Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-12-136 — TN Code / Title 55 / Chapter 12 / Section 55-12-136
The Tennessee automobile insurance plan
Status: in_force

(a) For the purposes of this section: (1) "Commissioner" means the commissioner of commerce and insurance; (2) "Department" means the department of commerce and insurance; and (3) "Plan" means the Tennessee automobile insurance plan. (b) (1) There is created a nonprofit, unincorporated legal entity to be known as the Tennessee automobile insurance plan. (2) All insurance companies licensed by the department to write direct automobile liability policies in this state shall be and remain members of the plan as a condition of the companies' authority to transact insurance in this state. (3) The plan shall perform its functions under the plan of operation established and approved under subsection (e) and shall exercise its powers through the governing committee established under subsection (c). (c) (1) The governing committee of the plan shall consist of eleven (11) individuals serving terms as established in the plan of operation. The members of the governing committee shall be appointed by the commissioner in accordance with procedures set forth in the plan. Each member of the governing committee so selected shall represent an insurer licensed by the department to do business in this state, except that two (2) members of the governing committee shall be insurance producers licensed by the department. Vacancies on the governing committee shall be filled for the remaining period of the term in the same manner as initial appointments. (2) The members of the governing committee appointed under prior law and serving in that capacity on May 7, 2009, shall continue to serve on the governing committee for the purpose of forming the initial operating plan under subsections (d) and (e). Such members are eligible for reappointment to the governing committee upon approval of the initial operating plan by the commissioner. (3) In making appointments to the governing committee, the commissioner shall consider, among other factors, whether all member insurers are fairly represented. (d) (1) The plan shall: (A) At a minimum, in a manner fair to the insurers and equitable to their policyholders, apportion among the member insurers those applicants for automobile liability policies who are in good faith entitled to, but are unable to, procure automobile liability policies through ordinary methods. All insurance companies licensed by the department to write automobile liability insurance in this state shall subscribe to and participate in the plan; (B) Assess member insurers the amounts necessary to pay the obligations of the plan under this section; (C) Employ or retain persons who are necessary to handle claims and perform other duties required by the plan; (D) Negotiate and become a party to contracts that are necessary to carry out the purpose of this section; (E) Establish procedures whereby nominations for the governing committee will be submitted to the commissioner; and (F) Perform other acts that are necessary or proper to effectuate the purpose of this section. (2) With respect to any suit involving the plan: (A) Any action relating to or arising out of this section against the plan shall be brought in a court in this state. The court shall have exclusive jurisdiction over any action relating to or arising out of this section against the plan; and (B) Exclusive venue in any action brought against the plan is in the circuit or chancery court in Davidson County; provided, that the plan may waive such venue as to a specific action. (e) (1) The plan shall submit to the commissioner a plan of operation and any amendments to the plan of operation necessary or suitable to assure the fair, reasonable, and equitable administration of the plan. The plan of operation and any amendments to the plan of operation shall become effective upon approval in writing by the commissioner. (2) All member insurers shall comply with the plan of operation. (3) The plan of operation shall establish the procedures through which all the powers and duties of the plan under this section shall be performed. (4) The plan of operation may provide that any or all powers and duties of the plan shall be delegated to a corporation, association or other organization that performs or will perform functions similar to those of the plan or its equivalent in two (2) or more states. (f) (1) Upon request of the governing committee, the commissioner shall provide the plan with a statement of the net direct written premiums of each member insurer. (2) The commissioner may after notice and hearing: (A) Suspend or revoke the certificate of authority to transact insurance in this state of any member insurer that fails to pay an assessment when due or that fails to comply with the plan of operation; or (B) Impose a civil penalty of not more than five percent (5%) of the unpaid assessment per month on any member insurer that fails to pay an assessment when due; provided, however, that no penalty shall be less than one hundred dollars ($100) per month. (g) (1) The plan shall be subject to examination by the commissioner. The commissioner may impose an examination fee to cover the costs of administering the examination. (2) The governing committee shall submit to the department, not later than September 30 of each year, a financial report for the preceding calendar year in a form approved by the commissioner. (3) The plan shall submit all rates, supplementary rate information, supporting information, policy forms and endorsements in compliance with all applicable standards set forth in title 56, chapter 5, part 1. (h) The plan shall be exempt from payment of all fees, except examination fees under subdivision (g)(1) and all taxes levied by this state or any of its subdivisions, except taxes levied on real or personal property. (i) There shall be no liability on the part of, and no cause of action of any nature shall arise against, any member insurer, the plan or its agents or employees, the governing committee or the commissioner or the commissioner's representatives for any action taken by them in the performance of their powers and duties under this section. (j) Any insurance company that is aggrieved by any ruling or decision of the commissioner made pursuant to this section shall be entitled to a review of the decision in the manner provided by the Uniform Administrative Procedures Act, compiled in title 4, chapter 5. Acts 1977, ch. 446, § 36; T.C.A., § 59-1286; Acts 1983, ch. 53, § 9; 2009, ch. 183, § 1.
(a) For the purposes of this section: (1) "Commissioner" means the commissioner of commerce and insurance; (2) "Department" means the department of commerce and insurance; and (3) "Plan" means the Tennessee automobile insurance plan.
(1) "Commissioner" means the commissioner of commerce and insurance;
(2) "Department" means the department of commerce and insurance; and
(3) "Plan" means the Tennessee automobile insurance plan.
(b) (1) There is created a nonprofit, unincorporated legal entity to be known as the Tennessee automobile insurance plan. (2) All insurance companies licensed by the department to write direct automobile liability policies in this state shall be and remain members of the plan as a condition of the companies' authority to transact insurance in this state. (3) The plan shall perform its functions under the plan of operation established and approved under subsection (e) and shall exercise its powers through the governing committee established under subsection (c).
(1) There is created a nonprofit, unincorporated legal entity to be known as the Tennessee automobile insurance plan.
(2) All insurance companies licensed by the department to write direct automobile liability policies in this state shall be and remain members of the plan as a condition of the companies' authority to transact insurance in this state.
(3) The plan shall perform its functions under the plan of operation established and approved under subsection (e) and shall exercise its powers through the governing committee established under subsection (c).
(c) (1) The governing committee of the plan shall consist of eleven (11) individuals serving terms as established in the plan of operation. The members of the governing committee shall be appointed by the commissioner in accordance with procedures set forth in the plan. Each member of the governing committee so selected shall represent an insurer licensed by the department to do business in this state, except that two (2) members of the governing committee shall be insurance producers licensed by the department. Vacancies on the governing committee shall be filled for the remaining period of the term in the same manner as initial appointments. (2) The members of the governing committee appointed under prior law and serving in that capacity on May 7, 2009, shall continue to serve on the governing committee for the purpose of forming the initial operating plan under subsections (d) and (e). Such members are eligible for reappointment to the governing committee upon approval of the initial operating plan by the commissioner. (3) In making appointments to the governing committee, the commissioner shall consider, among other factors, whether all member insurers are fairly represented.
(1) The governing committee of the plan shall consist of eleven (11) individuals serving terms as established in the plan of operation. The members of the governing committee shall be appointed by the commissioner in accordance with procedures set forth in the plan. Each member of the governing committee so selected shall represent an insurer licensed by the department to do business in this state, except that two (2) members of the governing committee shall be insurance producers licensed by the department. Vacancies on the governing committee shall be filled for the remaining period of the term in the same manner as initial appointments.
(2) The members of the governing committee appointed under prior law and serving in that capacity on May 7, 2009, shall continue to serve on the governing committee for the purpose of forming the initial operating plan under subsections (d) and (e). Such members are eligible for reappointment to the governing committee upon approval of the initial operating plan by the commissioner.
(3) In making appointments to the governing committee, the commissioner shall consider, among other factors, whether all member insurers are fairly represented.
(d) (1) The plan shall: (A) At a minimum, in a manner fair to the insurers and equitable to their policyholders, apportion among the member insurers those applicants for automobile liability policies who are in good faith entitled to, but are unable to, procure automobile liability policies through ordinary methods. All insurance companies licensed by the department to write automobile liability insurance in this state shall subscribe to and participate in the plan; (B) Assess member insurers the amounts necessary to pay the obligations of the plan under this section; (C) Employ or retain persons who are necessary to handle claims and perform other duties required by the plan; (D) Negotiate and become a party to contracts that are necessary to carry out the purpose of this section; (E) Establish procedures whereby nominations for the governing committee will be submitted to the commissioner; and (F) Perform other acts that are necessary or proper to effectuate the purpose of this section. (2) With respect to any suit involving the plan: (A) Any action relating to or arising out of this section against the plan shall be brought in a court in this state. The court shall have exclusive jurisdiction over any action relating to or arising out of this section against the plan; and (B) Exclusive venue in any action brought against the plan is in the circuit or chancery court in Davidson County; provided, that the plan may waive such venue as to a specific action.
