail and entertainment district" means an area that meets the geographical description set forth in § 57-4-102(29)(D)(ii) (b) .
(b) The governing body of any municipality having a population of not less than one hundred sixty-six thousand seven hundred (166,700) and not more than one hundred sixty-six thousand eight hundred (166,800), according to the 2020 and any subsequent federal census, may authorize and regulate the operation of a golf cart on any public roadway within the boundaries of a retail and entertainment district that is not a part of the interstate and national defense highway system, when the roadway is closed to motor vehicular traffic, upon the governing body of the municipality adopting an ordinance by a two-thirds (2/3) vote specifying each roadway that is open for golf cart use. The municipality shall provide written notification to the department of safety prior to such ordinance becoming effective.
(c) The ordinance must require that a golf cart operated on a designated public roadway: (1) Be issued a permit for the golf cart by the municipality; and (2) Display a sticker or permit that identifies that the golf cart is allowed to be operated on specific roadways closed to motor vehicular traffic within the boundaries of the retail and entertainment district.
(1) Be issued a permit for the golf cart by the municipality; and
(2) Display a sticker or permit that identifies that the golf cart is allowed to be operated on specific roadways closed to motor vehicular traffic within the boundaries of the retail and entertainment district.
(d) Following the adoption of such an ordinance, a person who owns, operates, or is employed by a business establishment located within or adjacent to the retail and entertainment district may operate a golf cart on a public roadway closed to motor vehicular traffic pursuant to subsection (b) if: (1) The posted speed limit of the designated public roadway is thirty-five miles per hour (35 mph) or less; (2) The operator of the golf cart does not cross a roadway having a posted speed limit of more than thirty-five miles per hour (35 mph); (3) The golf cart is being operated between one-half (1/2) hour after sunrise and one-half (1/2) hour before sunset; (4) The operator and any passengers in the front seat are restrained by a safety belt at all times the golf cart is in forward motion; (5) The golf cart is equipped with the following: (A) Headlights; (B) A tail lamp, stop lights, and reflectors or an emblem or placard for slow-moving vehicles; (C) A mirror; and (D) Brakes; (6) The headlights of the golf cart are displayed during operation; and (7) The driver possesses a valid driver license.
(1) The posted speed limit of the designated public roadway is thirty-five miles per hour (35 mph) or less;
(2) The operator of the golf cart does not cross a roadway having a posted speed limit of more than thirty-five miles per hour (35 mph);
(3) The golf cart is being operated between one-half (1/2) hour after sunrise and one-half (1/2) hour before sunset;
(4) The operator and any passengers in the front seat are restrained by a safety belt at all times the golf cart is in forward motion;
(5) The golf cart is equipped with the following: (A) Headlights; (B) A tail lamp, stop lights, and reflectors or an emblem or placard for slow-moving vehicles; (C) A mirror; and (D) Brakes;
(A) Headlights;
(B) A tail lamp, stop lights, and reflectors or an emblem or placard for slow-moving vehicles;
(C) A mirror; and
(D) Brakes;
(6) The headlights of the golf cart are displayed during operation; and
(7) The driver possesses a valid driver license.
(e) Any person operating a golf cart on a public roadway closed to motor vehicular traffic under this section is subject to this chapter.
(f) This section does not apply to a golf cart that is not used on a public roadway except to cross a roadway while following a golf cart path on a golf course.
Added by 2022 Tenn. Acts, ch. 772, s 1, eff. 7/1/2022.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-5-116 — TN Code / Title 55 / Chapter 5 / Section 55-5-116
Altering, falsifying or forging evidences of title, assignments or plates a felony
Status: in_force

It is a Class E felony for any person to: (1) Alter with fraudulent intent any certificate of title, certificate of registration, registration plate, or permit issued by the department or any county clerk of this state by virtue of chapters 1-6 of this title; (2) Alter or falsify with fraudulent intent or forge any assignment upon a certificate of title; or (3) Hold or use the document or plate, knowing the document or plate to have been altered, forged or falsified. Acts 1951, ch. 70, § 79 (Williams, § 5538.179); T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 59-512; Acts 1972, ch. 540, § 11; impl. am. Acts 1978, ch. 934, §§ 22, 36; T.C.A., § 59-517; Acts 1990, ch. 1030, § 41; 2007, ch. 484, § 70.
It is a Class E felony for any person to:
(1) Alter with fraudulent intent any certificate of title, certificate of registration, registration plate, or permit issued by the department or any county clerk of this state by virtue of chapters 1-6 of this title;
(2) Alter or falsify with fraudulent intent or forge any assignment upon a certificate of title; or
(3) Hold or use the document or plate, knowing the document or plate to have been altered, forged or falsified.
Acts 1951, ch. 70, § 79 (Williams, § 5538.179); T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 59-512; Acts 1972, ch. 540, § 11; impl. am. Acts 1978, ch. 934, §§ 22, 36; T.C.A., § 59-517; Acts 1990, ch. 1030, § 41; 2007, ch. 484, § 70.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-50-408 — TN Code / Title 55 / Chapter 50 / Section 55-50-408
Driving under the influence
Status: in_force

For purposes of this chapter and § 55-10-401 , any person who drives, operates or exercises physical control of a commercial motor vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration of four hundredths of one percent (0.04%) or more commits the offense of driving while under the influence of alcohol, in violation of § 55-50-405 . 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 , 55-7-408; Acts 2009, ch. 321, § 27.
For purposes of this chapter and § 55-10-401 , any person who drives, operates or exercises physical control of a commercial motor vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration of four hundredths of one percent (0.04%) or more commits the offense of driving while under the influence of alcohol, in violation of § 55-50-405 .
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 , 55-7-408; Acts 2009, ch. 321, § 27.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-3-201 — TN Code / Title 55 / Chapter 3 / Section 55-3-201
Part definitions
Status: in_force

As used in this part, unless the context otherwise requires: (1) "Automotive dismantler and recycler" means a person who engages in the business of acquiring salvage vehicles for the purpose of recovering parts for resale; (2) "Flood vehicle" means any passenger motor vehicle which has sustained substantial water damage as determined by departmental rules and regulations. Disclosure that a passenger motor vehicle has become a flood vehicle shall be made at the time of transfer of ownership, and the next certificate of title issued after the transfer shall be conspicuously labeled with the word "Flood" across the front; (3) "Methamphetamine vehicle" means any motor vehicle subject to registration and certificate of title provisions that has been impounded by a law enforcement agency based on a charge of manufacture of methamphetamine on or within the vehicle and determined to be contaminated pursuant to the standards developed pursuant to title 68, chapter 212, part 5, and for which the department has received a notice of motor vehicle impoundment for manufacture of methamphetamine pursuant to § 55-3-210 . Disclosure that a motor vehicle has become a methamphetamine vehicle shall be made upon the department's receipt of such notice by issuance of a new certificate of title conspicuously labeled with the language "Methamphetamine Vehicle" across the front. Upon any subsequent transfer of ownership, the next certificate of title issued after the transfer shall be conspicuously labeled with the language "Methamphetamine Vehicle" across the front; (4) "Nonrepairable vehicle" means any passenger motor vehicle which is incapable of safe operation for use on roads or highways and which has no resale value except as a source of parts or scrap only or which the owner irreversibly designates as a source of parts or scrap. "Nonrepairable vehicle" includes, but is not limited to, any passenger motor vehicle which has sustained salt water damage as a result of salt water entering the passenger compartment. A nonrepairable vehicle shall be issued a nonrepairable vehicle certificate and shall never again be titled or registered; (5) "Nonrepairable vehicle certificate" means a passenger motor vehicle ownership document issued by the state to the owner of a nonrepairable vehicle. Ownership of the passenger motor vehicle may only be transferred two (2) times on a nonrepairable vehicle certificate. A passenger motor vehicle for which a nonrepairable vehicle certificate has been issued can never be titled or registered for use on roads or highways. A nonrepairable vehicle certificate shall be conspicuously labeled with the word "Nonrepairable" across the front; (6) "Passenger motor vehicle" means any vehicle driven or drawn by mechanical power manufactured primarily for use on the public streets, roads and highways that is ten (10) model years old or less, including a multipurpose passenger vehicle or light duty truck when that vehicle or truck is rated at not more than nine thousand pounds (9,000 lbs.) gross vehicle weight; "passenger motor vehicle" also includes a motorcycle, as defined in § 55-1-103 ; (7) "Rebuilt title" means the passenger motor vehicle ownership document issued by the state to the owner of a rebuilt vehicle. Ownership of the passenger motor vehicle may be transferred on a rebuilt title, and a passenger motor vehicle for which a rebuilt title has been issued may be registered for use on the roads and highways. A rebuilt title shall be conspicuously labeled with the words "Rebuilt Vehicle - Anti-theft Inspections Passed" across the front; (8) "Rebuilt vehicle" means any passenger motor vehicle which was previously issued a salvage title; has passed state anti-theft inspections; was issued an affidavit pursuant to § 55-3-206 that the passenger motor vehicle was rebuilt to required standards; has been issued a certificate indicating that the passenger motor vehicle has passed the required anti-theft inspections; and has a decal stating "Rebuilt Vehicle - Anti-theft Inspections Passed" affixed to the driver's door jamb; (9) "Salvage pool operator" means a person who engages in the business of selling salvage vehicles at auction, including wholesale auction, or otherwise; (10) "Salvage title" means a passenger motor vehicle ownership document issued by the state to the owner of a salvage vehicle. Ownership of the passenger motor vehicle may be transferred on a salvage title; however, a passenger motor vehicle for which a salvage title has been issued shall not be registered for use on the roads or highways unless it has been issued a rebuilt title. A salvage title shall be conspicuously labeled with the word "Salvage" across the front; (11) (A) "Salvage vehicle" means any passenger motor vehicle which has been wrecked, destroyed, or damaged to the extent that the total estimated or actual cost of parts and labor to rebuild or reconstruct the passenger motor vehicle to its pre-accident condition and for legal operation on the roads or highways exceeds seventy-five percent (75%) of the retail value of the passenger motor vehicle, as set forth in a current edition of any nationally recognized compilation (to include automated databases) of retail values; (B) The value of repair parts for purposes of this subdivision (11) shall be determined by using the current published retail cost of the repair parts to be used in the repair, or in the absence of a published retail cost the reasonable and customary cost in the community where repair parts are purchased; (C) The labor cost of repairs for purposes of this subdivision (11) shall be computed by using the hourly labor rate and time allocations that are reasonable and customary in the automobile repair industry in the community where the repairs are performed; (D) "Salvage vehicle" also includes, without regard to whether such passenger motor vehicle meets the seventy-five percent (75%) threshold specified in the first sentence, any passenger motor vehicle whose owner may wish to designate as a salvage vehicle by obtaining a salvage title, without regard to the extent of the passenger motor vehicle's damage and repairs. This designation by the owner shall not impose on the insurer of the passenger motor vehicle or on an insurer processing a claim made by or on behalf of the owner of the passenger motor vehicle any obligations or liabilities; and (12) "Scrap metal processor" means any person who is engaged in the business of buying nonrepairable vehicles, automotive parts, or other metallic material by weight to process this material into scrap metal for remelting purposes; which utilizes machinery and equipment for processing ferrous and nonferrous metallic scrap into prepared grades; and whose principal product is metallic scrap. Amended by 2020 Tenn. Acts, ch. 675, s 2, eff. 10/1/2020. Amended by 2016 Tenn. Acts, ch. 691, s 1, eff. 3/24/2016. Acts 1996, ch. 552, § 3; 1996, ch. 839, § 3; 2007 , ch. 484, § 32; 2011 , ch. 397, §§ 1, 2.
As used in this part, unless the context otherwise requires:
(1) "Automotive dismantler and recycler" means a person who engages in the business of acquiring salvage vehicles for the purpose of recovering parts for resale;
(2) "Flood vehicle" means any passenger motor vehicle which has sustained substantial water damage as determined by departmental rules and regulations. Disclosure that a passenger motor vehicle has become a flood vehicle shall be made at the time of transfer of ownership, and the next certificate of title issued after the transfer shall be conspicuously labeled with the word "Flood" across the front;
(3) "Methamphetamine vehicle" means any motor vehicle subject to registration and certificate of title provisions that has been impounded by a law enforcement agency based on a charge of manufacture of methamphetamine on or within the vehicle and determined to be contaminated pursuant to the standards developed pursuant to title 68, chapter 212, part 5, and for which the department has received a notice of motor vehicle impoundment for manufacture of methamphetamine pursuant to § 55-3-210 . Disclosure that a motor vehicle has become a methamphetamine vehicle shall be made upon the department's receipt of such notice by issuance of a new certificate of title conspicuously labeled with the language "Methamphetamine Vehicle" across the front. Upon any subsequent transfer of ownership, the next certificate of title issued after the transfer shall be conspicuously labeled with the language "Methamphetamine Vehicle" across the front;
(4) "Nonrepairable vehicle" means any passenger motor vehicle which is incapable of safe operation for use on roads or highways and which has no resale value except as a source of parts or scrap only or which the owner irreversibly designates as a source of parts or scrap. "Nonrepairable vehicle" includes, but is not limited to, any passenger motor vehicle which has sustained salt water damage as a result of salt water entering the passenger compartment. A nonrepairable vehicle shall be issued a nonrepairable vehicle certificate and shall never again be titled or registered;
(5) "Nonrepairable vehicle certificate" means a passenger motor vehicle ownership document issued by the state to the owner of a nonrepairable vehicle. Ownership of the passenger motor vehicle may only be transferred two (2) times on a nonrepairable vehicle certificate. A passenger motor vehicle for which a nonrepairable vehicle certificate has been issued can never be titled or registered for use on roads or highways. A nonrepairable vehicle certificate shall be conspicuously labeled with the word "Nonrepairable" across the front;
(6) "Passenger motor vehicle" means any vehicle driven or drawn by mechanical power manufactured primarily for use on the public streets, roads and highways that is ten (10) model years old or less, including a multipurpose passenger vehicle or light duty truck when that vehicle or truck is rated at not more than nine thousand pounds (9,000 lbs.) gross vehicle weight; "passenger motor vehicle" also includes a motorcycle, as defined in § 55-1-103 ;
(7) "Rebuilt title" means the passenger motor vehicle ownership document issued by the state to the owner of a rebuilt vehicle. Ownership of the passenger motor vehicle may be transferred on a rebuilt title, and a passenger motor vehicle for which a rebuilt title has been issued may be registered for use on the roads and highways. A rebuilt title shall be conspicuously labeled with the words "Rebuilt Vehicle - Anti-theft Inspections Passed" across the front;
(8) "Rebuilt vehicle" means any passenger motor vehicle which was previously issued a salvage title; has passed state anti-theft inspections; was issued an affidavit pursuant to § 55-3-206 that the passenger motor vehicle was rebuilt to required standards; has been issued a certificate indicating that the passenger motor vehicle has passed the required anti-theft inspections; and has a decal stating "Rebuilt Vehicle - Anti-theft Inspections Passed" affixed to the driver's door jamb;
(9) "Salvage pool operator" means a person who engages in the business of selling salvage vehicles at auction, including wholesale auction, or otherwise;
(10) "Salvage title" means a passenger motor vehicle ownership document issued by the state to the owner of a salvage vehicle. Ownership of the passenger motor vehicle may be transferred on a salvage title; however, a passenger motor vehicle for which a salvage title has been issued shall not be registered for use on the roads or highways unless it has been issued a rebuilt title. A salvage title shall be conspicuously labeled with the word "Salvage" across the front;
(11) (A) "Salvage vehicle" means any passenger motor vehicle which has been wrecked, destroyed, or damaged to the extent that the total estimated or actual cost of parts and labor to rebuild or reconstruct the passenger motor vehicle to its pre-accident condition and for legal operation on the roads or highways exceeds seventy-five percent (75%) of the retail value of the passenger motor vehicle, as set forth in a current edition of any nationally recognized compilation (to include automated databases) of retail values; (B) The value of repair parts for purposes of this subdivision (11) shall be determined by using the current published retail cost of the repair parts to be used in the repair, or in the absence of a published retail cost the reasonable and customary cost in the community where repair parts are purchased; (C) The labor cost of repairs for purposes of this subdivision (11) shall be computed by using the hourly labor rate and time allocations that are reasonable and customary in the automobile repair industry in the community where the repairs are performed; (D) "Salvage vehicle" also includes, without regard to whether such passenger motor vehicle meets the seventy-five percent (75%) threshold specified in the first sentence, any passenger motor vehicle whose owner may wish to designate as a salvage vehicle by obtaining a salvage title, without regard to the extent of the passenger motor vehicle's damage and repairs. This designation by the owner shall not impose on the insurer of the passenger motor vehicle or on an insurer processing a claim made by or on behalf of the owner of the passenger motor vehicle any obligations or liabilities; and
(A) "Salvage vehicle" means any passenger motor vehicle which has been wrecked, destroyed, or damaged to the extent that the total estimated or actual cost of parts and labor to rebuild or reconstruct the passenger motor vehicle to its pre-accident condition and for legal operation on the roads or highways exceeds seventy-five percent (75%) of the retail value of the passenger motor vehicle, as set forth in a current edition of any nationally recognized compilation (to include automated databases) of retail values;
(B) The value of repair parts for purposes of this subdivision (11) shall be determined by using the current published retail cost of the repair parts to be used in the repair, or in the absence of a published retail cost the reasonable and customary cost in the community where repair parts are purchased;
(C) The labor cost of repairs for purposes of this subdivision (11) shall be computed by using the hourly labor rate and time allocations that are reasonable and customary in the automobile repair industry in the community where the repairs are performed;
(D) "Salvage vehicle" also includes, without regard to whether such passenger motor vehicle meets the seventy-five percent (75%) threshold specified in the first sentence, any passenger motor vehicle whose owner may wish to designate as a salvage vehicle by obtaining a salvage title, without regard to the extent of the passenger motor vehicle's damage and repairs. This designation by the owner shall not impose on the insurer of the passenger motor vehicle or on an insurer processing a claim made by or on behalf of the owner of the passenger motor vehicle any obligations or liabilities; and
(12) "Scrap metal processor" means any person who is engaged in the business of buying nonrepairable vehicles, automotive parts, or other metallic material by weight to process this material into scrap metal for remelting purposes; which utilizes machinery and equipment for processing ferrous and nonferrous metallic scrap into prepared grades; and whose principal product is metallic scrap.
Amended by 2020 Tenn. Acts, ch. 675, s 2, eff. 10/1/2020.
Amended by 2016 Tenn. Acts, ch. 691, s 1, eff. 3/24/2016.
Acts 1996, ch. 552, § 3; 1996, ch. 839, § 3; 2007 , ch. 484, § 32; 2011 , ch. 397, §§ 1, 2.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-10-315 — TN Code / Title 55 / Chapter 10 / Section 55-10-315
Traffic violation conviction fee
Status: in_force