(1) The plan shall: (A) At a minimum, in a manner fair to the insurers and equitable to their policyholders, apportion among the member insurers those applicants for automobile liability policies who are in good faith entitled to, but are unable to, procure automobile liability policies through ordinary methods. All insurance companies licensed by the department to write automobile liability insurance in this state shall subscribe to and participate in the plan; (B) Assess member insurers the amounts necessary to pay the obligations of the plan under this section; (C) Employ or retain persons who are necessary to handle claims and perform other duties required by the plan; (D) Negotiate and become a party to contracts that are necessary to carry out the purpose of this section; (E) Establish procedures whereby nominations for the governing committee will be submitted to the commissioner; and (F) Perform other acts that are necessary or proper to effectuate the purpose of this section.
(A) At a minimum, in a manner fair to the insurers and equitable to their policyholders, apportion among the member insurers those applicants for automobile liability policies who are in good faith entitled to, but are unable to, procure automobile liability policies through ordinary methods. All insurance companies licensed by the department to write automobile liability insurance in this state shall subscribe to and participate in the plan;
(B) Assess member insurers the amounts necessary to pay the obligations of the plan under this section;
(C) Employ or retain persons who are necessary to handle claims and perform other duties required by the plan;
(D) Negotiate and become a party to contracts that are necessary to carry out the purpose of this section;
(E) Establish procedures whereby nominations for the governing committee will be submitted to the commissioner; and
(F) Perform other acts that are necessary or proper to effectuate the purpose of this section.
(2) With respect to any suit involving the plan: (A) Any action relating to or arising out of this section against the plan shall be brought in a court in this state. The court shall have exclusive jurisdiction over any action relating to or arising out of this section against the plan; and (B) Exclusive venue in any action brought against the plan is in the circuit or chancery court in Davidson County; provided, that the plan may waive such venue as to a specific action.
(A) Any action relating to or arising out of this section against the plan shall be brought in a court in this state. The court shall have exclusive jurisdiction over any action relating to or arising out of this section against the plan; and
(B) Exclusive venue in any action brought against the plan is in the circuit or chancery court in Davidson County; provided, that the plan may waive such venue as to a specific action.
(e) (1) The plan shall submit to the commissioner a plan of operation and any amendments to the plan of operation necessary or suitable to assure the fair, reasonable, and equitable administration of the plan. The plan of operation and any amendments to the plan of operation shall become effective upon approval in writing by the commissioner. (2) All member insurers shall comply with the plan of operation. (3) The plan of operation shall establish the procedures through which all the powers and duties of the plan under this section shall be performed. (4) The plan of operation may provide that any or all powers and duties of the plan shall be delegated to a corporation, association or other organization that performs or will perform functions similar to those of the plan or its equivalent in two (2) or more states.
(1) The plan shall submit to the commissioner a plan of operation and any amendments to the plan of operation necessary or suitable to assure the fair, reasonable, and equitable administration of the plan. The plan of operation and any amendments to the plan of operation shall become effective upon approval in writing by the commissioner.
(2) All member insurers shall comply with the plan of operation.
(3) The plan of operation shall establish the procedures through which all the powers and duties of the plan under this section shall be performed.
(4) The plan of operation may provide that any or all powers and duties of the plan shall be delegated to a corporation, association or other organization that performs or will perform functions similar to those of the plan or its equivalent in two (2) or more states.
(f) (1) Upon request of the governing committee, the commissioner shall provide the plan with a statement of the net direct written premiums of each member insurer. (2) The commissioner may after notice and hearing: (A) Suspend or revoke the certificate of authority to transact insurance in this state of any member insurer that fails to pay an assessment when due or that fails to comply with the plan of operation; or (B) Impose a civil penalty of not more than five percent (5%) of the unpaid assessment per month on any member insurer that fails to pay an assessment when due; provided, however, that no penalty shall be less than one hundred dollars ($100) per month.
(1) Upon request of the governing committee, the commissioner shall provide the plan with a statement of the net direct written premiums of each member insurer.
(2) The commissioner may after notice and hearing: (A) Suspend or revoke the certificate of authority to transact insurance in this state of any member insurer that fails to pay an assessment when due or that fails to comply with the plan of operation; or (B) Impose a civil penalty of not more than five percent (5%) of the unpaid assessment per month on any member insurer that fails to pay an assessment when due; provided, however, that no penalty shall be less than one hundred dollars ($100) per month.
(A) Suspend or revoke the certificate of authority to transact insurance in this state of any member insurer that fails to pay an assessment when due or that fails to comply with the plan of operation; or
(B) Impose a civil penalty of not more than five percent (5%) of the unpaid assessment per month on any member insurer that fails to pay an assessment when due; provided, however, that no penalty shall be less than one hundred dollars ($100) per month.
(g) (1) The plan shall be subject to examination by the commissioner. The commissioner may impose an examination fee to cover the costs of administering the examination. (2) The governing committee shall submit to the department, not later than September 30 of each year, a financial report for the preceding calendar year in a form approved by the commissioner. (3) The plan shall submit all rates, supplementary rate information, supporting information, policy forms and endorsements in compliance with all applicable standards set forth in title 56, chapter 5, part 1.
(1) The plan shall be subject to examination by the commissioner. The commissioner may impose an examination fee to cover the costs of administering the examination.
(2) The governing committee shall submit to the department, not later than September 30 of each year, a financial report for the preceding calendar year in a form approved by the commissioner.
(3) The plan shall submit all rates, supplementary rate information, supporting information, policy forms and endorsements in compliance with all applicable standards set forth in title 56, chapter 5, part 1.
(h) The plan shall be exempt from payment of all fees, except examination fees under subdivision (g)(1) and all taxes levied by this state or any of its subdivisions, except taxes levied on real or personal property.
(i) There shall be no liability on the part of, and no cause of action of any nature shall arise against, any member insurer, the plan or its agents or employees, the governing committee or the commissioner or the commissioner's representatives for any action taken by them in the performance of their powers and duties under this section.
(j) Any insurance company that is aggrieved by any ruling or decision of the commissioner made pursuant to this section shall be entitled to a review of the decision in the manner provided by the Uniform Administrative Procedures Act, compiled in title 4, chapter 5.
Acts 1977, ch. 446, § 36; T.C.A., § 59-1286; Acts 1983, ch. 53, § 9; 2009, ch. 183, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-4-124 — TN Code / Title 55 / Chapter 4 / Section 55-4-124
Registration of vehicles hauling certain materials
Status: in_force

(a) Any vehicle, freight motor vehicle, truck-tractor, trailer or semitrailer or combinations of these vehicles that transports crushed stone, fill dirt and rock, soil, bulk sand, coal, clay, shale, phosphate muck, asphalt, concrete, other building materials, forest products, unfinished lumber, ferrous and non-ferrous scrap metal, agricultural lime, liquid fertilizer, solid waste, coal ash and agricultural products shall be permitted to register as follows: (1) The vehicles hauling such products in a single unit motor vehicle having four (4) axles and designed to unload itself, with a gross weight not exceeding seventy-four thousand pounds (74,000 lbs.) including the load thereon, shall be permitted to register as a Class 10 vehicle, or purchase the appropriate special zone tag; and (2) The vehicles hauling such products in a single unit motor vehicle having three (3) axles and designed to unload itself, with a gross weight not exceeding sixty-six thousand pounds (66,000 lbs.) including the load thereon, shall be permitted to register as a Class 9 vehicle, or purchase the appropriate special zone tag. (b) If the commissioner of transportation is formally notified by an appropriate federal official that, as a result of any provision of this section, the state will lose federal funds, then the provision shall be void and inoperative. (c) Nothing contained in this section shall be construed as authorizing these vehicles to use that portion of the state highway system designated as the interstate system. Acts 1982, ch. 953, § 1; 1983, ch. 319, § 2; 1987, ch. 152, § 1; 1987, ch. 153, §§ 1, 2; 1988, ch. 514, § 1; 1992, ch. 566, § 1; 1994, ch. 680, § 1; 1995, ch. 20, § 1; 1996, ch. 882, § 3.
(a) Any vehicle, freight motor vehicle, truck-tractor, trailer or semitrailer or combinations of these vehicles that transports crushed stone, fill dirt and rock, soil, bulk sand, coal, clay, shale, phosphate muck, asphalt, concrete, other building materials, forest products, unfinished lumber, ferrous and non-ferrous scrap metal, agricultural lime, liquid fertilizer, solid waste, coal ash and agricultural products shall be permitted to register as follows: (1) The vehicles hauling such products in a single unit motor vehicle having four (4) axles and designed to unload itself, with a gross weight not exceeding seventy-four thousand pounds (74,000 lbs.) including the load thereon, shall be permitted to register as a Class 10 vehicle, or purchase the appropriate special zone tag; and (2) The vehicles hauling such products in a single unit motor vehicle having three (3) axles and designed to unload itself, with a gross weight not exceeding sixty-six thousand pounds (66,000 lbs.) including the load thereon, shall be permitted to register as a Class 9 vehicle, or purchase the appropriate special zone tag.
(1) The vehicles hauling such products in a single unit motor vehicle having four (4) axles and designed to unload itself, with a gross weight not exceeding seventy-four thousand pounds (74,000 lbs.) including the load thereon, shall be permitted to register as a Class 10 vehicle, or purchase the appropriate special zone tag; and
(2) The vehicles hauling such products in a single unit motor vehicle having three (3) axles and designed to unload itself, with a gross weight not exceeding sixty-six thousand pounds (66,000 lbs.) including the load thereon, shall be permitted to register as a Class 9 vehicle, or purchase the appropriate special zone tag.