(a) Any municipality with a population of not less than one hundred sixty thousand (160,000) nor more than one hundred seventy thousand (170,000), according to the 1990 federal census or any subsequent federal census, by ordinance may levy a fee of up to seventy-five cents (75¢), to be collected on all convictions for traffic violations when the traffic citation was issued or the arrest was effected by a law enforcement officer of the municipality. "Traffic violation" for purposes of this section means a violation of any provision of chapter 8 or 9 of this title or parts 1-5 of this chapter, or a violation of a municipal ordinance regulating traffic, or both state law and local ordinance violations. Municipal ordinances regulating traffic include those that regulate parking. (b) When the ordinance levying the fee applies to state traffic law violations, the municipal recorder, clerk, or other record keeping official shall forward a certified copy of the ordinance to the court handling traffic violations for the area in which the municipality is located. The court shall then collect the fee in accordance with the terms of the ordinance and remit revenues from the fee to the municipality monthly. (c) Revenues from the fee shall be used by the municipality for traffic safety, traffic education and drug education programs. (d) In addition to the fee authorized in subsection (a), those municipalities designated in subsection (a) may also by ordinance levy a fee of up to two dollars ($2.00) on each conviction for a traffic violation when the traffic citation is issued or the arrest is effected by a law enforcement officer of the municipality. Except for subsection (c), all pertinent provisions of this section applicable to the fee authorized in subsection (a) shall also apply to the fee authorized by this subsection (d). Revenues from the fee authorized in this subsection (d) shall be used to purchase or maintain, or both, an automated information system to support enforcement of traffic safety laws. Acts 1992, ch. 685, § 1; 1993, ch. 52, § 1.
(a) Any municipality with a population of not less than one hundred sixty thousand (160,000) nor more than one hundred seventy thousand (170,000), according to the 1990 federal census or any subsequent federal census, by ordinance may levy a fee of up to seventy-five cents (75¢), to be collected on all convictions for traffic violations when the traffic citation was issued or the arrest was effected by a law enforcement officer of the municipality. "Traffic violation" for purposes of this section means a violation of any provision of chapter 8 or 9 of this title or parts 1-5 of this chapter, or a violation of a municipal ordinance regulating traffic, or both state law and local ordinance violations. Municipal ordinances regulating traffic include those that regulate parking.
(b) When the ordinance levying the fee applies to state traffic law violations, the municipal recorder, clerk, or other record keeping official shall forward a certified copy of the ordinance to the court handling traffic violations for the area in which the municipality is located. The court shall then collect the fee in accordance with the terms of the ordinance and remit revenues from the fee to the municipality monthly.
(c) Revenues from the fee shall be used by the municipality for traffic safety, traffic education and drug education programs.
(d) In addition to the fee authorized in subsection (a), those municipalities designated in subsection (a) may also by ordinance levy a fee of up to two dollars ($2.00) on each conviction for a traffic violation when the traffic citation is issued or the arrest is effected by a law enforcement officer of the municipality. Except for subsection (c), all pertinent provisions of this section applicable to the fee authorized in subsection (a) shall also apply to the fee authorized by this subsection (d). Revenues from the fee authorized in this subsection (d) shall be used to purchase or maintain, or both, an automated information system to support enforcement of traffic safety laws.
Acts 1992, ch. 685, § 1; 1993, ch. 52, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-12-101 — TN Code / Title 55 / Chapter 12 / Section 55-12-101
Short title
Status: in_force

This part shall be known and may be cited as the "Tennessee Financial Responsibility Law of 1977." Acts 1977, ch. 446, § 1; T.C.A., § 59-1251.
This part shall be known and may be cited as the "Tennessee Financial Responsibility Law of 1977."
Acts 1977, ch. 446, § 1; T.C.A., § 59-1251.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-4-141 — TN Code / Title 55 / Chapter 4 / Section 55-4-141
Authority of department of revenue to issue, suspend, or revoke a registration, permit, plate, or certificate of certain motor carriers
Status: in_force

(a) (1) The department or its agent is authorized to refuse to issue or transfer a registration, license plate, permit, or a certificate of title on a vehicle that has been assigned to a motor carrier that has been prohibited from operating by the federal motor carrier safety administration; provided, that the department or its agent may allow a motor carrier that has been prohibited from operating by the federal motor carrier safety administration to transfer a title if the motor carrier does not retain an interest, either directly or indirectly, in the vehicle. (2) The department or its agent is authorized to suspend or revoke the registration, license plate, permit, or certificate of title issued to any vehicle assigned to a motor carrier that has been prohibited from operating by the federal motor carrier safety administration. (b) The department shall deny registration for a vehicle assigned to a motor carrier that has been prohibited from operating by the federal motor carrier safety administration for safety reasons or a carrier whose business is operated, managed, or otherwise controlled by or affiliated with a person who is ineligible for registration, including an applicant, owner, corporate officer, or shareholder of the carrier or a relative of any such persons. For purposes of this section, "relative" means husband, wife, son, daughter, brother, sister, father, mother, brother-in-law, sister-in-law, father-in-law, mother-in-law, son-in-law, or daughter-in-law. (c) If a prohibition from operating by the federal motor carrier safety administration is rescinded, the department or its agent may issue a registration, license plate, permit, or certificate of title to the motor carrier; provided, that all other taxes and fees have been paid to the department. Added by 2019 Tenn. Acts, ch. 70,s 1, eff. 10/1/2019.
(a) (1) The department or its agent is authorized to refuse to issue or transfer a registration, license plate, permit, or a certificate of title on a vehicle that has been assigned to a motor carrier that has been prohibited from operating by the federal motor carrier safety administration; provided, that the department or its agent may allow a motor carrier that has been prohibited from operating by the federal motor carrier safety administration to transfer a title if the motor carrier does not retain an interest, either directly or indirectly, in the vehicle. (2) The department or its agent is authorized to suspend or revoke the registration, license plate, permit, or certificate of title issued to any vehicle assigned to a motor carrier that has been prohibited from operating by the federal motor carrier safety administration.
(1) The department or its agent is authorized to refuse to issue or transfer a registration, license plate, permit, or a certificate of title on a vehicle that has been assigned to a motor carrier that has been prohibited from operating by the federal motor carrier safety administration; provided, that the department or its agent may allow a motor carrier that has been prohibited from operating by the federal motor carrier safety administration to transfer a title if the motor carrier does not retain an interest, either directly or indirectly, in the vehicle.
(2) The department or its agent is authorized to suspend or revoke the registration, license plate, permit, or certificate of title issued to any vehicle assigned to a motor carrier that has been prohibited from operating by the federal motor carrier safety administration.
(b) The department shall deny registration for a vehicle assigned to a motor carrier that has been prohibited from operating by the federal motor carrier safety administration for safety reasons or a carrier whose business is operated, managed, or otherwise controlled by or affiliated with a person who is ineligible for registration, including an applicant, owner, corporate officer, or shareholder of the carrier or a relative of any such persons. For purposes of this section, "relative" means husband, wife, son, daughter, brother, sister, father, mother, brother-in-law, sister-in-law, father-in-law, mother-in-law, son-in-law, or daughter-in-law.
(c) If a prohibition from operating by the federal motor carrier safety administration is rescinded, the department or its agent may issue a registration, license plate, permit, or certificate of title to the motor carrier; provided, that all other taxes and fees have been paid to the department.
Added by 2019 Tenn. Acts, ch. 70,s 1, eff. 10/1/2019.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-20-306 — TN Code / Title 55 / Chapter 20 / Section 55-20-306
Printing of form and assembling yellow dot folders with forms and decals for participants - No fee for participation
Status: in_force

(a) The department of transportation may provide for, assist in, or authorize the printing of the medical information form and assembling of a yellow dot folder containing the medical information form and a yellow dot decal with an adhesive backing. (b) Upon request, the department may provide yellow dot folders to the agencies and nonprofit organizations identified in § 55-20-304 , subject to the limitations of resources for funding the program, and/or the department may allow such agencies and organizations to copy the medical information form and assemble yellow dot folders for distribution to participants, or the department may authorize these agencies and organizations to prepare yellow dot folders for distribution. (c) The department may also provide for dissemination of the medical information form and other yellow dot materials through the internet. (d) The department shall not charge any fee to participate in the yellow dot program. Acts 2012, ch. 804, § 7.
(a) The department of transportation may provide for, assist in, or authorize the printing of the medical information form and assembling of a yellow dot folder containing the medical information form and a yellow dot decal with an adhesive backing.
(b) Upon request, the department may provide yellow dot folders to the agencies and nonprofit organizations identified in § 55-20-304 , subject to the limitations of resources for funding the program, and/or the department may allow such agencies and organizations to copy the medical information form and assemble yellow dot folders for distribution to participants, or the department may authorize these agencies and organizations to prepare yellow dot folders for distribution.
(c) The department may also provide for dissemination of the medical information form and other yellow dot materials through the internet.
(d) The department shall not charge any fee to participate in the yellow dot program.
Acts 2012, ch. 804, § 7.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-3-127 — TN Code / Title 55 / Chapter 3 / Section 55-3-127
Misdemeanors enumerated - Failure to endorse or deliver certificate - Discharge lien - Report discharge of lien - Transferees - Sales and use tax - Impoundment or abandonment of vehicles - Endorsement of change in ownership on title or registration
Status: in_force