(b) If the commissioner of transportation is formally notified by an appropriate federal official that, as a result of any provision of this section, the state will lose federal funds, then the provision shall be void and inoperative.
(c) Nothing contained in this section shall be construed as authorizing these vehicles to use that portion of the state highway system designated as the interstate system.
Acts 1982, ch. 953, § 1; 1983, ch. 319, § 2; 1987, ch. 152, § 1; 1987, ch. 153, §§ 1, 2; 1988, ch. 514, § 1; 1992, ch. 566, § 1; 1994, ch. 680, § 1; 1995, ch. 20, § 1; 1996, ch. 882, § 3.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-17-103 — TN Code / Title 55 / Chapter 17 / Section 55-17-103
Motor vehicle commission - Appointment and qualifications of members
Status: in_force

(a) (1) There is created the Tennessee motor vehicle commission to be composed of seventeen (17) members including a chair. One (1) industry member shall be selected from each of the state's nine (9) congressional districts and the chair shall be selected from the state at large. Industry members may be selected and appointed by the governor from lists of qualified persons furnished by interested automotive groups including, but not limited to, the Tennessee Automotive Association. Two (2) members shall be affiliated with motor vehicle manufacturers licensed in Tennessee, to be selected from the state at large. Such manufacturer members may be selected and appointed by the governor from a list of qualified persons submitted by interested motor vehicle manufacturers licensed in Tennessee; however, in the event of a vacancy in either of the manufacturer member positions, if the manufacturers fail to submit a list of qualified persons within one hundred eighty (180) days of any vacancy, the governor may appoint a consumer member to fill each vacancy to serve the full term of the manufacturer member. One (1) member shall be an independent motor vehicle dealer whose principal inventory is used motor vehicles. Such member may be selected and appointed by the governor from lists of qualified persons furnished by interested automotive groups, including, but not limited to, the Tennessee Independent Automobile Dealers Association. In addition thereto, the governor shall appoint four (4) additional consumer members of the commission who are citizens of this state and who have no interest, direct or indirect, in the commercial manufacture or sale of motor vehicles. (2) The industry members of the commission shall not have a history of suspension or revocation of a motor vehicle dealers' license. Such members shall each have demonstrated an interest in improving the retail motor vehicle industry by membership in a trade association that meets the requirements set forth in § 50-6-405(c)(1) . Each member shall be a citizen of the United States, shall have been a resident of this state for at least five (5) years, and shall be a franchised motor vehicle dealer. The governor shall consult with interested automotive groups including, but not limited to, the Tennessee Automotive Association to determine a qualified person to fill each of the ten (10) industry member positions. (3) In making appointments to the commission, the governor shall strive to ensure that at least one (1) person serving on the commission is sixty (60) years of age or older and that at least one (1) person serving on the commission is a member of a racial minority. (b) Each of the industry members of the commission who may be appointed by the governor from the list of names submitted by interested automotive groups, including, but not limited to, the Tennessee Automotive Association shall, at the time of appointment, be a resident of the congressional district from which the member is appointed, except the chair, who shall be a resident of the state. All shall be of good moral character and each shall have been actually engaged in the manufacture, distribution or sale of motor vehicles in this state for not less than five (5) consecutive years preceding the appointment, and each shall have the necessary qualifications for the applicable license under this part, and be the holder of such license at all times while a member of the commission. Each of the industry members of the commission appointed by the governor shall at the time of appointment be a resident of the state, shall be a person of good moral character, and shall have been for a period of not less than five (5) consecutive years next preceding the appointment licensed as a factory representative of some manufacturer authorized to do business in Tennessee, and shall further hold the license at all times while a member of the commission. Being engaged in more than one (1) licensed activity shall not disqualify a person from serving as an industry member of the commission. (c) The member of the commission who may be appointed by the governor from the list of names submitted by interested automotive groups, including, but not limited to, the Tennessee Independent Automobile Dealers Association shall, at the time of appointment, be a resident of the state. The member shall be of good moral character and shall have been actually engaged in the sale of used motor vehicles in this state for not less than five (5) consecutive years preceding the appointment, and shall have the necessary qualifications for the applicable license under this part, and be the holder of such license at all times while a member of the commission. Amended by 2014 Tenn. Acts, ch. 978,s 3, eff. 5/22/2014. Amended by 2014 Tenn. Acts, ch. 978,s 2, eff. 5/22/2014. Amended by 2014 Tenn. Acts, ch. 978,s 1, eff. 5/22/2014. Acts 1955, ch. 79, § 3; 1977, ch. 162, § 14; T.C.A., § 59-1703; Acts 1985, ch. 50, §§ 1, 2; 1986, ch. 658, § 1; 1986, ch. 934, § 2; 1988, ch. 1013, § 23; 1997, ch. 190, § 1; 2012, ch. 776, §§ 3, 4.
(a) (1) There is created the Tennessee motor vehicle commission to be composed of seventeen (17) members including a chair. One (1) industry member shall be selected from each of the state's nine (9) congressional districts and the chair shall be selected from the state at large. Industry members may be selected and appointed by the governor from lists of qualified persons furnished by interested automotive groups including, but not limited to, the Tennessee Automotive Association. Two (2) members shall be affiliated with motor vehicle manufacturers licensed in Tennessee, to be selected from the state at large. Such manufacturer members may be selected and appointed by the governor from a list of qualified persons submitted by interested motor vehicle manufacturers licensed in Tennessee; however, in the event of a vacancy in either of the manufacturer member positions, if the manufacturers fail to submit a list of qualified persons within one hundred eighty (180) days of any vacancy, the governor may appoint a consumer member to fill each vacancy to serve the full term of the manufacturer member. One (1) member shall be an independent motor vehicle dealer whose principal inventory is used motor vehicles. Such member may be selected and appointed by the governor from lists of qualified persons furnished by interested automotive groups, including, but not limited to, the Tennessee Independent Automobile Dealers Association. In addition thereto, the governor shall appoint four (4) additional consumer members of the commission who are citizens of this state and who have no interest, direct or indirect, in the commercial manufacture or sale of motor vehicles. (2) The industry members of the commission shall not have a history of suspension or revocation of a motor vehicle dealers' license. Such members shall each have demonstrated an interest in improving the retail motor vehicle industry by membership in a trade association that meets the requirements set forth in § 50-6-405(c)(1) . Each member shall be a citizen of the United States, shall have been a resident of this state for at least five (5) years, and shall be a franchised motor vehicle dealer. The governor shall consult with interested automotive groups including, but not limited to, the Tennessee Automotive Association to determine a qualified person to fill each of the ten (10) industry member positions. (3) In making appointments to the commission, the governor shall strive to ensure that at least one (1) person serving on the commission is sixty (60) years of age or older and that at least one (1) person serving on the commission is a member of a racial minority.
(1) There is created the Tennessee motor vehicle commission to be composed of seventeen (17) members including a chair. One (1) industry member shall be selected from each of the state's nine (9) congressional districts and the chair shall be selected from the state at large. Industry members may be selected and appointed by the governor from lists of qualified persons furnished by interested automotive groups including, but not limited to, the Tennessee Automotive Association. Two (2) members shall be affiliated with motor vehicle manufacturers licensed in Tennessee, to be selected from the state at large. Such manufacturer members may be selected and appointed by the governor from a list of qualified persons submitted by interested motor vehicle manufacturers licensed in Tennessee; however, in the event of a vacancy in either of the manufacturer member positions, if the manufacturers fail to submit a list of qualified persons within one hundred eighty (180) days of any vacancy, the governor may appoint a consumer member to fill each vacancy to serve the full term of the manufacturer member. One (1) member shall be an independent motor vehicle dealer whose principal inventory is used motor vehicles. Such member may be selected and appointed by the governor from lists of qualified persons furnished by interested automotive groups, including, but not limited to, the Tennessee Independent Automobile Dealers Association. In addition thereto, the governor shall appoint four (4) additional consumer members of the commission who are citizens of this state and who have no interest, direct or indirect, in the commercial manufacture or sale of motor vehicles.
(2) The industry members of the commission shall not have a history of suspension or revocation of a motor vehicle dealers' license. Such members shall each have demonstrated an interest in improving the retail motor vehicle industry by membership in a trade association that meets the requirements set forth in § 50-6-405(c)(1) . Each member shall be a citizen of the United States, shall have been a resident of this state for at least five (5) years, and shall be a franchised motor vehicle dealer. The governor shall consult with interested automotive groups including, but not limited to, the Tennessee Automotive Association to determine a qualified person to fill each of the ten (10) industry member positions.
(3) In making appointments to the commission, the governor shall strive to ensure that at least one (1) person serving on the commission is sixty (60) years of age or older and that at least one (1) person serving on the commission is a member of a racial minority.