(a) It is a Class C misdemeanor for any person to fail or neglect to properly endorse or deliver any certificate of title to the department, a transferee, or other person lawfully entitled to the certificate of title. (b) It is a Class C misdemeanor for any lienor, including a mortgagee or a vendor, to fail or neglect upon the discharge of the lien, mortgage or encumbrance, to properly discharge the lien in the manner provided for in this part and, if the certificate of title be in the lienor's possession, to fail to deliver the certificate to the person entitled to the certificate. (c) It is a Class C misdemeanor for any lienor whose lien has been discharged to fail to report the discharge to the department within seventy-two (72) hours from the date of discharge by registered mail, return receipt demanded. (d) It is a Class C misdemeanor for any transferor to fail or neglect to enter the transferee name on a properly endorsed certificate of title before delivery to the transferee. (e) It is a Class C misdemeanor for any person to possess an executed certificate of title without the name of the transferee appearing on the certificate of title. (f) Any person found to be in violation of subsection (d) or (e) shall be liable for the sales or use tax on the fair market value of the vehicle as is determined by reference to the most recent issue of an authoritative automotive pricing manual, such as the NADA Official Used Car Guide, Southeastern Edition, or by an appraisal by a duly licensed motor vehicle dealer in the state, plus a twenty-five percent (25%) penalty. (g) Any person found to be in possession of a vehicle with an improperly assigned title which fails to identify the transferee must immediately establish ownership of the vehicle, register the vehicle and pay the required tax and penalty. The vehicle will be impounded by state or local law enforcement officials until the person in possession can prove ownership or until the rightful owner is located. In the event the rightful owner cannot be established within thirty (30) days, the vehicle will be deemed abandoned and will be disposed of by the commissioner of safety. (h) Insurance companies authorized to underwrite policies on motor vehicles as a result of a paid claim are authorized to endorse change in ownership on the certificate of title or registration without obtaining a new certificate of title or registration or registering with the department for sales and use tax purposes. Acts 1951, ch. 70, § 55 (Williams, § 5538.155); Acts 1972, ch. 540, § 6; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 59-328; Acts 1987, ch. 326, § 1; 1989, ch. 591, § 113; 2007, ch. 484, § 27.
(a) It is a Class C misdemeanor for any person to fail or neglect to properly endorse or deliver any certificate of title to the department, a transferee, or other person lawfully entitled to the certificate of title.
(b) It is a Class C misdemeanor for any lienor, including a mortgagee or a vendor, to fail or neglect upon the discharge of the lien, mortgage or encumbrance, to properly discharge the lien in the manner provided for in this part and, if the certificate of title be in the lienor's possession, to fail to deliver the certificate to the person entitled to the certificate.
(c) It is a Class C misdemeanor for any lienor whose lien has been discharged to fail to report the discharge to the department within seventy-two (72) hours from the date of discharge by registered mail, return receipt demanded.
(d) It is a Class C misdemeanor for any transferor to fail or neglect to enter the transferee name on a properly endorsed certificate of title before delivery to the transferee.
(e) It is a Class C misdemeanor for any person to possess an executed certificate of title without the name of the transferee appearing on the certificate of title.
(f) Any person found to be in violation of subsection (d) or (e) shall be liable for the sales or use tax on the fair market value of the vehicle as is determined by reference to the most recent issue of an authoritative automotive pricing manual, such as the NADA Official Used Car Guide, Southeastern Edition, or by an appraisal by a duly licensed motor vehicle dealer in the state, plus a twenty-five percent (25%) penalty.
(g) Any person found to be in possession of a vehicle with an improperly assigned title which fails to identify the transferee must immediately establish ownership of the vehicle, register the vehicle and pay the required tax and penalty. The vehicle will be impounded by state or local law enforcement officials until the person in possession can prove ownership or until the rightful owner is located. In the event the rightful owner cannot be established within thirty (30) days, the vehicle will be deemed abandoned and will be disposed of by the commissioner of safety.
(h) Insurance companies authorized to underwrite policies on motor vehicles as a result of a paid claim are authorized to endorse change in ownership on the certificate of title or registration without obtaining a new certificate of title or registration or registering with the department for sales and use tax purposes.
Acts 1951, ch. 70, § 55 (Williams, § 5538.155); Acts 1972, ch. 540, § 6; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 59-328; Acts 1987, ch. 326, § 1; 1989, ch. 591, § 113; 2007, ch. 484, § 27.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-2-104 — TN Code / Title 55 / Chapter 2 / Section 55-2-104
Forms - Prescribing and providing by commissioner
Status: in_force

The commissioner shall prescribe and provide suitable forms of applications, certificates of title, and all other forms requisite or deemed necessary to carry out chapters 1-6 of this title. Acts 1951, ch. 70, § 19 (Williams, § 5538.119); modified; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 59-204.
The commissioner shall prescribe and provide suitable forms of applications, certificates of title, and all other forms requisite or deemed necessary to carry out chapters 1-6 of this title.
Acts 1951, ch. 70, § 19 (Williams, § 5538.119); modified; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 59-204.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-4-139 — TN Code / Title 55 / Chapter 4 / Section 55-4-139
Designation of owner or lessee of motor vehicle as deaf or hard of hearing
Status: in_force

(a) At the time of initial application for the registration of a motor vehicle under this part, or upon renewal, an owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is deaf or hard of hearing may request that the department include such designation in the Tennessee Vehicle Title and Registration System (VTRS) database. The registrant's request must be accompanied by a physician's statement supporting the registrant's request for a deaf or hard of hearing designation. Upon receipt of such a request accompanied by a valid physician's statement, the department shall cause the registrant's deaf or hard of hearing status to be entered into the VTRS database, and ensure such designation is associated with the applicant's motor vehicle and registration. (b) Information submitted to the department under this section shall be supplied to law enforcement to assist in identifying the operator of the vehicle as possibly being deaf or hard of hearing. Information collected pursuant to this section shall only be available to law enforcement for the purpose of ensuring safe and efficient interactions between law enforcement and persons who are deaf or hard of hearing, and shall not be used for any other purpose. (c) All law enforcement officers charged with the enforcement of this title and emergency call takers and public safety dispatchers, as described in § 7-86-205 , shall receive instruction in the identification of deaf or hard of hearing designation included in the VTRS database as provided for in this section. (d) The commissioner is authorized to adopt policies and procedures as necessary to effectuate the purposes of this section. Acts 2018, ch. 735, § 1.
(a) At the time of initial application for the registration of a motor vehicle under this part, or upon renewal, an owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is deaf or hard of hearing may request that the department include such designation in the Tennessee Vehicle Title and Registration System (VTRS) database. The registrant's request must be accompanied by a physician's statement supporting the registrant's request for a deaf or hard of hearing designation. Upon receipt of such a request accompanied by a valid physician's statement, the department shall cause the registrant's deaf or hard of hearing status to be entered into the VTRS database, and ensure such designation is associated with the applicant's motor vehicle and registration.
(b) Information submitted to the department under this section shall be supplied to law enforcement to assist in identifying the operator of the vehicle as possibly being deaf or hard of hearing. Information collected pursuant to this section shall only be available to law enforcement for the purpose of ensuring safe and efficient interactions between law enforcement and persons who are deaf or hard of hearing, and shall not be used for any other purpose.
(c) All law enforcement officers charged with the enforcement of this title and emergency call takers and public safety dispatchers, as described in § 7-86-205 , shall receive instruction in the identification of deaf or hard of hearing designation included in the VTRS database as provided for in this section.
(d) The commissioner is authorized to adopt policies and procedures as necessary to effectuate the purposes of this section.
Acts 2018, ch. 735, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-9-606 — TN Code / Title 55 / Chapter 9 / Section 55-9-606
Passengers over sixteen years of age - ADS-operated vehicle
Status: in_force

Notwithstanding this part to the contrary: (1) Except as otherwise provided in subdivision (2), the operator of a passenger motor vehicle under this part shall not be fined for the failure of any passenger over sixteen (16) years of age to wear a safety belt; and (2) For purposes of an ADS-operated vehicle and when the ADS is engaged, neither the operator nor the owner shall be fined for the failure of any passenger, regardless of age, to wear a safety belt. Amended by 2017 Tenn. Acts, ch. 474, s 9, eff. 6/6/2017. Acts 1986, ch. 866, § 10.
Notwithstanding this part to the contrary:
(1) Except as otherwise provided in subdivision (2), the operator of a passenger motor vehicle under this part shall not be fined for the failure of any passenger over sixteen (16) years of age to wear a safety belt; and
(2) For purposes of an ADS-operated vehicle and when the ADS is engaged, neither the operator nor the owner shall be fined for the failure of any passenger, regardless of age, to wear a safety belt.
Amended by 2017 Tenn. Acts, ch. 474, s 9, eff. 6/6/2017.
Acts 1986, ch. 866, § 10.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-31-304 — TN Code / Title 55 / Chapter 31 / Section 55-31-304
Garagekeepers
Status: in_force

(a) Notwithstanding this chapter to the contrary, the police department through its chief officer, after complying with § 55-31-302 , may execute a written waiver of its right to sell a vehicle taken into custody under this chapter in favor of a garagekeeper in whose possession the vehicle was lawfully placed by the police department under this chapter. If a garagekeeper has made repairs to a vehicle for which a waiver has been executed, then the garagekeeper may proceed to enforce the lien as provided in § 66-19-103 . If the garagekeeper has not made repairs to a vehicle for which a waiver has been executed, then the garagekeeper may proceed to sell the vehicle in accordance with the procedure established in § 55-31-303 . (b) As to third-party purchasers, the sale of the abandoned, immobile, or unattended vehicle is valid, but the garagekeeper shall sell the vehicle in a commercially reasonable manner. (c) A person injured as a result of a violation of subsection (b) is entitled to maintain a private right of action for injunctive relief and to recover actual damages, compensatory damages, punitive damages, and reasonable attorney fees against an alleged violator. Added by 2024 Tenn. Acts, ch. 1017,s 4, eff. 7/1/2024.
(a) Notwithstanding this chapter to the contrary, the police department through its chief officer, after complying with § 55-31-302 , may execute a written waiver of its right to sell a vehicle taken into custody under this chapter in favor of a garagekeeper in whose possession the vehicle was lawfully placed by the police department under this chapter. If a garagekeeper has made repairs to a vehicle for which a waiver has been executed, then the garagekeeper may proceed to enforce the lien as provided in § 66-19-103 . If the garagekeeper has not made repairs to a vehicle for which a waiver has been executed, then the garagekeeper may proceed to sell the vehicle in accordance with the procedure established in § 55-31-303 .
(b) As to third-party purchasers, the sale of the abandoned, immobile, or unattended vehicle is valid, but the garagekeeper shall sell the vehicle in a commercially reasonable manner.
(c) A person injured as a result of a violation of subsection (b) is entitled to maintain a private right of action for injunctive relief and to recover actual damages, compensatory damages, punitive damages, and reasonable attorney fees against an alleged violator.
Added by 2024 Tenn. Acts, ch. 1017,s 4, eff. 7/1/2024.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-8-192 — TN Code / Title 55 / Chapter 8 / Section 55-8-192
Use of portable electronic device by school bus drivers
Status: in_force

(a) No driver shall operate a school bus as defined by § 55-8-101 anywhere in this state while using a portable electronic device: (1) While the vehicle is in motion and while the vehicle is transporting one (1) or more children; or (2) When the vehicle is stopped for the purposes of loading or unloading one (1) or more children from the vehicle. (b) As used in this section, "portable electronic device" means any: (1) Mobile, cellular, analog, wireless, or digital telephone; (2) Personal digital assistant; (3) Hand-held device with mobile data access; (4) Laptop computer; (5) Pager; (6) Broadband personal communication device; (7) Two-way messaging device; (8) Electronic game; (9) Camera; (10) Portable computing device; (11) Global positioning system, if the driver is using at least one (1) hand to hold the device or to enter data into the device while the school bus is in motion; or (12) Electronic device used to input, write, send, receive, read, or view text or media for present or future communication. (c) This section shall not apply to: (1) Two-way radio communications, or any device used in a similar manner as two-way radio communications, made to and from a central dispatch, school transportation department, or its equivalent; (2) The use of a device capable of voice communication to report an emergency to the 911 system, a law enforcement agency, fire department, or emergency medical provider; or (3) The use of a portable electronic device for navigation of the school bus and for accurately accounting for students at bus pick-up and drop-off locations through use of the device's global positioning system if: (A) Neither of the driver's hands are used to hold the device or to enter data into the device while the school bus is in motion; (B) The device is mounted on the school bus's windshield, dashboard, or center console area in a manner that does not hinder the driver's view of the road; and (C) The driver views only data related to the navigation of the school bus and student information related to bus pick-up and drop-off locations. (d) A violation of this section is a Class A misdemeanor, punishable by a minimum period of confinement of not less than thirty (30) days; a minimum fine of not less than one thousand dollars ($1,000); and the court shall order that a person convicted of violating this section is permanently prohibited from operating a school bus as defined by § 55-8-101 in this state. Amended by 2023 Tenn. Acts, ch. 210, s 1, eff. 7/1/2023. Amended by 2016 Tenn. Acts, ch. 1036, s 1, eff. 7/1/2016. Acts 2003 , ch. 180, § 1.
(a) No driver shall operate a school bus as defined by § 55-8-101 anywhere in this state while using a portable electronic device: (1) While the vehicle is in motion and while the vehicle is transporting one (1) or more children; or (2) When the vehicle is stopped for the purposes of loading or unloading one (1) or more children from the vehicle.
(1) While the vehicle is in motion and while the vehicle is transporting one (1) or more children; or
(2) When the vehicle is stopped for the purposes of loading or unloading one (1) or more children from the vehicle.
(b) As used in this section, "portable electronic device" means any: (1) Mobile, cellular, analog, wireless, or digital telephone; (2) Personal digital assistant; (3) Hand-held device with mobile data access; (4) Laptop computer; (5) Pager; (6) Broadband personal communication device; (7) Two-way messaging device; (8) Electronic game; (9) Camera; (10) Portable computing device; (11) Global positioning system, if the driver is using at least one (1) hand to hold the device or to enter data into the device while the school bus is in motion; or (12) Electronic device used to input, write, send, receive, read, or view text or media for present or future communication.
(1) Mobile, cellular, analog, wireless, or digital telephone;
(2) Personal digital assistant;
(3) Hand-held device with mobile data access;
(4) Laptop computer;
(5) Pager;
(6) Broadband personal communication device;
(7) Two-way messaging device;
(8) Electronic game;
(9) Camera;
(10) Portable computing device;
(11) Global positioning system, if the driver is using at least one (1) hand to hold the device or to enter data into the device while the school bus is in motion; or
(12) Electronic device used to input, write, send, receive, read, or view text or media for present or future communication.
(c) This section shall not apply to: (1) Two-way radio communications, or any device used in a similar manner as two-way radio communications, made to and from a central dispatch, school transportation department, or its equivalent; (2) The use of a device capable of voice communication to report an emergency to the 911 system, a law enforcement agency, fire department, or emergency medical provider; or (3) The use of a portable electronic device for navigation of the school bus and for accurately accounting for students at bus pick-up and drop-off locations through use of the device's global positioning system if: (A) Neither of the driver's hands are used to hold the device or to enter data into the device while the school bus is in motion; (B) The device is mounted on the school bus's windshield, dashboard, or center console area in a manner that does not hinder the driver's view of the road; and (C) The driver views only data related to the navigation of the school bus and student information related to bus pick-up and drop-off locations.
(1) Two-way radio communications, or any device used in a similar manner as two-way radio communications, made to and from a central dispatch, school transportation department, or its equivalent;
(2) The use of a device capable of voice communication to report an emergency to the 911 system, a law enforcement agency, fire department, or emergency medical provider; or
(3) The use of a portable electronic device for navigation of the school bus and for accurately accounting for students at bus pick-up and drop-off locations through use of the device's global positioning system if: (A) Neither of the driver's hands are used to hold the device or to enter data into the device while the school bus is in motion; (B) The device is mounted on the school bus's windshield, dashboard, or center console area in a manner that does not hinder the driver's view of the road; and (C) The driver views only data related to the navigation of the school bus and student information related to bus pick-up and drop-off locations.
(A) Neither of the driver's hands are used to hold the device or to enter data into the device while the school bus is in motion;
(B) The device is mounted on the school bus's windshield, dashboard, or center console area in a manner that does not hinder the driver's view of the road; and
(C) The driver views only data related to the navigation of the school bus and student information related to bus pick-up and drop-off locations.
(d) A violation of this section is a Class A misdemeanor, punishable by a minimum period of confinement of not less than thirty (30) days; a minimum fine of not less than one thousand dollars ($1,000); and the court shall order that a person convicted of violating this section is permanently prohibited from operating a school bus as defined by § 55-8-101 in this state.
Amended by 2023 Tenn. Acts, ch. 210, s 1, eff. 7/1/2023.
Amended by 2016 Tenn. Acts, ch. 1036, s 1, eff. 7/1/2016.
Acts 2003 , ch. 180, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-4-205 — TN Code / Title 55 / Chapter 4 / Section 55-4-205
Seven characters maximum
Status: in_force