(b) Each of the industry members of the commission who may be appointed by the governor from the list of names submitted by interested automotive groups, including, but not limited to, the Tennessee Automotive Association shall, at the time of appointment, be a resident of the congressional district from which the member is appointed, except the chair, who shall be a resident of the state. All shall be of good moral character and each shall have been actually engaged in the manufacture, distribution or sale of motor vehicles in this state for not less than five (5) consecutive years preceding the appointment, and each shall have the necessary qualifications for the applicable license under this part, and be the holder of such license at all times while a member of the commission. Each of the industry members of the commission appointed by the governor shall at the time of appointment be a resident of the state, shall be a person of good moral character, and shall have been for a period of not less than five (5) consecutive years next preceding the appointment licensed as a factory representative of some manufacturer authorized to do business in Tennessee, and shall further hold the license at all times while a member of the commission. Being engaged in more than one (1) licensed activity shall not disqualify a person from serving as an industry member of the commission.
(c) The member of the commission who may be appointed by the governor from the list of names submitted by interested automotive groups, including, but not limited to, the Tennessee Independent Automobile Dealers Association shall, at the time of appointment, be a resident of the state. The member shall be of good moral character and shall have been actually engaged in the sale of used motor vehicles in this state for not less than five (5) consecutive years preceding the appointment, and shall have the necessary qualifications for the applicable license under this part, and be the holder of such license at all times while a member of the commission.
Amended by 2014 Tenn. Acts, ch. 978,s 3, eff. 5/22/2014.
Amended by 2014 Tenn. Acts, ch. 978,s 2, eff. 5/22/2014.
Amended by 2014 Tenn. Acts, ch. 978,s 1, eff. 5/22/2014.
Acts 1955, ch. 79, § 3; 1977, ch. 162, § 14; T.C.A., § 59-1703; Acts 1985, ch. 50, §§ 1, 2; 1986, ch. 658, § 1; 1986, ch. 934, § 2; 1988, ch. 1013, § 23; 1997, ch. 190, § 1; 2012, ch. 776, §§ 3, 4.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-14-107 — TN Code / Title 55 / Chapter 14 / Section 55-14-107
Dealer failing to keep records of purchases and resales of used parts and accessories - Penalty
Status: in_force

Any dealer who fails to comply with §§ 55-14-104 - 55-14-106 commits a Class C misdemeanor. Acts 1957, ch. 411, § 4; T.C.A., § 59-1407; Acts 1989, ch. 591, § 113.
Any dealer who fails to comply with §§ 55-14-104 - 55-14-106 commits a Class C misdemeanor.
Acts 1957, ch. 411, § 4; T.C.A., § 59-1407; Acts 1989, ch. 591, § 113.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-17-418 — TN Code / Title 55 / Chapter 17 / Section 55-17-418
Additional license not required for sale of recreational vehicles to, at, or through automobile auction or public automobile auction
Status: in_force

(a) Whenever a license issued under part 1 of this chapter is required to engage in business as, or to act as a buyer or seller at, an automobile auction or public automobile auction, an additional license issued under this part shall not also be required for the sale of recreational vehicles to, at, or through an automobile auction or public automobile auction. (b) Whenever a license issued under part 1 of this chapter is required to engage in business as, or to act as a buyer or seller at, an automotive dismantler or recycler, an additional license issued under this part shall not also be required for the sale of recreational vehicles to, at, or through an automotive dismantler or recycler. Added by 2016 Tenn. Acts, ch. 781,s 10, eff. 1/1/2017.
(a) Whenever a license issued under part 1 of this chapter is required to engage in business as, or to act as a buyer or seller at, an automobile auction or public automobile auction, an additional license issued under this part shall not also be required for the sale of recreational vehicles to, at, or through an automobile auction or public automobile auction.
(b) Whenever a license issued under part 1 of this chapter is required to engage in business as, or to act as a buyer or seller at, an automotive dismantler or recycler, an additional license issued under this part shall not also be required for the sale of recreational vehicles to, at, or through an automotive dismantler or recycler.
Added by 2016 Tenn. Acts, ch. 781,s 10, eff. 1/1/2017.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-25-112 — TN Code / Title 55 / Chapter 25 / Section 55-25-112
Penalty for violations
Status: in_force

Any person requesting the disclosure of personal information from department records who misrepresents that person's identity or makes a false statement to the department on any application required to be submitted pursuant to this chapter commits a Class C misdemeanor, punishable only by a fine not to exceed one thousand dollars ($1,000). Acts 1996, ch. 745, § 12.
Any person requesting the disclosure of personal information from department records who misrepresents that person's identity or makes a false statement to the department on any application required to be submitted pursuant to this chapter commits a Class C misdemeanor, punishable only by a fine not to exceed one thousand dollars ($1,000).
Acts 1996, ch. 745, § 12.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-50-508 — TN Code / Title 55 / Chapter 50 / Section 55-50-508
Minors withdrawn from secondary school - Administrative review of license revocation
Status: in_force

(a) Any person who has received a notice of revocation under § 55-50-502(a)(1)(J) may request an administrative review. The request shall be accompanied by any relevant evidence, deemed appropriate by the department, which the person wants the department to consider in reviewing the determination made pursuant to § 49-6-3017 . (b) When a request for administrative review is made, the department shall review the determination made pursuant to § 49-6-3017 . In the review, the department shall give consideration to any relevant evidence accompanying the request for the review. If the department determines, by the preponderance of the evidence, that the person has withdrawn from school, the department shall sustain the order of revocation. If the evidence does not support that determination, the department must rescind the order of revocation. The determination of the department upon administrative review is final unless a hearing is requested under § 55-50-509 . (c) The department shall make a determination upon administrative review prior to the effective date of the revocation order if the request for the review is received by the department within fifteen (15) days following service of the notice of revocation. Where the request for administrative review is received by the department more than fifteen (15) days following service of the notice of revocation, the department shall make its determination within seven (7) days following the receipt of the request for review. (d) A request for administrative review does not stay the license revocation. If the department is unable to make a determination within the time limits specified in subsection (c), it shall stay the revocation pending that determination. (e) The request for administrative review and submission of relevant evidence shall be made by mail on a form supplied by the department. The department shall provide forms that the person may use to request an administrative review and to submit a sworn statement, but use of the forms is not required. Amended by 2022 Tenn. Acts, ch. 878, s 7, eff. 4/14/2022. Acts 1990, ch. 819, § 6; 1995, ch. 156, § 1; 1996, ch. 763, § 4.
(a) Any person who has received a notice of revocation under § 55-50-502(a)(1)(J) may request an administrative review. The request shall be accompanied by any relevant evidence, deemed appropriate by the department, which the person wants the department to consider in reviewing the determination made pursuant to § 49-6-3017 .
(b) When a request for administrative review is made, the department shall review the determination made pursuant to § 49-6-3017 . In the review, the department shall give consideration to any relevant evidence accompanying the request for the review. If the department determines, by the preponderance of the evidence, that the person has withdrawn from school, the department shall sustain the order of revocation. If the evidence does not support that determination, the department must rescind the order of revocation. The determination of the department upon administrative review is final unless a hearing is requested under § 55-50-509 .
(c) The department shall make a determination upon administrative review prior to the effective date of the revocation order if the request for the review is received by the department within fifteen (15) days following service of the notice of revocation. Where the request for administrative review is received by the department more than fifteen (15) days following service of the notice of revocation, the department shall make its determination within seven (7) days following the receipt of the request for review.
(d) A request for administrative review does not stay the license revocation. If the department is unable to make a determination within the time limits specified in subsection (c), it shall stay the revocation pending that determination.
(e) The request for administrative review and submission of relevant evidence shall be made by mail on a form supplied by the department. The department shall provide forms that the person may use to request an administrative review and to submit a sworn statement, but use of the forms is not required.
Amended by 2022 Tenn. Acts, ch. 878, s 7, eff. 4/14/2022.
Acts 1990, ch. 819, § 6; 1995, ch. 156, § 1; 1996, ch. 763, § 4.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-50-503 — TN Code / Title 55 / Chapter 50 / Section 55-50-503
Surrender of license - Forwarding surrendered license and record of convictions to department - Report of convictions - Recommendation of suspension
Status: in_force

(a) Whenever any person is convicted of any offense for which this chapter makes mandatory the revocation of the operator's or chauffeur's license of the person by the department, the court in which the conviction is had shall require the surrender to it of all operator's and chauffeur's licenses then held by the person so convicted, and the court shall thereupon forward the licenses together with a record of the conviction to the department. (b) Every court having jurisdiction over offenses committed under this chapter, or any other statute of this state or municipal ordinance of any city or town regulating the operation of motor vehicles on highways, shall forward to the department a record of the conviction of any person in the court for a violation of any of these laws, and may recommend the suspension of the operator's or chauffeur's license of the person so convicted. (c) For the purpose of this chapter: (1) "Conviction" means a final conviction; and (2) A failure to satisfy a citation or a forfeiture of bail or collateral deposited to secure a defendant's appearance in court, which forfeiture has not been vacated, shall be equivalent to a conviction. Acts 1937, ch. 90, § 13; C. Supp. 1950, § 2715.21 (Williams, § 2715.26); Acts 1955, ch. 114, § 10; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 59-714; Acts 1986, ch. 842, § 5; T.C.A., §§ 55-7-114 , 55-7-503.
(a) Whenever any person is convicted of any offense for which this chapter makes mandatory the revocation of the operator's or chauffeur's license of the person by the department, the court in which the conviction is had shall require the surrender to it of all operator's and chauffeur's licenses then held by the person so convicted, and the court shall thereupon forward the licenses together with a record of the conviction to the department.
(b) Every court having jurisdiction over offenses committed under this chapter, or any other statute of this state or municipal ordinance of any city or town regulating the operation of motor vehicles on highways, shall forward to the department a record of the conviction of any person in the court for a violation of any of these laws, and may recommend the suspension of the operator's or chauffeur's license of the person so convicted.
(c) For the purpose of this chapter: (1) "Conviction" means a final conviction; and (2) A failure to satisfy a citation or a forfeiture of bail or collateral deposited to secure a defendant's appearance in court, which forfeiture has not been vacated, shall be equivalent to a conviction.
(1) "Conviction" means a final conviction; and
(2) A failure to satisfy a citation or a forfeiture of bail or collateral deposited to secure a defendant's appearance in court, which forfeiture has not been vacated, shall be equivalent to a conviction.
Acts 1937, ch. 90, § 13; C. Supp. 1950, § 2715.21 (Williams, § 2715.26); Acts 1955, ch. 114, § 10; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 59-714; Acts 1986, ch. 842, § 5; T.C.A., §§ 55-7-114 , 55-7-503.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-50-306 — TN Code / Title 55 / Chapter 50 / Section 55-50-306
Electronic driver license system
Status: in_force

(a) The department of safety is authorized to develop a secure and uniform system, to be known as the "electronic driver license system," for authorizing persons to present or submit evidence of a valid driver license in an optional electronic format in lieu of a physical driver license. An acceptable electronic format includes display of electronic images on a cellular telephone or any other type of portable electronic device. The department may contract with one (1) or more entities to develop the electronic driver license system. The department or entity may develop a mobile software application capable of being utilized through a person's electronic device to access an electronic image of the person's driver license. (b) The department may accept donations and grants from any source to pay the expenses the department incurs in the development of the electronic driver license system. (c) The department may take reasonable measures to publicize the electronic driver license system to potential participants. (d) The department shall not charge a fee to participate in the electronic driver license system. (e) In lieu of a physical driver license, a person who participates in the system may present or submit evidence of possession of a valid driver license in an electronic format, which shall be accepted as such evidence for identification and other purposes, including upon the request of a law enforcement officer or a seller of alcoholic beverages. The electronic driver license system shall allow law enforcement officers to verify the authenticity of the driver license. If a person displays the evidence in an electronic format pursuant to this subsection (e), the person is not consenting for a law enforcement officer to access any other contents of the electronic device. (f) The department shall disable, suspend, or terminate a person's participation in the electronic driver license system if: (1) The physical driver license issued to the participant has been cancelled, revoked, or suspended as provided in this chapter; or (2) The participant reports that the participant's electronic device has been lost or stolen. Added by 2015 Tenn. Acts, ch. 509,s 1, eff. 5/20/2015.
(a) The department of safety is authorized to develop a secure and uniform system, to be known as the "electronic driver license system," for authorizing persons to present or submit evidence of a valid driver license in an optional electronic format in lieu of a physical driver license. An acceptable electronic format includes display of electronic images on a cellular telephone or any other type of portable electronic device. The department may contract with one (1) or more entities to develop the electronic driver license system. The department or entity may develop a mobile software application capable of being utilized through a person's electronic device to access an electronic image of the person's driver license.
(b) The department may accept donations and grants from any source to pay the expenses the department incurs in the development of the electronic driver license system.
(c) The department may take reasonable measures to publicize the electronic driver license system to potential participants.
(d) The department shall not charge a fee to participate in the electronic driver license system.
(e) In lieu of a physical driver license, a person who participates in the system may present or submit evidence of possession of a valid driver license in an electronic format, which shall be accepted as such evidence for identification and other purposes, including upon the request of a law enforcement officer or a seller of alcoholic beverages. The electronic driver license system shall allow law enforcement officers to verify the authenticity of the driver license. If a person displays the evidence in an electronic format pursuant to this subsection (e), the person is not consenting for a law enforcement officer to access any other contents of the electronic device.
(f) The department shall disable, suspend, or terminate a person's participation in the electronic driver license system if: (1) The physical driver license issued to the participant has been cancelled, revoked, or suspended as provided in this chapter; or (2) The participant reports that the participant's electronic device has been lost or stolen.
(1) The physical driver license issued to the participant has been cancelled, revoked, or suspended as provided in this chapter; or
(2) The participant reports that the participant's electronic device has been lost or stolen.
Added by 2015 Tenn. Acts, ch. 509,s 1, eff. 5/20/2015.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-4-330 — TN Code / Title 55 / Chapter 4 / Section 55-4-330
Sports and recreation
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 USTA Tennessee new specialty earmarked license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c) . (2) The USTA Tennessee new specialty earmarked license plate must be designed in consultation with a representative of USTA Tennessee. (3) The funds produced from the sale of USTA Tennessee new specialty earmarked license plates must be allocated to the Tennessee Tennis Association, Incorporated, in accordance with § 55-4-301 . The funds must be used exclusively to promote and develop the game of tennis in this state to its highest potential and make it accessible to everyone. (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 Golfer new specialty earmarked license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c) . (2) The Golfer new specialty earmarked license plate must be designed in consultation with a representative of 2nd Century Foundation. (3) The funds produced from the sale of Golfer new specialty earmarked license plates must be allocated to 2nd Century Foundation in accordance with § 55-4-301 . The funds must be used exclusively to preserve the property, facilities, and tradition of the nationally recognized Johnson City Golf and Country Club in Johnson City, Tennessee. (4) Notwithstanding § 55-4-202(k)(1) , the Golfer new specialty earmarked license plate authorized pursuant to this subsection (b) has until July 1, 2025, to meet the applicable minimum issuance requirements of § 55-4-202(k)(1) . (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 in § 55-4-204 , shall be issued a Flatrock Motorsports Park 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 (c) must be designed in consultation with a representative of the Flatrock Foundation. (3) The funds produced from the sale of Flatrock Motorsports Park new specialty earmarked license plates must be allocated to the Flatrock Foundation, in accordance with § 55-4-301 . The funds must be used exclusively to support local community education for STEM programs in Tennessee schools, including elementary, middle, and high school programs. Amended by 2024 Tenn. Acts, ch. 804,s 42, eff. 7/1/2024. Amended by 2024 Tenn. Acts, ch. 804,s 14, 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 USTA Tennessee new specialty earmarked license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c) . (2) The USTA Tennessee new specialty earmarked license plate must be designed in consultation with a representative of USTA Tennessee. (3) The funds produced from the sale of USTA Tennessee new specialty earmarked license plates must be allocated to the Tennessee Tennis Association, Incorporated, in accordance with § 55-4-301 . The funds must be used exclusively to promote and develop the game of tennis in this state to its highest potential and make it accessible to everyone.
(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 USTA Tennessee new specialty earmarked license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c) .
(2) The USTA Tennessee new specialty earmarked license plate must be designed in consultation with a representative of USTA Tennessee.
(3) The funds produced from the sale of USTA Tennessee new specialty earmarked license plates must be allocated to the Tennessee Tennis Association, Incorporated, in accordance with § 55-4-301 . The funds must be used exclusively to promote and develop the game of tennis in this state to its highest potential and make it accessible to everyone.
(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 Golfer new specialty earmarked license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c) . (2) The Golfer new specialty earmarked license plate must be designed in consultation with a representative of 2nd Century Foundation. (3) The funds produced from the sale of Golfer new specialty earmarked license plates must be allocated to 2nd Century Foundation in accordance with § 55-4-301 . The funds must be used exclusively to preserve the property, facilities, and tradition of the nationally recognized Johnson City Golf and Country Club in Johnson City, Tennessee. (4) Notwithstanding § 55-4-202(k)(1) , the Golfer new specialty earmarked license plate authorized pursuant to this subsection (b) has until July 1, 2025, to meet the applicable minimum issuance requirements of § 55-4-202(k)(1) .
(1) An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state, upon complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and the fee provided for in § 55-4-204 , shall be issued a Golfer new specialty earmarked license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c) .
(2) The Golfer new specialty earmarked license plate must be designed in consultation with a representative of 2nd Century Foundation.
(3) The funds produced from the sale of Golfer new specialty earmarked license plates must be allocated to 2nd Century Foundation in accordance with § 55-4-301 . The funds must be used exclusively to preserve the property, facilities, and tradition of the nationally recognized Johnson City Golf and Country Club in Johnson City, Tennessee.
(4) Notwithstanding § 55-4-202(k)(1) , the Golfer new specialty earmarked license plate authorized pursuant to this subsection (b) has until July 1, 2025, to meet the applicable minimum issuance requirements of § 55-4-202(k)(1) .