Registration plates issued under this part may bear up to seven (7) characters or positions for a passenger motor vehicle, recreational vehicle or truck of one-half or three-quarter-ton rating, or, if authorized, up to six (6) characters or positions for a motorcycle. Amended by 2018 Tenn. Acts, ch. 1023,s 49, eff. 7/1/2018. Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1.
Registration plates issued under this part may bear up to seven (7) characters or positions for a passenger motor vehicle, recreational vehicle or truck of one-half or three-quarter-ton rating, or, if authorized, up to six (6) characters or positions for a motorcycle.
Amended by 2018 Tenn. Acts, ch. 1023,s 49, eff. 7/1/2018.
Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-4-354 — TN Code / Title 55 / Chapter 4 / Section 55-4-354
[Repealed]
Status: repealed

Repealed by 2023 Tenn. Acts, ch. 250, s 1, eff. 7/1/2023. Amended by 2013 Tenn. Acts, ch. 484, s 29, eff. 5/20/2013. Acts 2012 , ch. 702, § 2.
Repealed by 2023 Tenn. Acts, ch. 250, s 1, eff. 7/1/2023.
Amended by 2013 Tenn. Acts, ch. 484, s 29, eff. 5/20/2013.
Acts 2012 , ch. 702, § 2.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-12-203 — TN Code / Title 55 / Chapter 12 / Section 55-12-203
Part definitions
Status: in_force

As used in this part, unless the context otherwise requires: (1) "Automobile liability insurer," "insurer," or "carrier" means an insurance carrier licensed under title 56 to provide vehicle insurance, as defined in § 56-2-201 , in this state; (2) "Commercial automobile coverage" means any coverage provided to an insured, regardless of the number of vehicles or entities covered, under a commercial coverage form and rated from a commercial manual approved by the department of commerce and insurance; (3) "Designated agent" means a third-party vendor that the department of revenue may contract with to develop, implement, and administer the program; (4) "Full book of business" means a business record download of an automobile liability insurer made in accordance with IICMVA Insurance Data Transfer Guide Specifications that contains the data elements described in § 55-12-207(c)(1) ; (5) "IICMVA" means the Insurance Industry Committee on Motor Vehicle Administration; (6) "IICMVA Model" means the online insurance verification system model created by the IICMVA; (7) "NAIC" means the National Association of Insurance Commissioners; (8) "Unknown carrier request" means an electronic request for insurance coverage verification on a specific vehicle sent in accordance with IICMVA standards by the department of revenue or its designated agent to a carrier or carriers when the identity of the vehicle's carrier or the insurance policy number for the vehicle is unknown; and (9) "Vehicle insurance verification program" or "program" means an insurance verification program that is created in compliance with the online verification system and data transfer standards, specifications, model, and guide of the IICMVA, and developed, implemented, and administered by the department of revenue in compliance with this part. Added by 2015 Tenn. Acts, ch. 511,s 1, eff. 1/1/2016.
As used in this part, unless the context otherwise requires:
(1) "Automobile liability insurer," "insurer," or "carrier" means an insurance carrier licensed under title 56 to provide vehicle insurance, as defined in § 56-2-201 , in this state;
(2) "Commercial automobile coverage" means any coverage provided to an insured, regardless of the number of vehicles or entities covered, under a commercial coverage form and rated from a commercial manual approved by the department of commerce and insurance;
(3) "Designated agent" means a third-party vendor that the department of revenue may contract with to develop, implement, and administer the program;
(4) "Full book of business" means a business record download of an automobile liability insurer made in accordance with IICMVA Insurance Data Transfer Guide Specifications that contains the data elements described in § 55-12-207(c)(1) ;
(5) "IICMVA" means the Insurance Industry Committee on Motor Vehicle Administration;
(6) "IICMVA Model" means the online insurance verification system model created by the IICMVA;
(7) "NAIC" means the National Association of Insurance Commissioners;
(8) "Unknown carrier request" means an electronic request for insurance coverage verification on a specific vehicle sent in accordance with IICMVA standards by the department of revenue or its designated agent to a carrier or carriers when the identity of the vehicle's carrier or the insurance policy number for the vehicle is unknown; and
(9) "Vehicle insurance verification program" or "program" means an insurance verification program that is created in compliance with the online verification system and data transfer standards, specifications, model, and guide of the IICMVA, and developed, implemented, and administered by the department of revenue in compliance with this part.
Added by 2015 Tenn. Acts, ch. 511,s 1, eff. 1/1/2016.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-4-398 — TN Code / Title 55 / Chapter 4 / Section 55-4-398
[Repealed]
Status: repealed

Repealed by 2023 Tenn. Acts, ch. 250, s 1, eff. 7/1/2023. Added by 2022 Tenn. Acts, ch. 968, s 61, eff. 7/1/2022.
Repealed by 2023 Tenn. Acts, ch. 250, s 1, eff. 7/1/2023.
Added by 2022 Tenn. Acts, ch. 968, s 61, eff. 7/1/2022.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-9-401 — TN Code / Title 55 / Chapter 9 / Section 55-9-401
Lights on vehicles other than motor vehicles - Visibility distance - Penalty
Status: in_force