(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 in § 55-4-204 , shall be issued a Flatrock Motorsports Park 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 (c) must be designed in consultation with a representative of the Flatrock Foundation. (3) The funds produced from the sale of Flatrock Motorsports Park new specialty earmarked license plates must be allocated to the Flatrock Foundation, in accordance with § 55-4-301 . The funds must be used exclusively to support local community education for STEM programs in Tennessee schools, including elementary, middle, and high school 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 in § 55-4-204 , shall be issued a Flatrock Motorsports Park 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 (c) must be designed in consultation with a representative of the Flatrock Foundation.
(3) The funds produced from the sale of Flatrock Motorsports Park new specialty earmarked license plates must be allocated to the Flatrock Foundation, in accordance with § 55-4-301 . The funds must be used exclusively to support local community education for STEM programs in Tennessee schools, including elementary, middle, and high school programs.
Amended by 2024 Tenn. Acts, ch. 804,s 42, eff. 7/1/2024.
Amended by 2024 Tenn. Acts, ch. 804,s 14, eff. 7/1/2024.
Added by 2023 Tenn. Acts, ch. 250, s 1, eff. 7/1/2023.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-10-412 — TN Code / Title 55 / Chapter 10 / Section 55-10-412
Disposition of fines - Collection of increased fines - County fund - Disposition of fund
Status: in_force

(a) A portion of any fine imposed upon a person for a violation of § 55-10-401 , up to the maximum fine actually imposed, shall be returned to the sheriff of a county jail or to the chief administrative officer of a city jail for the purpose of reimbursing the sheriff or officer for the cost of incarcerating the person for each night the person is actually in custody for a violation of § 55-10-401 . This reimbursement shall be in the same amount as is provided by § 8-26-105 , and shall not in any event be less than the actual cost of maintaining the person and shall be reimbursed in the manner provided by § 8-26-106 . (b) The proceeds from the increased portion of the fines for driving under the influence of an intoxicant provided for in chapter 948 of the Public Acts of 1994, the additional fines for reckless driving, under § 55-10-205(d)(2) , and the additional fines for aggravated reckless driving, under § 55-10-209(b)(2) must be collected by the respective court clerks and then deposited in a dedicated county fund. This fund does not revert to the county general fund at the end of a fiscal year but remains for the purposes set out in this section. For the purposes of this section, the "increased portion of the fines for driving under the influence of an intoxicant" means the first one hundred dollars ($100) collected after the initial collection of two hundred fifty dollars ($250) on a first offense, the first one hundred dollars ($100) collected after the initial collection of five hundred dollars ($500) on a second offense, and the first one hundred dollars ($100) collected after the initial collection of one thousand dollars ($1,000) on a third or subsequent offense. (c) The respective counties shall be authorized to expend the funds collected pursuant to subsection (b) by appropriations to any of the following: (1) Alcohol, drug, and mental health treatment facilities licensed by the department of mental health and substance abuse services; (2) Metropolitan drug commissions or other similar programs sanctioned by the governor's Drug Free Tennessee program for the purposes of chapter 948 of the Public Acts of 1994; (3) Organizations exempted from the payment of federal income taxes by § 501(c)(3) of the federal Internal Revenue Code ( 26 U.S.C. § 501(c)(3) ), whose primary mission is to educate the public on the dangers of illicit drug use, alcohol abuse, or the co-occurring disorder of both alcohol and drug abuse and mental illness or to render treatment for alcohol and drug addiction, or the co-occurring disorder of both alcohol and drug abuse and mental illness; (4) Specialized court programs and specialized court dockets that supervise offenders who suffer from alcohol and drug abuse, or the co-occurring disorder of both alcohol and drug abuse and mental illness; (5) Organizations that operate drug, alcohol, or co-occurring disorder treatment programs for the homeless or indigent; (6) Agencies or organizations for purposes of drug testing of offenders who have been placed on misdemeanor probation; and (7) The employment of a probation officer for the purposes of supervising drug and alcohol offenders. Amended by 2022 Tenn. Acts, ch. 1022, s 3, eff. 7/1/2022. Amended by 2022 Tenn. Acts, ch. 1022, s 2, eff. 7/1/2022. Amended by 2013 Tenn. Acts, ch. 154, s 12, eff. 7/1/2013. Acts 1969, ch. 292, § 8; 1973, ch. 400, § 3; T.C.A., § 59-1051; Acts 1989, ch. 435, § 1; 1989, ch. 591, §§ 1, 6, 113; 1994, ch. 851, § 1; 1995, ch. 512, §§ 1, 2; 2000, ch. 752, §§ 1, 2; 2002, ch. 855, § 2; 2009 , ch. 321, § 2; 2010 , ch. 921, § 11; 2011 , ch. 298, §§ 2, 3.
(a) A portion of any fine imposed upon a person for a violation of § 55-10-401 , up to the maximum fine actually imposed, shall be returned to the sheriff of a county jail or to the chief administrative officer of a city jail for the purpose of reimbursing the sheriff or officer for the cost of incarcerating the person for each night the person is actually in custody for a violation of § 55-10-401 . This reimbursement shall be in the same amount as is provided by § 8-26-105 , and shall not in any event be less than the actual cost of maintaining the person and shall be reimbursed in the manner provided by § 8-26-106 .
(b) The proceeds from the increased portion of the fines for driving under the influence of an intoxicant provided for in chapter 948 of the Public Acts of 1994, the additional fines for reckless driving, under § 55-10-205(d)(2) , and the additional fines for aggravated reckless driving, under § 55-10-209(b)(2) must be collected by the respective court clerks and then deposited in a dedicated county fund. This fund does not revert to the county general fund at the end of a fiscal year but remains for the purposes set out in this section. For the purposes of this section, the "increased portion of the fines for driving under the influence of an intoxicant" means the first one hundred dollars ($100) collected after the initial collection of two hundred fifty dollars ($250) on a first offense, the first one hundred dollars ($100) collected after the initial collection of five hundred dollars ($500) on a second offense, and the first one hundred dollars ($100) collected after the initial collection of one thousand dollars ($1,000) on a third or subsequent offense.
(c) The respective counties shall be authorized to expend the funds collected pursuant to subsection (b) by appropriations to any of the following: (1) Alcohol, drug, and mental health treatment facilities licensed by the department of mental health and substance abuse services; (2) Metropolitan drug commissions or other similar programs sanctioned by the governor's Drug Free Tennessee program for the purposes of chapter 948 of the Public Acts of 1994; (3) Organizations exempted from the payment of federal income taxes by § 501(c)(3) of the federal Internal Revenue Code ( 26 U.S.C. § 501(c)(3) ), whose primary mission is to educate the public on the dangers of illicit drug use, alcohol abuse, or the co-occurring disorder of both alcohol and drug abuse and mental illness or to render treatment for alcohol and drug addiction, or the co-occurring disorder of both alcohol and drug abuse and mental illness; (4) Specialized court programs and specialized court dockets that supervise offenders who suffer from alcohol and drug abuse, or the co-occurring disorder of both alcohol and drug abuse and mental illness; (5) Organizations that operate drug, alcohol, or co-occurring disorder treatment programs for the homeless or indigent; (6) Agencies or organizations for purposes of drug testing of offenders who have been placed on misdemeanor probation; and (7) The employment of a probation officer for the purposes of supervising drug and alcohol offenders.
(1) Alcohol, drug, and mental health treatment facilities licensed by the department of mental health and substance abuse services;
(2) Metropolitan drug commissions or other similar programs sanctioned by the governor's Drug Free Tennessee program for the purposes of chapter 948 of the Public Acts of 1994;
(3) Organizations exempted from the payment of federal income taxes by § 501(c)(3) of the federal Internal Revenue Code ( 26 U.S.C. § 501(c)(3) ), whose primary mission is to educate the public on the dangers of illicit drug use, alcohol abuse, or the co-occurring disorder of both alcohol and drug abuse and mental illness or to render treatment for alcohol and drug addiction, or the co-occurring disorder of both alcohol and drug abuse and mental illness;
(4) Specialized court programs and specialized court dockets that supervise offenders who suffer from alcohol and drug abuse, or the co-occurring disorder of both alcohol and drug abuse and mental illness;
(5) Organizations that operate drug, alcohol, or co-occurring disorder treatment programs for the homeless or indigent;
(6) Agencies or organizations for purposes of drug testing of offenders who have been placed on misdemeanor probation; and
(7) The employment of a probation officer for the purposes of supervising drug and alcohol offenders.
Amended by 2022 Tenn. Acts, ch. 1022, s 3, eff. 7/1/2022.
Amended by 2022 Tenn. Acts, ch. 1022, s 2, eff. 7/1/2022.
Amended by 2013 Tenn. Acts, ch. 154, s 12, eff. 7/1/2013.
Acts 1969, ch. 292, § 8; 1973, ch. 400, § 3; T.C.A., § 59-1051; Acts 1989, ch. 435, § 1; 1989, ch. 591, §§ 1, 6, 113; 1994, ch. 851, § 1; 1995, ch. 512, §§ 1, 2; 2000, ch. 752, §§ 1, 2; 2002, ch. 855, § 2; 2009 , ch. 321, § 2; 2010 , ch. 921, § 11; 2011 , ch. 298, §§ 2, 3.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-12-125 — TN Code / Title 55 / Chapter 12 / Section 55-12-125
Cancellation of bond or policy - Return of deposit
Status: in_force

(a) Upon request, in any of the following events described in subdivisions (a)(1)-(3), the commissioner shall consent to the immediate cancellation of a bond or certificate of insurance, or the commissioner shall authorize the return of money deposited as proof of financial responsibility, which the state treasurer shall return to the person entitled to the money, or the commissioner shall waive the requirement of filing proof of financial responsibility: (1) At any time after expiration of the period of suspension or revocation if, during the period of suspension or revocation, the person has maintained the bond, certificate of insurance, or deposit for the entire period of suspension or revocation, and the commissioner has not received record of an additional conviction that would require or permit the suspension or revocation of the license, registration or nonresident's operating privilege of the person by or for whom the proof was furnished; (2) In the event of the death of the person on whose behalf the proof was filed or the permanent incapacity of the person to operate a motor vehicle; or (3) If the license of a person who has given proof is surrendered to the commissioner and the person's registration is surrendered to the commissioner of revenue. (b) The commissioner shall not consent to the cancellation of a bond or return of money if: (1) There is a pending action for damages upon a covered liability; (2) A judgment upon the liability is unsatisfied; or (3) In the event the person who has filed the bond or deposited the money has, within the preceding suspension or revocation period, been involved as the owner or operator in a motor vehicle accident resulting in injury or damage to another's person or property. (c) An affidavit of the applicant as to the nonexistence of the facts in subdivisions (b)(1)-(3), or that the applicant has been released from all liability or has been finally adjudicated not to be liable for such injury or damage, is sufficient evidence thereof in the absence of evidence to the contrary in the records of the commissioner. (d) If a person whose proof of financial responsibility has been cancelled or returned under subdivision (a)(1) applies to the commissioner for a license within the period of suspension or revocation when proof of financial responsibility was originally required, then the commissioner shall refuse the application and request that the commissioner of revenue refuse any registration application, unless the applicant reestablishes the proof of financial responsibility for the remainder of the suspension or revocation. (e) The department of safety may release a person's requirement to provide proof of financial responsibility after the expiration of the period of suspension or revocation if the department of safety's records establish that during the suspension or revocation period, the person was not convicted of an additional offense authorizing or requiring the suspension or revocation of the person's license, nor was the person's license suspended, revoked, prohibited, or cancelled due to a separate violation of law. This subsection (e) does not apply if there is an unsatisfied judgment based on a motor vehicle accident. Amended by 2023 Tenn. Acts, ch. 336, s 8, eff. 1/1/2024. Acts 1977, ch. 446, § 25; T.C.A., § 59-1275; Acts 2007 , ch. 484, § 87.
(a) Upon request, in any of the following events described in subdivisions (a)(1)-(3), the commissioner shall consent to the immediate cancellation of a bond or certificate of insurance, or the commissioner shall authorize the return of money deposited as proof of financial responsibility, which the state treasurer shall return to the person entitled to the money, or the commissioner shall waive the requirement of filing proof of financial responsibility: (1) At any time after expiration of the period of suspension or revocation if, during the period of suspension or revocation, the person has maintained the bond, certificate of insurance, or deposit for the entire period of suspension or revocation, and the commissioner has not received record of an additional conviction that would require or permit the suspension or revocation of the license, registration or nonresident's operating privilege of the person by or for whom the proof was furnished; (2) In the event of the death of the person on whose behalf the proof was filed or the permanent incapacity of the person to operate a motor vehicle; or (3) If the license of a person who has given proof is surrendered to the commissioner and the person's registration is surrendered to the commissioner of revenue.
(1) At any time after expiration of the period of suspension or revocation if, during the period of suspension or revocation, the person has maintained the bond, certificate of insurance, or deposit for the entire period of suspension or revocation, and the commissioner has not received record of an additional conviction that would require or permit the suspension or revocation of the license, registration or nonresident's operating privilege of the person by or for whom the proof was furnished;
(2) In the event of the death of the person on whose behalf the proof was filed or the permanent incapacity of the person to operate a motor vehicle; or
(3) If the license of a person who has given proof is surrendered to the commissioner and the person's registration is surrendered to the commissioner of revenue.
(b) The commissioner shall not consent to the cancellation of a bond or return of money if: (1) There is a pending action for damages upon a covered liability; (2) A judgment upon the liability is unsatisfied; or (3) In the event the person who has filed the bond or deposited the money has, within the preceding suspension or revocation period, been involved as the owner or operator in a motor vehicle accident resulting in injury or damage to another's person or property.
(1) There is a pending action for damages upon a covered liability;
(2) A judgment upon the liability is unsatisfied; or
(3) In the event the person who has filed the bond or deposited the money has, within the preceding suspension or revocation period, been involved as the owner or operator in a motor vehicle accident resulting in injury or damage to another's person or property.
(c) An affidavit of the applicant as to the nonexistence of the facts in subdivisions (b)(1)-(3), or that the applicant has been released from all liability or has been finally adjudicated not to be liable for such injury or damage, is sufficient evidence thereof in the absence of evidence to the contrary in the records of the commissioner.
(d) If a person whose proof of financial responsibility has been cancelled or returned under subdivision (a)(1) applies to the commissioner for a license within the period of suspension or revocation when proof of financial responsibility was originally required, then the commissioner shall refuse the application and request that the commissioner of revenue refuse any registration application, unless the applicant reestablishes the proof of financial responsibility for the remainder of the suspension or revocation.
(e) The department of safety may release a person's requirement to provide proof of financial responsibility after the expiration of the period of suspension or revocation if the department of safety's records establish that during the suspension or revocation period, the person was not convicted of an additional offense authorizing or requiring the suspension or revocation of the person's license, nor was the person's license suspended, revoked, prohibited, or cancelled due to a separate violation of law. This subsection (e) does not apply if there is an unsatisfied judgment based on a motor vehicle accident.
Amended by 2023 Tenn. Acts, ch. 336, s 8, eff. 1/1/2024.
Acts 1977, ch. 446, § 25; T.C.A., § 59-1275; Acts 2007 , ch. 484, § 87.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-4-337 — TN Code / Title 55 / Chapter 4 / Section 55-4-337
[Repealed]
Status: repealed

Repealed by 2023 Tenn. Acts, ch. 250, s 1, eff. 7/1/2023. Added by 2022 Tenn. Acts, ch. 968, s 52, 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 52, eff. 7/1/2022.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-8-132 — TN Code / Title 55 / Chapter 8 / Section 55-8-132
Operation of vehicles and streetcars on approach of emergency vehicle and when approaching certain stationary vehicles
Status: in_force

(a) Upon the immediate approach of an authorized emergency vehicle making use of audible and visual signals meeting the requirements of the applicable laws of this state, or of a police vehicle properly and lawfully making use of an audible signal only: (1) The driver of every other vehicle shall yield the right-of-way and shall immediately drive to a position parallel to, and as close as possible to, the right-hand edge or curb of the roadway clear of any intersection, and shall stop and remain in that position until the authorized emergency vehicle has passed, except when otherwise directed by a police officer; and (2) Upon the approach of an authorized emergency vehicle, as stated above, the operator of every streetcar shall immediately stop the streetcar clear of any intersection and keep it in that position until the authorized emergency vehicle has passed, except when otherwise directed by a police officer. (b) Upon approaching a stationary authorized emergency vehicle, when the vehicle is giving a signal by use of flashing lights, a person who drives an approaching vehicle shall: (1) Proceeding with due caution, yield the right-of-way by making a lane change into a lane not adjacent to that of the authorized emergency vehicle, if possible with due regard to safety and traffic conditions, if on a highway having at least four (4) lanes with not less than two (2) lanes proceeding in the same direction as the approaching vehicle; or (2) Proceeding with due caution, reduce the speed of the vehicle, maintaining a safe speed for road conditions, if changing lanes would be impossible or unsafe. (c) (1) Upon approaching a stationary recovery vehicle, highway maintenance vehicle, solid waste vehicle, or utility service vehicle, when the vehicle is giving a signal by use of authorized flashing lights, a person who drives an approaching vehicle shall: (A) Proceeding with due caution, yield the right-of-way by making a lane change into a lane not adjacent to the stationary recovery vehicle, highway maintenance vehicle, solid waste vehicle, or utility service vehicle if possible with due regard to safety and traffic conditions, if on a highway having at least four (4) lanes with not less than two (2) lanes proceeding in the same direction as the approaching vehicle; or (B) Proceeding