(a) Every vehicle other than a motor vehicle, when traveling upon a state highway, state aid road or other road, highway or street under the control of the state, the federal government or any political division thereof, dedicated, appropriated or open to public use or travel, shall be equipped with a light attached to and on the upper left side of the vehicle, capable of displaying a light visible five hundred feet (500') to the front and five hundred feet (500') to the rear of the vehicle under ordinary atmospheric conditions, and the light shall be displayed during the period from one-half (1/2) hour after sunset to one-half (1/2) hour before sunrise and at all other times when there is not sufficient light to render clearly discernible any person on the road or highway at a distance of two hundred feet (200') ahead of the vehicle. (b) Cotton wagons used exclusively to transport cotton shall not be required to display the light described in subsection (a), but shall display: (1) A red tail lamp on the lower left corner of the rear of the wagon; and (2) A triangle-shaped slow-moving vehicle identification emblem meeting Standard S276.8 of the American Society of Agricultural Engineers. The emblem shall be placed on the lower left corner of the rear of the wagon. The user of a cotton wagon shall be responsible for the proper function of the symbol or light, except for any malfunction resulting from the act or omission of another person. (c) No person shall operate on a highway a horse-drawn vehicle that is used on the highway primarily as a means of transportation during the period of time from one-half (1/2) hour before sunset until one-half (1/2) hour after sunrise and at all other times when there is not sufficient light to render clearly discernible any person on the road or highway at a distance of two hundred feet (200') ahead of the vehicle, unless the vehicle: (1) (A) Is equipped with two (2) reflective type lanterns, one (1) to be placed on the left side of the vehicle and one (1) to be placed on the right side of the vehicle with the lantern on the right side to be placed at least twelve inches (12") higher than the lantern on the left, and also has a minimum of one hundred square inches (100 sq. in.) of reflector tape placed on the rear of the vehicle, thirty-six inches (36") of reflector tape placed on each side of the vehicle, and twenty-four inches (24") of reflector tape placed at the highest point of the left front of the vehicle; and (B) Is equipped with one (1) red, battery-operated light-emitting diode (LED) flashing light located at the top left-hand corner on the rear of the vehicle. The light must be at least three inches (3") by three inches (3"); or (2) (A) Has a minimum of one hundred square inches (100 sq. in.) of reflector tape placed on the rear of the vehicle, thirty-six inches (36") of reflector tape placed on each side of the vehicle, and twenty-four inches (24") of reflector tape placed at the highest point of the left front of the vehicle; (B) Has six inches (6") of reflector piping tape placed on two (2) locations on the rear, left wheel of the vehicle; and (C) Is equipped with two (2) reflective type lanterns, one (1) to be placed on the left side of the vehicle and one (1) to be placed on the right side of the vehicle with the lantern on the right side to be placed at least twelve inches (12") higher than the lantern on the left. Each lantern must be equipped with a red reflective type lens that is at least three inches (3") by three inches (3"). (d) During the period of time from one-half (1/2) hour before sunset until one-half (1/2) hour after sunrise, any implement of husbandry as defined in § 55-1-108 having a width of more than ninety-six inches (96"), which is towed behind a farm tractor or other motor vehicle, and the lighting of the farm tractor or other motor vehicle is concealed by the implement of husbandry, shall be equipped with two (2) red or amber flashing lamps, one on each side, attached at the rear, or accompanied by a rear escort utilizing its emergency flashers. (e) A violation of this section is a Class C misdemeanor, punishable only by a fine not to exceed fifty dollars ($50.00); except, the fine imposed for a violation of subsection (c) is ten dollars ($10.00). Amended by 2019 Tenn. Acts, ch. 477, s 2, eff. 1/1/2020. Amended by 2019 Tenn. Acts, ch. 477, s 1, eff. 1/1/2020. Acts 1931, ch. 82, § 15; 1937, ch. 245, § 5; 1941, ch. 121, § 1; C. Supp. 1950, § 2700.16 (Williams, § 2695); T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 59-904; Acts 1989, ch. 330, § 3; 1989, ch. 591, § 113; 1990, ch. 1006, § 1; 1993, ch. 489, § 1; 2003 , ch. 290, § 1.
(a) Every vehicle other than a motor vehicle, when traveling upon a state highway, state aid road or other road, highway or street under the control of the state, the federal government or any political division thereof, dedicated, appropriated or open to public use or travel, shall be equipped with a light attached to and on the upper left side of the vehicle, capable of displaying a light visible five hundred feet (500') to the front and five hundred feet (500') to the rear of the vehicle under ordinary atmospheric conditions, and the light shall be displayed during the period from one-half (1/2) hour after sunset to one-half (1/2) hour before sunrise and at all other times when there is not sufficient light to render clearly discernible any person on the road or highway at a distance of two hundred feet (200') ahead of the vehicle.
(b) Cotton wagons used exclusively to transport cotton shall not be required to display the light described in subsection (a), but shall display: (1) A red tail lamp on the lower left corner of the rear of the wagon; and (2) A triangle-shaped slow-moving vehicle identification emblem meeting Standard S276.8 of the American Society of Agricultural Engineers. The emblem shall be placed on the lower left corner of the rear of the wagon. The user of a cotton wagon shall be responsible for the proper function of the symbol or light, except for any malfunction resulting from the act or omission of another person.
(1) A red tail lamp on the lower left corner of the rear of the wagon; and
(2) A triangle-shaped slow-moving vehicle identification emblem meeting Standard S276.8 of the American Society of Agricultural Engineers. The emblem shall be placed on the lower left corner of the rear of the wagon. The user of a cotton wagon shall be responsible for the proper function of the symbol or light, except for any malfunction resulting from the act or omission of another person.
(c) No person shall operate on a highway a horse-drawn vehicle that is used on the highway primarily as a means of transportation during the period of time from one-half (1/2) hour before sunset until one-half (1/2) hour after sunrise and at all other times when there is not sufficient light to render clearly discernible any person on the road or highway at a distance of two hundred feet (200') ahead of the vehicle, unless the vehicle: (1) (A) Is equipped with two (2) reflective type lanterns, one (1) to be placed on the left side of the vehicle and one (1) to be placed on the right side of the vehicle with the lantern on the right side to be placed at least twelve inches (12") higher than the lantern on the left, and also has a minimum of one hundred square inches (100 sq. in.) of reflector tape placed on the rear of the vehicle, thirty-six inches (36") of reflector tape placed on each side of the vehicle, and twenty-four inches (24") of reflector tape placed at the highest point of the left front of the vehicle; and (B) Is equipped with one (1) red, battery-operated light-emitting diode (LED) flashing light located at the top left-hand corner on the rear of the vehicle. The light must be at least three inches (3") by three inches (3"); or (2) (A) Has a minimum of one hundred square inches (100 sq. in.) of reflector tape placed on the rear of the vehicle, thirty-six inches (36") of reflector tape placed on each side of the vehicle, and twenty-four inches (24") of reflector tape placed at the highest point of the left front of the vehicle; (B) Has six inches (6") of reflector piping tape placed on two (2) locations on the rear, left wheel of the vehicle; and (C) Is equipped with two (2) reflective type lanterns, one (1) to be placed on the left side of the vehicle and one (1) to be placed on the right side of the vehicle with the lantern on the right side to be placed at least twelve inches (12") higher than the lantern on the left. Each lantern must be equipped with a red reflective type lens that is at least three inches (3") by three inches (3").
(1) (A) Is equipped with two (2) reflective type lanterns, one (1) to be placed on the left side of the vehicle and one (1) to be placed on the right side of the vehicle with the lantern on the right side to be placed at least twelve inches (12") higher than the lantern on the left, and also has a minimum of one hundred square inches (100 sq. in.) of reflector tape placed on the rear of the vehicle, thirty-six inches (36") of reflector tape placed on each side of the vehicle, and twenty-four inches (24") of reflector tape placed at the highest point of the left front of the vehicle; and (B) Is equipped with one (1) red, battery-operated light-emitting diode (LED) flashing light located at the top left-hand corner on the rear of the vehicle. The light must be at least three inches (3") by three inches (3"); or
(A) Is equipped with two (2) reflective type lanterns, one (1) to be placed on the left side of the vehicle and one (1) to be placed on the right side of the vehicle with the lantern on the right side to be placed at least twelve inches (12") higher than the lantern on the left, and also has a minimum of one hundred square inches (100 sq. in.) of reflector tape placed on the rear of the vehicle, thirty-six inches (36") of reflector tape placed on each side of the vehicle, and twenty-four inches (24") of reflector tape placed at the highest point of the left front of the vehicle; and
(B) Is equipped with one (1) red, battery-operated light-emitting diode (LED) flashing light located at the top left-hand corner on the rear of the vehicle. The light must be at least three inches (3") by three inches (3"); or
(2) (A) Has a minimum of one hundred square inches (100 sq. in.) of reflector tape placed on the rear of the vehicle, thirty-six inches (36") of reflector tape placed on each side of the vehicle, and twenty-four inches (24") of reflector tape placed at the highest point of the left front of the vehicle; (B) Has six inches (6") of reflector piping tape placed on two (2) locations on the rear, left wheel of the vehicle; and (C) Is equipped with two (2) reflective type lanterns, one (1) to be placed on the left side of the vehicle and one (1) to be placed on the right side of the vehicle with the lantern on the right side to be placed at least twelve inches (12") higher than the lantern on the left. Each lantern must be equipped with a red reflective type lens that is at least three inches (3") by three inches (3").
(A) Has a minimum of one hundred square inches (100 sq. in.) of reflector tape placed on the rear of the vehicle, thirty-six inches (36") of reflector tape placed on each side of the vehicle, and twenty-four inches (24") of reflector tape placed at the highest point of the left front of the vehicle;
(B) Has six inches (6") of reflector piping tape placed on two (2) locations on the rear, left wheel of the vehicle; and
(C) Is equipped with two (2) reflective type lanterns, one (1) to be placed on the left side of the vehicle and one (1) to be placed on the right side of the vehicle with the lantern on the right side to be placed at least twelve inches (12") higher than the lantern on the left. Each lantern must be equipped with a red reflective type lens that is at least three inches (3") by three inches (3").
(d) During the period of time from one-half (1/2) hour before sunset until one-half (1/2) hour after sunrise, any implement of husbandry as defined in § 55-1-108 having a width of more than ninety-six inches (96"), which is towed behind a farm tractor or other motor vehicle, and the lighting of the farm tractor or other motor vehicle is concealed by the implement of husbandry, shall be equipped with two (2) red or amber flashing lamps, one on each side, attached at the rear, or accompanied by a rear escort utilizing its emergency flashers.
(e) A violation of this section is a Class C misdemeanor, punishable only by a fine not to exceed fifty dollars ($50.00); except, the fine imposed for a violation of subsection (c) is ten dollars ($10.00).
Amended by 2019 Tenn. Acts, ch. 477, s 2, eff. 1/1/2020.
Amended by 2019 Tenn. Acts, ch. 477, s 1, eff. 1/1/2020.
Acts 1931, ch. 82, § 15; 1937, ch. 245, § 5; 1941, ch. 121, § 1; C. Supp. 1950, § 2700.16 (Williams, § 2695); T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 59-904; Acts 1989, ch. 330, § 3; 1989, ch. 591, § 113; 1990, ch. 1006, § 1; 1993, ch. 489, § 1; 2003 , ch. 290, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-4-343 — TN Code / Title 55 / Chapter 4 / Section 55-4-343
Cancer awareness
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 Driving to a Cure (Pink Ribbon) 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 include the phrase "Driving to a Cure" in an appropriate design. The plates must also include a pictorial representation of the universally recognized symbol for breast cancer awareness, the pink ribbon. The plates must be designed in consultation with a representative of the department of health. (3) The funds produced from the sale of Driving to a Cure (Pink Ribbon) new specialty earmarked license plates must be allocated to the department of health, in accordance with § 55-4-301 . The funds must be used exclusively for breast screening, prevention, and diagnostic services. (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 in § 55-4-204 , shall be issued a Childhood Cancer Awareness 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 (b) must be of an appropriate design or logo representative of the mission of The Grayson Foundation. The plates must be designed in consultation with a representative from The Grayson Foundation. (3) The funds produced from the sale of Childhood Cancer Awareness new specialty earmarked license plates must be allocated to The Grayson Foundation, in accordance with § 55-4-301 . The funds must be used exclusively in this state to provide resources and financial assistance to families who have a child with cancer. (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 an Ovarian Cancer Awareness 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 designed in consultation with a representative of Tennessee in Teal. (3) The funds produced from the sale of Ovarian Cancer Awareness new specialty earmarked license plates must be allocated to Tennessee in Teal, in accordance with § 55-4-301 . The funds must be used exclusively in this state to help women navigate the challenges of ovarian cancer through programs of research, education, support, and advocacy, including assisting with screening, prevention, and diagnostic services. Amended by 2024 Tenn. Acts, ch. 804,s 32, eff. 7/1/2024. Amended by 2024 Tenn. Acts, ch. 804,s 28, 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 for in § 55-4-204 , shall be issued a Driving to a Cure (Pink Ribbon) 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 include the phrase "Driving to a Cure" in an appropriate design. The plates must also include a pictorial representation of the universally recognized symbol for breast cancer awareness, the pink ribbon. The plates must be designed in consultation with a representative of the department of health. (3) The funds produced from the sale of Driving to a Cure (Pink Ribbon) new specialty earmarked license plates must be allocated to the department of health, in accordance with § 55-4-301 . The funds must be used exclusively for breast screening, prevention, and diagnostic 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 Driving to a Cure (Pink Ribbon) 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 include the phrase "Driving to a Cure" in an appropriate design. The plates must also include a pictorial representation of the universally recognized symbol for breast cancer awareness, the pink ribbon. The plates must be designed in consultation with a representative of the department of health.
(3) The funds produced from the sale of Driving to a Cure (Pink Ribbon) new specialty earmarked license plates must be allocated to the department of health, in accordance with § 55-4-301 . The funds must be used exclusively for breast screening, prevention, and diagnostic services.
(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 in § 55-4-204 , shall be issued a Childhood Cancer Awareness 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 (b) must be of an appropriate design or logo representative of the mission of The Grayson Foundation. The plates must be designed in consultation with a representative from The Grayson Foundation. (3) The funds produced from the sale of Childhood Cancer Awareness new specialty earmarked license plates must be allocated to The Grayson Foundation, in accordance with § 55-4-301 . The funds must be used exclusively in this state to provide resources and financial assistance to families who have a child with cancer.
(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 Childhood Cancer Awareness 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 (b) must be of an appropriate design or logo representative of the mission of The Grayson Foundation. The plates must be designed in consultation with a representative from The Grayson Foundation.
(3) The funds produced from the sale of Childhood Cancer Awareness new specialty earmarked license plates must be allocated to The Grayson Foundation, in accordance with § 55-4-301 . The funds must be used exclusively in this state to provide resources and financial assistance to families who have a child with cancer.
(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 an Ovarian Cancer Awareness 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 designed in consultation with a representative of Tennessee in Teal. (3) The funds produced from the sale of Ovarian Cancer Awareness new specialty earmarked license plates must be allocated to Tennessee in Teal, in accordance with § 55-4-301 . The funds must be used exclusively in this state to help women navigate the challenges of ovarian cancer through programs of research, education, support, and advocacy, including assisting with screening, prevention, and diagnostic 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 an Ovarian Cancer Awareness 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 designed in consultation with a representative of Tennessee in Teal.
(3) The funds produced from the sale of Ovarian Cancer Awareness new specialty earmarked license plates must be allocated to Tennessee in Teal, in accordance with § 55-4-301 . The funds must be used exclusively in this state to help women navigate the challenges of ovarian cancer through programs of research, education, support, and advocacy, including assisting with screening, prevention, and diagnostic services.
Amended by 2024 Tenn. Acts, ch. 804,s 32, eff. 7/1/2024.
Amended by 2024 Tenn. Acts, ch. 804,s 28, eff. 7/1/2024.
Added by 2023 Tenn. Acts, ch. 250, s 1, eff. 7/1/2023.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-9-107 — TN Code / Title 55 / Chapter 9 / Section 55-9-107
Tinted motor vehicle windows
Status: in_force

(a) (1) It is unlawful for any person to operate, upon a public highway, street or road, any motor vehicle in which any window that has a visible light transmittance equal to, but not less than, that specified in the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 205, codified in 49 CFR 571.205 , has been altered, treated or replaced by the affixing, application or installation of any material that: (A) Has a visible light transmittance of less than thirty-five percent (35%); or (B) With the exception of the manufacturer's standard installed shade band, reduces the visible light transmittance in the windshield below seventy percent (70%). (2) Any person who installs window tinting materials in this state for profit, barter, or wages or commissions is defined as a "professional installer" for the purposes of this section; and it is unlawful for a professional installer to apply tinting materials to any motor vehicle so as to cause that motor vehicle to be in violation of this section. (3) All professional installers of window tinting materials shall supply and shall affix to the lower right corner of the driver's window an adhesive label, the size and style of which shall be determined by the commissioner of safety, that includes: (A) The installer's business name; and (B) The legend "Complies with Tennessee Code Annotated, § 55-9-107 ." (4) All professional installers of window tinting materials shall supply each customer with a signed receipt for each motor vehicle to which tinting materials have been applied that includes: (A) Date of installation; (B) Make, model, paint color and license plate number and state; (C) The legend "Complies with Tennessee Code Annotated, § 55-9-107 , at date of installation"; and (D) The legend "This receipt shall be kept with motor vehicle registration documents." (5) The owner of any vehicle in question has the burden of proof that the motor vehicle is in compliance with this section. (6) (A) The restrictions of this subsection (a) do not apply to any of the following motor vehicles: (i) Any motor vehicle model permitted by federal regulations to be equipped with certain windows tinted so as not to conform to the specifications of subdivision (a)(1)(A) with respect to those certain windows; (ii) Any motor vehicle bearing commercial license plates or government service license plates that are used for law enforcement purposes, for those windows rearward of the front doors; (iii) Any motor vehicle that is registered in another state and meets the requirements of the state of registration; and (iv) Any motor vehicle owned or leased by private investigators or investigations companies licensed pursuant to title 62, chapter 26. (B) This subdivision (a)(6) shall not be construed in any way to exempt the front door windows of any motor vehicle of any kind from the specifications of subdivision (a)(1)(A). (b) (1) Notwithstanding subdivision (a)(1) to the contrary, any person with a medical condition that is adversely affected by ultraviolet light may submit a statement to the commissioner from that person's physician certifying that the person has a medical condition that requires reduction of light transmission in the windows of the person's vehicle in excess of the standards established in subsection (a). The commissioner shall submit the certified statement to the department's medical review board for evaluation. If the review board finds the exemption warranted, it shall recommend that the commissioner authorize the exemption, and the degree of tinting exemption that is appropriate. The commissioner shall then supply a certificate or decal, indicating the degree of exemption, to the applicant who shall display it in the motor vehicle. (2) Any applicant aggrieved by a decision of the medical review board or the commissioner may appeal in accordance with the Uniform Administrative Procedures Act, compiled in title 4, chapter 5. The appeal may be made to the chancery court of the county where the aggrieved applicant resides at the option of the applicant. (c) It is probable cause for a POST-certified law enforcement officer of this state to detain a motor vehicle being operated on the public roads, streets or highways of this state when the officer has a reasonable belief that the motor vehicle is in violation of subdivision (a)(1), for the purpose of conducting a field comparison test. (d) It is a Class C misdemeanor for the operator of a motor vehicle to refuse to submit to the field comparison test when directed to do so by a POST-certified law enforcement officer, or for any person to otherwise violate any provisions of this section. (e) The commissioner of safety shall establish a standardized method and procedure by which law enforcement officers can readily, and with reasonable accuracy, conduct a field comparison test to determine if a motor vehicle's windows are in compliance with this section. Amended by 2024 Tenn. Acts, ch. 602,s 1, eff. 3/27/2024. Amended by 2016 Tenn. Acts, ch. 583, s 1, eff. 7/1/2016. Acts 1982, ch. 938, § 1; 1985, ch. 207, § 1; 1989, ch. 528, §§ 1-4; 1989, ch. 591, § 113; 1990, ch. 1033, § 1; 2006, ch. 523, § 1; 2009 , ch. 286, § 1.
(a) (1) It is unlawful for any person to operate, upon a public highway, street or road, any motor vehicle in which any window that has a visible light transmittance equal to, but not less than, that specified in the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 205, codified in 49 CFR 571.205 , has been altered, treated or replaced by the affixing, application or installation of any material that: (A) Has a visible light transmittance of less than thirty-five percent (35%); or (B) With the exception of the manufacturer's standard installed shade band, reduces the visible light transmittance in the windshield below seventy percent (70%). (2) Any person who installs window tinting materials in this state for profit, barter, or wages or commissions is defined as a "professional installer" for the purposes of this section; and it is unlawful for a professional installer to apply tinting materials to any motor vehicle so as to cause that motor vehicle to be in violation of this section. (3) All professional installers of window tinting materials shall supply and shall affix to the lower right corner of the driver's window an adhesive label, the size and style of which shall be determined by the commissioner of safety, that includes: (A) The installer's business name; and (B) The legend "Complies with Tennessee Code Annotated, § 55-9-107 ." (4) All professional installers of window tinting materials shall supply each customer with a signed receipt for each motor vehicle to which tinting materials have been applied that includes: (A) Date of installation; (B) Make, model, paint color and license plate number and state; (C) The legend "Complies with Tennessee Code Annotated, § 55-9-107 , at date of installation"; and (D) The legend "This receipt shall be kept with motor vehicle registration documents." (5) The owner of any vehicle in question has the burden of proof that the motor vehicle is in compliance with this section. (6) (A) The restrictions of this subsection (a) do not apply to any of the following motor vehicles: (i) Any motor vehicle model permitted by federal regulations to be equipped with certain windows tinted so as not to conform to the specifications of subdivision (a)(1)(A) with respect to those certain windows; (ii) Any motor vehicle bearing commercial license plates or government service license plates that are used for law enforcement purposes, for those windows rearward of the front doors; (iii) Any motor vehicle that is registered in another state and meets the requirements of the state of registration; and (iv) Any motor vehicle owned or leased by private investigators or investigations companies licensed pursuant to title 62, chapter 26. (B) This subdivision (a)(6) shall not be construed in any way to exempt the front door windows of any motor vehicle of any kind from the specifications of subdivision (a)(1)(A).
(1) It is unlawful for any person to operate, upon a public highway, street or road, any motor vehicle in which any window that has a visible light transmittance equal to, but not less than, that specified in the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 205, codified in 49 CFR 571.205 , has been altered, treated or replaced by the affixing, application or installation of any material that: (A) Has a visible light transmittance of less than thirty-five percent (35%); or (B) With the exception of the manufacturer's standard installed shade band, reduces the visible light transmittance in the windshield below seventy percent (70%).
(A) Has a visible light transmittance of less than thirty-five percent (35%); or
(B) With the exception of the manufacturer's standard installed shade band, reduces the visible light transmittance in the windshield below seventy percent (70%).
(2) Any person who installs window tinting materials in this state for profit, barter, or wages or commissions is defined as a "professional installer" for the purposes of this section; and it is unlawful for a professional installer to apply tinting materials to any motor vehicle so as to cause that motor vehicle to be in violation of this section.
(3) All professional installers of window tinting materials shall supply and shall affix to the lower right corner of the driver's window an adhesive label, the size and style of which shall be determined by the commissioner of safety, that includes: (A) The installer's business name; and (B) The legend "Complies with Tennessee Code Annotated, § 55-9-107 ."
(A) The installer's business name; and
(B) The legend "Complies with Tennessee Code Annotated, § 55-9-107 ."
(4) All professional installers of window tinting materials shall supply each customer with a signed receipt for each motor vehicle to which tinting materials have been applied that includes: (A) Date of installation; (B) Make, model, paint color and license plate number and state; (C) The legend "Complies with Tennessee Code Annotated, § 55-9-107 , at date of installation"; and (D) The legend "This receipt shall be kept with motor vehicle registration documents."
(A) Date of installation;
(B) Make, model, paint color and license plate number and state;
(C) The legend "Complies with Tennessee Code Annotated, § 55-9-107 , at date of installation"; and
(D) The legend "This receipt shall be kept with motor vehicle registration documents."
(5) The owner of any vehicle in question has the burden of proof that the motor vehicle is in compliance with this section.
(6) (A) The restrictions of this subsection (a) do not apply to any of the following motor vehicles: (i) Any motor vehicle model permitted by federal regulations to be equipped with certain windows tinted so as not to conform to the specifications of subdivision (a)(1)(A) with respect to those certain windows; (ii) Any motor vehicle bearing commercial license plates or government service license plates that are used for law enforcement purposes, for those windows rearward of the front doors; (iii) Any motor vehicle that is registered in another state and meets the requirements of the state of registration; and (iv) Any motor vehicle owned or leased by private investigators or investigations companies licensed pursuant to title 62, chapter 26. (B) This subdivision (a)(6) shall not be construed in any way to exempt the front door windows of any motor vehicle of any kind from the specifications of subdivision (a)(1)(A).
(A) The restrictions of this subsection (a) do not apply to any of the following motor vehicles: (i) Any motor vehicle model permitted by federal regulations to be equipped with certain windows tinted so as not to conform to the specifications of subdivision (a)(1)(A) with respect to those certain windows; (ii) Any motor vehicle bearing commercial license plates or government service license plates that are used for law enforcement purposes, for those windows rearward of the front doors; (iii) Any motor vehicle that is registered in another state and meets the requirements of the state of registration; and (iv) Any motor vehicle owned or leased by private investigators or investigations companies licensed pursuant to title 62, chapter 26.
(i) Any motor vehicle model permitted by federal regulations to be equipped with certain windows tinted so as not to conform to the specifications of subdivision (a)(1)(A) with respect to those certain windows;
(ii) Any motor vehicle bearing commercial license plates or government service license plates that are used for law enforcement purposes, for those windows rearward of the front doors;
(iii) Any motor vehicle that is registered in another state and meets the requirements of the state of registration; and
(iv) Any motor vehicle owned or leased by private investigators or investigations companies licensed pursuant to title 62, chapter 26.
(B) This subdivision (a)(6) shall not be construed in any way to exempt the front door windows of any motor vehicle of any kind from the specifications of subdivision (a)(1)(A).
(b) (1) Notwithstanding subdivision (a)(1) to the contrary, any person with a medical condition that is adversely affected by ultraviolet light may submit a statement to the commissioner from that person's physician certifying that the person has a medical condition that requires reduction of light transmission in the windows of the person's vehicle in excess of the standards established in subsection (a). The commissioner shall submit the certified statement to the department's medical review board for evaluation. If the review board finds the exemption warranted, it shall recommend that the commissioner authorize the exemption, and the degree of tinting exemption that is appropriate. The commissioner shall then supply a certificate or decal, indicating the degree of exemption, to the applicant who shall display it in the motor vehicle. (2) Any applicant aggrieved by a decision of the medical review board or the commissioner may appeal in accordance with the Uniform Administrative Procedures Act, compiled in title 4, chapter 5. The appeal may be made to the chancery court of the county where the aggrieved applicant resides at the option of the applicant.
(1) Notwithstanding subdivision (a)(1) to the contrary, any person with a medical condition that is adversely affected by ultraviolet light may submit a statement to the commissioner from that person's physician certifying that the person has a medical condition that requires reduction of light transmission in the windows of the person's vehicle in excess of the standards established in subsection (a). The commissioner shall submit the certified statement to the department's medical review board for evaluation. If the review board finds the exemption warranted, it shall recommend that the commissioner authorize the exemption, and the degree of tinting exemption that is appropriate. The commissioner shall then supply a certificate or decal, indicating the degree of exemption, to the applicant who shall display it in the motor vehicle.
(2) Any applicant aggrieved by a decision of the medical review board or the commissioner may appeal in accordance with the Uniform Administrative Procedures Act, compiled in title 4, chapter 5. The appeal may be made to the chancery court of the county where the aggrieved applicant resides at the option of the applicant.
(c) It is probable cause for a POST-certified law enforcement officer of this state to detain a motor vehicle being operated on the public roads, streets or highways of this state when the officer has a reasonable belief that the motor vehicle is in violation of subdivision (a)(1), for the purpose of conducting a field comparison test.
(d) It is a Class C misdemeanor for the operator of a motor vehicle to refuse to submit to the field comparison test when directed to do so by a POST-certified law enforcement officer, or for any person to otherwise violate any provisions of this section.
(e) The commissioner of safety shall establish a standardized method and procedure by which law enforcement officers can readily, and with reasonable accuracy, conduct a field comparison test to determine if a motor vehicle's windows are in compliance with this section.
Amended by 2024 Tenn. Acts, ch. 602,s 1, eff. 3/27/2024.
Amended by 2016 Tenn. Acts, ch. 583, s 1, eff. 7/1/2016.
Acts 1982, ch. 938, § 1; 1985, ch. 207, § 1; 1989, ch. 528, §§ 1-4; 1989, ch. 591, § 113; 1990, ch. 1033, § 1; 2006, ch. 523, § 1; 2009 , ch. 286, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-8-122 — TN Code / Title 55 / Chapter 8 / Section 55-8-122
One-way roads and rotary traffic islands
Status: in_force

(a) The department of transportation may designate any highway or any separate roadway under its jurisdiction for one-way traffic and shall erect appropriate signs giving notice thereof. (b) Upon a roadway designated and signposted for one-way traffic, a vehicle shall be driven only in the direction designated. (c) A vehicle passing around a rotary traffic island shall be driven only to the right of the island. Acts 1955, ch. 329, § 21; impl. am. Acts 1959, ch. 9, § 3; impl. am. Acts 1972, ch. 829, § 7; T.C.A., § 59-822.
(a) The department of transportation may designate any highway or any separate roadway under its jurisdiction for one-way traffic and shall erect appropriate signs giving notice thereof.
(b) Upon a roadway designated and signposted for one-way traffic, a vehicle shall be driven only in the direction designated.
(c) A vehicle passing around a rotary traffic island shall be driven only to the right of the island.
Acts 1955, ch. 329, § 21; impl. am. Acts 1959, ch. 9, § 3; impl. am. Acts 1972, ch. 829, § 7; T.C.A., § 59-822.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-14-104 — TN Code / Title 55 / Chapter 14 / Section 55-14-104
"Dealers" defined
Status: in_force

Wherever the word "dealers" is used in §§ 55-14-105 - 55-14-107, it means all persons, partnerships or corporations engaged in the used or junk car business who purchase for resale used automobile parts and/or accessories. Acts 1957, ch. 411, § 1; T.C.A., § 59-1404.
Wherever the word "dealers" is used in §§ 55-14-105 - 55-14-107, it means all persons, partnerships or corporations engaged in the used or junk car business who purchase for resale used automobile parts and/or accessories.
Acts 1957, ch. 411, § 1; T.C.A., § 59-1404.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-8-125 — TN Code / Title 55 / Chapter 8 / Section 55-8-125
Driving on divided highways
Status: in_force

Whenever any highway has been divided into two (2) roadways by leaving an intervening space or by a physical barrier or clearly indicated dividing section so constructed as to impede vehicular traffic, every vehicle shall be driven only upon the right-hand roadway and no vehicle shall be driven over, across, or within any dividing space, barrier or section, except through an opening in the physical barrier or dividing section or space or at a cross-over or intersection established by public authority. Acts 1955, ch. 329, § 24; T.C.A., § 59-825.
Whenever any highway has been divided into two (2) roadways by leaving an intervening space or by a physical barrier or clearly indicated dividing section so constructed as to impede vehicular traffic, every vehicle shall be driven only upon the right-hand roadway and no vehicle shall be driven over, across, or within any dividing space, barrier or section, except through an opening in the physical barrier or dividing section or space or at a cross-over or intersection established by public authority.
Acts 1955, ch. 329, § 24; T.C.A., § 59-825.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-4-377 — TN Code / Title 55 / Chapter 4 / Section 55-4-377
[Repealed]
Status: repealed

Repealed by 2023 Tenn. Acts, ch. 250, s 1, eff. 7/1/2023. Added by 2022 Tenn. Acts, ch. 968, s 14, eff. 7/1/2022.
Repealed by 2023 Tenn. Acts, ch. 250, s 1, eff. 7/1/2023.
Added by 2022 Tenn. Acts, ch. 968, s 14, eff. 7/1/2022.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-17-124 — TN Code / Title 55 / Chapter 17 / Section 55-17-124
Sale or transfer from manufacturer to distributor not unlawful
Status: in_force

The sale or other transfer of a motor vehicle from a manufacturer to a distributor is not unlawful under § 55-17-109 or § 55-17-114 . Acts 1987, ch. 435, § 2.
The sale or other transfer of a motor vehicle from a manufacturer to a distributor is not unlawful under § 55-17-109 or § 55-17-114 .
Acts 1987, ch. 435, § 2.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-17-412 — TN Code / Title 55 / Chapter 17 / Section 55-17-412
Civil penalty - Injunctive relief
Status: in_force

(a) In addition to the remedies provided in this part, any person violating this part, any rule promulgated under this part, or any order issued by the commission, is subject to a civil penalty of not less than one hundred dollars ($100) nor more than five thousand dollars ($5,000) for each day of violation or for each act of violation, as the commission or the court may deem proper. All civil penalties shall be paid into the general fund of the state. (b) Whenever it appears that any person has violated, is violating, or is about to violate this part, any rule promulgated under this part, or any order issued by the commission, through the attorney general and reporter, may cause a civil suit to be instituted in a court of competent jurisdiction for injunctive relief to restrain the person from continuing the violation or threat of violation or for the assessment and recovery of the civil penalty provided in this section or for both. (c) A suit for injunctive relief or for recovery of a civil penalty or for both may be brought either in the county where the defendant resides or conducts business or in the county where the violation or threat of violation occurs. (d) In any suit filed by the commission, the court may grant the commission, without bond or other undertaking, any prohibitory or mandatory injunction the facts may warrant, including temporary restraining orders, preliminary injunctions, and permanent injunctions. (e) Any person knowingly violating this part commits a Class C misdemeanor. Added by 2016 Tenn. Acts, ch. 781,s 10, eff. 1/1/2017.
(a) In addition to the remedies provided in this part, any person violating this part, any rule promulgated under this part, or any order issued by the commission, is subject to a civil penalty of not less than one hundred dollars ($100) nor more than five thousand dollars ($5,000) for each day of violation or for each act of violation, as the commission or the court may deem proper. All civil penalties shall be paid into the general fund of the state.
(b) Whenever it appears that any person has violated, is violating, or is about to violate this part, any rule promulgated under this part, or any order issued by the commission, through the attorney general and reporter, may cause a civil suit to be instituted in a court of competent jurisdiction for injunctive relief to restrain the person from continuing the violation or threat of violation or for the assessment and recovery of the civil penalty provided in this section or for both.
(c) A suit for injunctive relief or for recovery of a civil penalty or for both may be brought either in the county where the defendant resides or conducts business or in the county where the violation or threat of violation occurs.
(d) In any suit filed by the commission, the court may grant the commission, without bond or other undertaking, any prohibitory or mandatory injunction the facts may warrant, including temporary restraining orders, preliminary injunctions, and permanent injunctions.
(e) Any person knowingly violating this part commits a Class C misdemeanor.
Added by 2016 Tenn. Acts, ch. 781,s 10, eff. 1/1/2017.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-3-123 — TN Code / Title 55 / Chapter 3 / Section 55-3-123
Liens to be noted on certificates of title - County clerk entering lien
Status: in_force

(a) When any new lien, other than a lien dependent solely upon possession, or a lien of the state for taxes established pursuant to title 67, chapter 1, part 14, is placed on any motor vehicle coming within the title provisions of chapters 1-6 of this title in a transaction not involving any change of ownership, the owner shall deliver the certificate of title, if in the owner's possession, on to the lienor, who shall forward the certificate of title, together with the required fee for noting the lien on the certificate of title, with proof of the lien required by the reasonable rules and regulations of the commissioner directly to the county clerk. The county clerk, when satisfied of the lienor's right to have the lien noted on the certificate of title, shall note the lien on the certificate of title and return the certificate of title to the lienor. (b) In the event the certificate of title is in the possession of some prior lienor, the new or subordinate lienor shall forward to the county clerk the required fee for noting the lien, together with proof of the lien required by the reasonable rules and regulations of the commissioner, and the county clerk, when satisfied of the right of the lienor to have the lien noted on the certificate of title, shall forward the application and proof of lien to the department. The department shall procure the certificate of title from the lienor in whose possession it is being held, for the sole purpose of noting the new lien on the certificate of title, and shall return the certificate of title to the lienor from whom it was obtained and shall further notify the new lienor of the fact that the lien has been noted on the certificate of title. Amended by 2019 Tenn. Acts, ch. 462,Secs.s4, s5 eff. 7/1/2019. Amended by 2019 Tenn. Acts, ch. 462,s 3, eff. 7/1/2019. Acts 1951, ch. 70, § 53 (Williams, § 5538.153); Acts 1978, ch. 686, § 2; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 59-324; Acts 2007, ch. 484, § 24.
(a) When any new lien, other than a lien dependent solely upon possession, or a lien of the state for taxes established pursuant to title 67, chapter 1, part 14, is placed on any motor vehicle coming within the title provisions of chapters 1-6 of this title in a transaction not involving any change of ownership, the owner shall deliver the certificate of title, if in the owner's possession, on to the lienor, who shall forward the certificate of title, together with the required fee for noting the lien on the certificate of title, with proof of the lien required by the reasonable rules and regulations of the commissioner directly to the county clerk. The county clerk, when satisfied of the lienor's right to have the lien noted on the certificate of title, shall note the lien on the certificate of title and return the certificate of title to the lienor.
(b) In the event the certificate of title is in the possession of some prior lienor, the new or subordinate lienor shall forward to the county clerk the required fee for noting the lien, together with proof of the lien required by the reasonable rules and regulations of the commissioner, and the county clerk, when satisfied of the right of the lienor to have the lien noted on the certificate of title, shall forward the application and proof of lien to the department. The department shall procure the certificate of title from the lienor in whose possession it is being held, for the sole purpose of noting the new lien on the certificate of title, and shall return the certificate of title to the lienor from whom it was obtained and shall further notify the new lienor of the fact that the lien has been noted on the certificate of title.
Amended by 2019 Tenn. Acts, ch. 462,Secs.s4, s5 eff. 7/1/2019.
Amended by 2019 Tenn. Acts, ch. 462,s 3, eff. 7/1/2019.
Acts 1951, ch. 70, § 53 (Williams, § 5538.153); Acts 1978, ch. 686, § 2; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 59-324; Acts 2007, ch. 484, § 24.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-9-218 — TN Code / Title 55 / Chapter 9 / Section 55-9-218
Carbon monoxide detectors
Status: in_force

(a) A recreational vehicle that is leased or rented must have in such vehicle a carbon monoxide detector in proper working order. All leases or rental agreements for a recreational vehicle shall contain language that the carbon monoxide detector in such recreational vehicle was tested, is in proper working order, and that a demonstration of the use of such equipment was performed for the lessee of the recreational vehicle. All leases or rental agreements for recreational vehicles shall contain the following statement, an acknowledgement of which shall be initialed or signed by the lessor and lessee of such vehicle: I CERTIFY THAT AT THE TIME OF THE RENTAL/LEASE OF THIS VEHICLE THAT IT IS EQUIPPED WITH A WORKING CARBON MONOXIDE DETECTOR. (b) An action for civil damages in a court of competent jurisdiction may be brought against any lessor found violating this section, and damages sustained as a consequence of the lessor's violations may be recovered, together with all costs and attorneys' fees. Acts 2012, ch. 568, § 2.
(a) A recreational vehicle that is leased or rented must have in such vehicle a carbon monoxide detector in proper working order. All leases or rental agreements for a recreational vehicle shall contain language that the carbon monoxide detector in such recreational vehicle was tested, is in proper working order, and that a demonstration of the use of such equipment was performed for the lessee of the recreational vehicle. All leases or rental agreements for recreational vehicles shall contain the following statement, an acknowledgement of which shall be initialed or signed by the lessor and lessee of such vehicle: I CERTIFY THAT AT THE TIME OF THE RENTAL/LEASE OF THIS VEHICLE THAT IT IS EQUIPPED WITH A WORKING CARBON MONOXIDE DETECTOR.
I CERTIFY THAT AT THE TIME OF THE RENTAL/LEASE OF THIS VEHICLE THAT IT IS EQUIPPED WITH A WORKING CARBON MONOXIDE DETECTOR.
(b) An action for civil damages in a court of competent jurisdiction may be brought against any lessor found violating this section, and damages sustained as a consequence of the lessor's violations may be recovered, together with all costs and attorneys' fees.
Acts 2012, ch. 568, § 2.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-4-269 — TN Code / Title 55 / Chapter 4 / Section 55-4-269
Tennessee state guard
Status: in_force

(a) An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state and who is certified as a member in good standing of the Tennessee state guard, 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 Tennessee state guard special purpose license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c) . (b) The application for the plates shall be accompanied by a written statement from the adjutant general or the commanding officer of the Tennessee state guard certifying the applicant to be a member in good standing of the organization. (c) The special purpose license plates shall bear the official seal of the Tennessee state guard and shall bear the language "Tennessee State Guard" in an appropriate design. The plates shall be designed in consultation with the adjutant general and the commanding officer of the Tennessee state guard. (d) (1) Within thirty (30) days of terminating membership in the Tennessee state guard, a motor vehicle owner or lessee to whom a license plate has been issued pursuant to this section shall surrender the plate to the county clerk of the county of the applicant's residence. (2) The adjutant general or the commanding officer of the Tennessee state guard shall provide biannually to the department the names and addresses of all persons whose membership in the Tennessee state guard has been terminated during such period, together with such other identifying information as the commissioner may require. Amended by 2018 Tenn. Acts, ch. 1023,s 49, eff. 7/1/2018. Acts 2008, ch. 1165, § 3.
(a) An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state and who is certified as a member in good standing of the Tennessee state guard, 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 Tennessee state guard special purpose license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c) .
(b) The application for the plates shall be accompanied by a written statement from the adjutant general or the commanding officer of the Tennessee state guard certifying the applicant to be a member in good standing of the organization.
(c) The special purpose license plates shall bear the official seal of the Tennessee state guard and shall bear the language "Tennessee State Guard" in an appropriate design. The plates shall be designed in consultation with the adjutant general and the commanding officer of the Tennessee state guard.
(d) (1) Within thirty (30) days of terminating membership in the Tennessee state guard, a motor vehicle owner or lessee to whom a license plate has been issued pursuant to this section shall surrender the plate to the county clerk of the county of the applicant's residence. (2) The adjutant general or the commanding officer of the Tennessee state guard shall provide biannually to the department the names and addresses of all persons whose membership in the Tennessee state guard has been terminated during such period, together with such other identifying information as the commissioner may require.
(1) Within thirty (30) days of terminating membership in the Tennessee state guard, a motor vehicle owner or lessee to whom a license plate has been issued pursuant to this section shall surrender the plate to the county clerk of the county of the applicant's residence.
(2) The adjutant general or the commanding officer of the Tennessee state guard shall provide biannually to the department the names and addresses of all persons whose membership in the Tennessee state guard has been terminated during such period, together with such other identifying information as the commissioner may require.
Amended by 2018 Tenn. Acts, ch. 1023,s 49, eff. 7/1/2018.
Acts 2008, ch. 1165, § 3.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-8-153 — TN Code / Title 55 / Chapter 8 / Section 55-8-153
Establishment of speed zones
Status: in_force

(a) The department of transportation is empowered to lower the speed limits prescribed in § 55-8-152 in business, urban or residential districts, or at any congested area, dangerous intersection or whenever and wherever the department shall determine, upon the basis of an engineering and traffic investigation, that the public safety requires a lower speed limit. (b) Appropriate signs giving notice of the lower speed limit shall be erected by the department at such places or put on the highway where the prescribed speed limits are effective. (c) (1) (A) The legislative authorities of municipalities shall possess the power to prescribe lower speed limits on highways designated as state highways in their respective jurisdictions when, on the basis of an engineering and traffic investigation, it is shown that the public safety requires a lower speed limit. (B) Engineering and traffic investigations used to establish special speed zone locations and speed limits by municipalities on state highways shall be made in accordance with established traffic engineering practices and in a manner that conforms to the Tennessee manual on uniform traffic control devices (MUTCD). The investigations shall be documented and documentation shall be maintained by the jurisdiction performing or sponsoring the investigation. (C) All signs, signals and other forms of public notification of the speed limits, road hazards and other traffic conditions shall comply with the MUTCD. (2) The legislative bodies of municipalities shall also possess the power to prescribe lower speed limits within certain areas or zones, or on designated highways, avenues or streets that are not designated as state highways in their respective jurisdictions, and to erect appropriate signs and traffic signals. (d) The legislative body of any county, except the legislative bodies of any counties having a commission form of government, has the power to prescribe such lower speed limits as it may deem appropriate on any road being maintained by the county and shall erect appropriate signs and traffic signals. In those counties having a commission form of government, the board of commissioners has the power prescribed in this section. (e) A violation of the speed limits established by the department pursuant to subsection (a) is a Class B misdemeanor, punishable by fine only, when employees of the department or construction workers are present. The department, or its agents, are directed to indicate the presence of workers or department employees with signs with flashing amber lights; provided, that this penalty is applicable in highway construction zones only to those speeding violations that have been detected by radar, infrared or similar detection devices. The amount of the fine imposed pursuant to subsection (a) for violations that occur in work zones where the speed limits have been reduced by the department and when employees of the department or construction workers are present shall be not less than two hundred fifty dollars ($250). Acts 1955, ch. 329, § 52; impl. am. Acts 1959, ch. 9, § 3; Acts 1965, ch. 94, § 2; 1972, ch. 829, § 7; 1976, ch. 491, § 1; T.C.A., § 59-853; Acts 1981, ch. 261, § 12; 1995, ch. 389, § 2; 1996, ch. 609, § 2; 2007, ch. 450, § 2.
(a) The department of transportation is empowered to lower the speed limits prescribed in § 55-8-152 in business, urban or residential districts, or at any congested area, dangerous intersection or whenever and wherever the department shall determine, upon the basis of an engineering and traffic investigation, that the public safety requires a lower speed limit.
(b) Appropriate signs giving notice of the lower speed limit shall be erected by the department at such places or put on the highway where the prescribed speed limits are effective.
(c) (1) (A) The legislative authorities of municipalities shall possess the power to prescribe lower speed limits on highways designated as state highways in their respective jurisdictions when, on the basis of an engineering and traffic investigation, it is shown that the public safety requires a lower speed limit. (B) Engineering and traffic investigations used to establish special speed zone locations and speed limits by municipalities on state highways shall be made in accordance with established traffic engineering practices and in a manner that conforms to the Tennessee manual on uniform traffic control devices (MUTCD). The investigations shall be documented and documentation shall be maintained by the jurisdiction performing or sponsoring the investigation. (C) All signs, signals and other forms of public notification of the speed limits, road hazards and other traffic conditions shall comply with the MUTCD. (2) The legislative bodies of municipalities shall also possess the power to prescribe lower speed limits within certain areas or zones, or on designated highways, avenues or streets that are not designated as state highways in their respective jurisdictions, and to erect appropriate signs and traffic signals.
(1) (A) The legislative authorities of municipalities shall possess the power to prescribe lower speed limits on highways designated as state highways in their respective jurisdictions when, on the basis of an engineering and traffic investigation, it is shown that the public safety requires a lower speed limit. (B) Engineering and traffic investigations used to establish special speed zone locations and speed limits by municipalities on state highways shall be made in accordance with established traffic engineering practices and in a manner that conforms to the Tennessee manual on uniform traffic control devices (MUTCD). The investigations shall be documented and documentation shall be maintained by the jurisdiction performing or sponsoring the investigation. (C) All signs, signals and other forms of public notification of the speed limits, road hazards and other traffic conditions shall comply with the MUTCD.
(A) The legislative authorities of municipalities shall possess the power to prescribe lower speed limits on highways designated as state highways in their respective jurisdictions when, on the basis of an engineering and traffic investigation, it is shown that the public safety requires a lower speed limit.
(B) Engineering and traffic investigations used to establish special speed zone locations and speed limits by municipalities on state highways shall be made in accordance with established traffic engineering practices and in a manner that conforms to the Tennessee manual on uniform traffic control devices (MUTCD). The investigations shall be documented and documentation shall be maintained by the jurisdiction performing or sponsoring the investigation.
(C) All signs, signals and other forms of public notification of the speed limits, road hazards and other traffic conditions shall comply with the MUTCD.
(2) The legislative bodies of municipalities shall also possess the power to prescribe lower speed limits within certain areas or zones, or on designated highways, avenues or streets that are not designated as state highways in their respective jurisdictions, and to erect appropriate signs and traffic signals.
(d) The legislative body of any county, except the legislative bodies of any counties having a commission form of government, has the power to prescribe such lower speed limits as it may deem appropriate on any road being maintained by the county and shall erect appropriate signs and traffic signals. In those counties having a commission form of government, the board of commissioners has the power prescribed in this section.
(e) A violation of the speed limits established by the department pursuant to subsection (a) is a Class B misdemeanor, punishable by fine only, when employees of the department or construction workers are present. The department, or its agents, are directed to indicate the presence of workers or department employees with signs with flashing amber lights; provided, that this penalty is applicable in highway construction zones only to those speeding violations that have been detected by radar, infrared or similar detection devices. The amount of the fine imposed pursuant to subsection (a) for violations that occur in work zones where the speed limits have been reduced by the department and when employees of the department or construction workers are present shall be not less than two hundred fifty dollars ($250).
Acts 1955, ch. 329, § 52; impl. am. Acts 1959, ch. 9, § 3; Acts 1965, ch. 94, § 2; 1972, ch. 829, § 7; 1976, ch. 491, § 1; T.C.A., § 59-853; Acts 1981, ch. 261, § 12; 1995, ch. 389, § 2; 1996, ch. 609, § 2; 2007, ch. 450, § 2.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-10-503 — TN Code / Title 55 / Chapter 10 / Section 55-10-503
Additional penalties - Restricted licenses - Revocation of license
Status: in_force

(a) (1) In addition to the punishment prescribed in § 55-10-502 , the department shall revoke, for a period of one (1) year, the driver license of any person or persons convicted of drag racing. (2) Notwithstanding subdivision (a)(1), the trial judge has the discretion to allow the continued use of a restricted motor vehicle operator's license or order the issuance of a restricted motor vehicle operator's license to a person convicted of drag racing for the first time to the same extent, for the same purposes, under the same conditions and in the same manner as is authorized in § 55-10-409 for persons convicted for the first time of driving under the influence of an intoxicant. (b) In addition to the punishment prescribed in subdivision (a)(1), the department shall permanently revoke the driver license of any person or persons convicted of drag racing for the second time within a ten-year period, and the person or persons shall not thereafter be entitled to drive or operate a motor vehicle upon any public highway of this state. Amended by 2013 Tenn. Acts, ch. 154,s 42, eff. 7/1/2013. Acts 1959, ch. 115, § 3; T.C.A., § 59-1042; Acts 1986, ch. 842, § 15; 1987, ch. 407, § 1.
(a) (1) In addition to the punishment prescribed in § 55-10-502 , the department shall revoke, for a period of one (1) year, the driver license of any person or persons convicted of drag racing. (2) Notwithstanding subdivision (a)(1), the trial judge has the discretion to allow the continued use of a restricted motor vehicle operator's license or order the issuance of a restricted motor vehicle operator's license to a person convicted of drag racing for the first time to the same extent, for the same purposes, under the same conditions and in the same manner as is authorized in § 55-10-409 for persons convicted for the first time of driving under the influence of an intoxicant.
(1) In addition to the punishment prescribed in § 55-10-502 , the department shall revoke, for a period of one (1) year, the driver license of any person or persons convicted of drag racing.
(2) Notwithstanding subdivision (a)(1), the trial judge has the discretion to allow the continued use of a restricted motor vehicle operator's license or order the issuance of a restricted motor vehicle operator's license to a person convicted of drag racing for the first time to the same extent, for the same purposes, under the same conditions and in the same manner as is authorized in § 55-10-409 for persons convicted for the first time of driving under the influence of an intoxicant.
(b) In addition to the punishment prescribed in subdivision (a)(1), the department shall permanently revoke the driver license of any person or persons convicted of drag racing for the second time within a ten-year period, and the person or persons shall not thereafter be entitled to drive or operate a motor vehicle upon any public highway of this state.
Amended by 2013 Tenn. Acts, ch. 154,s 42, eff. 7/1/2013.
Acts 1959, ch. 115, § 3; T.C.A., § 59-1042; Acts 1986, ch. 842, § 15; 1987, ch. 407, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-31-401 — TN Code / Title 55 / Chapter 31 / Section 55-31-401
Part definitions
Status: in_force

As used in this part, unless the context otherwise requires: (1) "Motor vehicle": (A) Means a self-propelled vehicle that is designed for use upon the highway, including trailers and semitrailers designed for use with the vehicle, and every vehicle that is propelled by electric power obtained from overhead wires but not operated upon rails, except traction engines, road rollers, and farm tractors; and (B) Does not include a motorized bicycle as defined in § 55-8-101 ; and (2) "Person" includes a natural person, firm, association, corporation, or partnership. Added by 2024 Tenn. Acts, ch. 1017,s 4, eff. 7/1/2024.
As used in this part, unless the context otherwise requires:
(1) "Motor vehicle": (A) Means a self-propelled vehicle that is designed for use upon the highway, including trailers and semitrailers designed for use with the vehicle, and every vehicle that is propelled by electric power obtained from overhead wires but not operated upon rails, except traction engines, road rollers, and farm tractors; and (B) Does not include a motorized bicycle as defined in § 55-8-101 ; and
(A) Means a self-propelled vehicle that is designed for use upon the highway, including trailers and semitrailers designed for use with the vehicle, and every vehicle that is propelled by electric power obtained from overhead wires but not operated upon rails, except traction engines, road rollers, and farm tractors; and
(B) Does not include a motorized bicycle as defined in § 55-8-101 ; and
(2) "Person" includes a natural person, firm, association, corporation, or partnership.
Added by 2024 Tenn. Acts, ch. 1017,s 4, eff. 7/1/2024.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-12-120 — TN Code / Title 55 / Chapter 12 / Section 55-12-120
Certificate of insurance as proof of financial responsibility
Status: in_force

Proof of financial responsibility may be furnished by filing with the commissioner the written certificate of any insurance carrier duly authorized to do business in this state, certifying that there is in effect a motor vehicle liability policy for the benefit of the person required to furnish proof of financial responsibility. This certificate shall give the effective date of the motor vehicle liability policy, which date shall be the same as the effective date of the certificate, and shall designate by explicit description or by appropriate reference all motor vehicles covered thereby, unless the policy is issued to a person who is not the owner of the motor vehicle. Acts 1977, ch. 446, § 20; T.C.A., § 59-1270.
Proof of financial responsibility may be furnished by filing with the commissioner the written certificate of any insurance carrier duly authorized to do business in this state, certifying that there is in effect a motor vehicle liability policy for the benefit of the person required to furnish proof of financial responsibility. This certificate shall give the effective date of the motor vehicle liability policy, which date shall be the same as the effective date of the certificate, and shall designate by explicit description or by appropriate reference all motor vehicles covered thereby, unless the policy is issued to a person who is not the owner of the motor vehicle.
Acts 1977, ch. 446, § 20; T.C.A., § 59-1270.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-4-298 — TN Code / Title 55 / Chapter 4 / Section 55-4-298
Agriculture
Status: in_force

(a) An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state and who wishes to promote agriculture in Tennessee through market development, education, and awareness, 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 agriculture specialty earmarked license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c) . (b) (1) The additional fee imposed by § 55-4-204 for the issuance of agricultural specialty earmarked license plates, minus the expense the state has incurred in designing and manufacturing the plates, shall be earmarked for and appropriated to the department of agriculture for deposit in the agricultural development fund. (2) The agricultural development fund shall be used exclusively for funding projects and activities that promote market development for agricultural products, as well as promoting information, education, and awareness about agriculture in Tennessee. (3) The commissioner of agriculture may issue grants from the agricultural development fund for the purposes set forth in this section. (4) Moneys in the agricultural development fund shall not revert to the general fund at the end of any fiscal year, but shall be carried forward in a reserve fund into the next fiscal year to be reappropriated for the purposes set forth in this section. All interest accruing on investments and deposits in the agricultural development fund not otherwise expended shall be returned to and made a part of the fund. (c) The specialty earmarked plates provided for in this section shall be designed in consultation with the commissioner of agriculture. Amended by 2018 Tenn. Acts, ch. 1023,s 49, eff. 7/1/2018. Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1.
(a) An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state and who wishes to promote agriculture in Tennessee through market development, education, and awareness, 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 agriculture specialty earmarked license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c) .
(b) (1) The additional fee imposed by § 55-4-204 for the issuance of agricultural specialty earmarked license plates, minus the expense the state has incurred in designing and manufacturing the plates, shall be earmarked for and appropriated to the department of agriculture for deposit in the agricultural development fund. (2) The agricultural development fund shall be used exclusively for funding projects and activities that promote market development for agricultural products, as well as promoting information, education, and awareness about agriculture in Tennessee. (3) The commissioner of agriculture may issue grants from the agricultural development fund for the purposes set forth in this section. (4) Moneys in the agricultural development fund shall not revert to the general fund at the end of any fiscal year, but shall be carried forward in a reserve fund into the next fiscal year to be reappropriated for the purposes set forth in this section. All interest accruing on investments and deposits in the agricultural development fund not otherwise expended shall be returned to and made a part of the fund.
(1) The additional fee imposed by § 55-4-204 for the issuance of agricultural specialty earmarked license plates, minus the expense the state has incurred in designing and manufacturing the plates, shall be earmarked for and appropriated to the department of agriculture for deposit in the agricultural development fund.
(2) The agricultural development fund shall be used exclusively for funding projects and activities that promote market development for agricultural products, as well as promoting information, education, and awareness about agriculture in Tennessee.
(3) The commissioner of agriculture may issue grants from the agricultural development fund for the purposes set forth in this section.
(4) Moneys in the agricultural development fund shall not revert to the general fund at the end of any fiscal year, but shall be carried forward in a reserve fund into the next fiscal year to be reappropriated for the purposes set forth in this section. All interest accruing on investments and deposits in the agricultural development fund not otherwise expended shall be returned to and made a part of the fund.
(c) The specialty earmarked plates provided for in this section shall be designed in consultation with the commissioner of agriculture.
Amended by 2018 Tenn. Acts, ch. 1023,s 49, eff. 7/1/2018.
Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-5-120 — TN Code / Title 55 / Chapter 5 / Section 55-5-120
Penalty for violations
Status: in_force

(a) It is a Class C misdemeanor for any person to violate any of the provisions of chapters 1-6 of this title unless such violation is by chapters 1-6 of this title or other law of this state declared to be a felony. (b) Unless another penalty is in chapters 1-6 of this title or by the laws of this state provided, a violation of any of the provisions of chapters 1-6 of this title is a Class C misdemeanor. Acts 1951, ch. 70, § 93 (Williams, § 5538.193); T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 59-516; T.C.A., § 59-521; Acts 1989, ch. 591, § 113.
(a) It is a Class C misdemeanor for any person to violate any of the provisions of chapters 1-6 of this title unless such violation is by chapters 1-6 of this title or other law of this state declared to be a felony.
(b) Unless another penalty is in chapters 1-6 of this title or by the laws of this state provided, a violation of any of the provisions of chapters 1-6 of this title is a Class C misdemeanor.
Acts 1951, ch. 70, § 93 (Williams, § 5538.193); T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 59-516; T.C.A., § 59-521; Acts 1989, ch. 591, § 113.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-4-353 — TN Code / Title 55 / Chapter 4 / Section 55-4-353
Civic awareness and education
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 The Equity Alliance 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 contain an appropriate logo or design representative of The Equity Alliance. The plates must be designed in consultation with a representative from The Equity Alliance. (3) The funds produced from the sale of the new specialty earmarked license plates must be allocated to The Equity Alliance, in accordance with § 55-4-301 . The funds must be used exclusively in this state to equip Tennesseans with tools and strategies to engage in the civic process and empower them to take action on issues affecting their daily lives through civic engagement, voter registration, voter education, and other related programs. (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 Millennial Debt 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 (b) must contain an appropriate design representative of the Millennial Debt Foundation. The plates must be designed in consultation with a representative of the Millennial Debt Foundation. (3) The funds produced from the sale of the new specialty earmarked license plates must be allocated to the Millennial Debt Foundation, in accordance with § 55-4-301 . The funds must be used exclusively for educating the public on the need for fiscal stewardship in government. 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 The Equity Alliance 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 contain an appropriate logo or design representative of The Equity Alliance. The plates must be designed in consultation with a representative from The Equity Alliance. (3) The funds produced from the sale of the new specialty earmarked license plates must be allocated to The Equity Alliance, in accordance with § 55-4-301 . The funds must be used exclusively in this state to equip Tennesseans with tools and strategies to engage in the civic process and empower them to take action on issues affecting their daily lives through civic engagement, voter registration, voter education, and other related 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 , shall be issued a The Equity Alliance 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 contain an appropriate logo or design representative of The Equity Alliance. The plates must be designed in consultation with a representative from The Equity Alliance.
(3) The funds produced from the sale of the new specialty earmarked license plates must be allocated to The Equity Alliance, in accordance with § 55-4-301 . The funds must be used exclusively in this state to equip Tennesseans with tools and strategies to engage in the civic process and empower them to take action on issues affecting their daily lives through civic engagement, voter registration, voter education, and other related programs.
(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 Millennial Debt 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 (b) must contain an appropriate design representative of the Millennial Debt Foundation. The plates must be designed in consultation with a representative of the Millennial Debt Foundation. (3) The funds produced from the sale of the new specialty earmarked license plates must be allocated to the Millennial Debt Foundation, in accordance with § 55-4-301 . The funds must be used exclusively for educating the public on the need for fiscal stewardship in government.
(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 Millennial Debt 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 (b) must contain an appropriate design representative of the Millennial Debt Foundation. The plates must be designed in consultation with a representative of the Millennial Debt Foundation.
(3) The funds produced from the sale of the new specialty earmarked license plates must be allocated to the Millennial Debt Foundation, in accordance with § 55-4-301 . The funds must be used exclusively for educating the public on the need for fiscal stewardship in government.
Added by 2023 Tenn. Acts, ch. 250, s 1, eff. 7/1/2023.