with due caution, reduce the speed of the vehicle, maintaining a safe speed for road conditions, if changing lanes would be impossible or unsafe. (2) Upon approaching a stationary vehicle that is giving a signal by use of flashing hazard lights, a person who drives an approaching vehicle shall: (A) Proceeding with due caution, yield the right-of-way by making a lane change into a lane not adjacent to the stationary vehicle if possible with due regard to safety and traffic conditions, if on a highway having at least four (4) lanes with not less than two (2) lanes proceeding in the same direction as the approaching vehicle; or (B) Proceeding with due caution, reduce the speed of the vehicle, maintaining a safe speed for road conditions, if changing lanes would be impossible or unsafe. (d) For the purpose of this section unless the context otherwise requires: (1) "Highway maintenance vehicle" means a vehicle used for the maintenance of highways and roadways in this state and is: (A) Owned or operated by the department of transportation, a county, a municipality or other political subdivision of this state; or, (B) Owned or operated by a contractor under contract with the department of transportation, a county, a municipality or other political subdivision of this state; (2) "Recovery vehicle" means a truck that is specifically designed for towing a disabled vehicle or a combination of vehicles; and (3) "Utility" means any person, municipality, county, metropolitan government, electric cooperative, telephone cooperative, board, commission, district or any entity created or authorized by public act, private act, or general law to provide electricity, natural gas, water, waste water services, telephone services, or any combination thereof, for sale to consumers in any particular service area. (e) (1) The first violation of this section is a Class B misdemeanor punishable by a fine of not less than two hundred fifty dollars ($250) nor more than five hundred dollars ($500), or imprisonment not longer than thirty (30) days, or both. (2) A second violation of this section is a Class B misdemeanor punishable by a fine of one thousand dollars ($1,000). (3) A third or subsequent violation of this section is a Class A misdemeanor punishable by a fine of two thousand five hundred dollars ($2,500). (f) This section shall not operate to relieve the driver of a stationary motor vehicle, authorized emergency vehicle, recovery vehicle, solid waste vehicle, or highway maintenance vehicle from the duty to operate the vehicle with due regard for the safety of all persons using the highway. (g) (1) A person violating this section may also be prosecuted and convicted for the offense of: (A) The Class E felony of criminally negligent homicide under § 39-13-212 , if the conduct giving rise to the violation of this section is criminally negligent, as defined in § 39-11-302(d) , and results in the death of another; (B) The Class D felony of reckless homicide under § 39-13-215 , if the conduct giving rise to the violation of this section is reckless, as defined in § 39-11-302 , and results in the killing of another; and (C) The Class C felony of vehicular homicide under § 39-13-213 , if the conduct giving rise to the violation of this section is reckless, as defined in § 39-11-302(c) , proximately results in the killing of another and the conduct created a substantial risk of death to another. (2) Nothing in subdivision (g)(1) shall be construed as precluding a person who violates this section from being prosecuted and convicted under any other applicable offense. (h) Upon approaching a stationary motor vehicle that is located on the shoulder, emergency lane, or median and the vehicle is giving a signal by use of flashing lights, a person who drives an approaching vehicle shall: (1) Proceeding with due caution, yield the right-of-way by making a lane change into a lane not adjacent to that of the motor vehicle, if possible with due regard to safety and traffic conditions, if on a highway having at least four (4) lanes with not less than two (2) lanes proceeding in the same direction as the approaching vehicle; or (2) Proceeding with due caution, reduce the speed of the vehicle, maintaining a safe speed for road conditions, if changing lanes would be impossible or unsafe. Amended by 2023 Tenn. Acts, ch. 354, s 2, eff. 7/1/2023. Amended by 2023 Tenn. Acts, ch. 354, s 1, eff. 7/1/2023. Amended by 2017 Tenn. Acts, ch. 95, s 2, eff. 7/1/2017. Amended by 2017 Tenn. Acts, ch. 95, s 1, eff. 7/1/2017. Amended by 2015 Tenn. Acts, ch. 368, s 2, eff. 7/1/2015. Amended by 2015 Tenn. Acts, ch. 368, s 1, eff. 7/1/2015. Acts 1955, ch. 329, § 31; T.C.A., § 59-832; Acts 2003 , ch. 384, § 1; 2006, ch. 653, § 1; 2008 , ch. 869, §§ 1, 2; 2011 , ch. 40, §§ 1-3.
(a) Upon the immediate approach of an authorized emergency vehicle making use of audible and visual signals meeting the requirements of the applicable laws of this state, or of a police vehicle properly and lawfully making use of an audible signal only: (1) The driver of every other vehicle shall yield the right-of-way and shall immediately drive to a position parallel to, and as close as possible to, the right-hand edge or curb of the roadway clear of any intersection, and shall stop and remain in that position until the authorized emergency vehicle has passed, except when otherwise directed by a police officer; and (2) Upon the approach of an authorized emergency vehicle, as stated above, the operator of every streetcar shall immediately stop the streetcar clear of any intersection and keep it in that position until the authorized emergency vehicle has passed, except when otherwise directed by a police officer.
(1) The driver of every other vehicle shall yield the right-of-way and shall immediately drive to a position parallel to, and as close as possible to, the right-hand edge or curb of the roadway clear of any intersection, and shall stop and remain in that position until the authorized emergency vehicle has passed, except when otherwise directed by a police officer; and
(2) Upon the approach of an authorized emergency vehicle, as stated above, the operator of every streetcar shall immediately stop the streetcar clear of any intersection and keep it in that position until the authorized emergency vehicle has passed, except when otherwise directed by a police officer.
(b) Upon approaching a stationary authorized emergency vehicle, when the vehicle is giving a signal by use of flashing lights, a person who drives an approaching vehicle shall: (1) Proceeding with due caution, yield the right-of-way by making a lane change into a lane not adjacent to that of the authorized emergency vehicle, if possible with due regard to safety and traffic conditions, if on a highway having at least four (4) lanes with not less than two (2) lanes proceeding in the same direction as the approaching vehicle; or (2) Proceeding with due caution, reduce the speed of the vehicle, maintaining a safe speed for road conditions, if changing lanes would be impossible or unsafe.
(1) Proceeding with due caution, yield the right-of-way by making a lane change into a lane not adjacent to that of the authorized emergency vehicle, if possible with due regard to safety and traffic conditions, if on a highway having at least four (4) lanes with not less than two (2) lanes proceeding in the same direction as the approaching vehicle; or
(2) Proceeding with due caution, reduce the speed of the vehicle, maintaining a safe speed for road conditions, if changing lanes would be impossible or unsafe.
(c) (1) Upon approaching a stationary recovery vehicle, highway maintenance vehicle, solid waste vehicle, or utility service vehicle, when the vehicle is giving a signal by use of authorized flashing lights, a person who drives an approaching vehicle shall: (A) Proceeding with due caution, yield the right-of-way by making a lane change into a lane not adjacent to the stationary recovery vehicle, highway maintenance vehicle, solid waste vehicle, or utility service vehicle if possible with due regard to safety and traffic conditions, if on a highway having at least four (4) lanes with not less than two (2) lanes proceeding in the same direction as the approaching vehicle; or (B) Proceeding with due caution, reduce the speed of the vehicle, maintaining a safe speed for road conditions, if changing lanes would be impossible or unsafe. (2) Upon approaching a stationary vehicle that is giving a signal by use of flashing hazard lights, a person who drives an approaching vehicle shall: (A) Proceeding with due caution, yield the right-of-way by making a lane change into a lane not adjacent to the stationary vehicle if possible with due regard to safety and traffic conditions, if on a highway having at least four (4) lanes with not less than two (2) lanes proceeding in the same direction as the approaching vehicle; or (B) Proceeding with due caution, reduce the speed of the vehicle, maintaining a safe speed for road conditions, if changing lanes would be impossible or unsafe.
(1) Upon approaching a stationary recovery vehicle, highway maintenance vehicle, solid waste vehicle, or utility service vehicle, when the vehicle is giving a signal by use of authorized flashing lights, a person who drives an approaching vehicle shall: (A) Proceeding with due caution, yield the right-of-way by making a lane change into a lane not adjacent to the stationary recovery vehicle, highway maintenance vehicle, solid waste vehicle, or utility service vehicle if possible with due regard to safety and traffic conditions, if on a highway having at least four (4) lanes with not less than two (2) lanes proceeding in the same direction as the approaching vehicle; or (B) Proceeding with due caution, reduce the speed of the vehicle, maintaining a safe speed for road conditions, if changing lanes would be impossible or unsafe.
(A) Proceeding with due caution, yield the right-of-way by making a lane change into a lane not adjacent to the stationary recovery vehicle, highway maintenance vehicle, solid waste vehicle, or utility service vehicle if possible with due regard to safety and traffic conditions, if on a highway having at least four (4) lanes with not less than two (2) lanes proceeding in the same direction as the approaching vehicle; or
(B) Proceeding with due caution, reduce the speed of the vehicle, maintaining a safe speed for road conditions, if changing lanes would be impossible or unsafe.
(2) Upon approaching a stationary vehicle that is giving a signal by use of flashing hazard lights, a person who drives an approaching vehicle shall: (A) Proceeding with due caution, yield the right-of-way by making a lane change into a lane not adjacent to the stationary vehicle if possible with due regard to safety and traffic conditions, if on a highway having at least four (4) lanes with not less than two (2) lanes proceeding in the same direction as the approaching vehicle; or (B) Proceeding with due caution, reduce the speed of the vehicle, maintaining a safe speed for road conditions, if changing lanes would be impossible or unsafe.
(A) Proceeding with due caution, yield the right-of-way by making a lane change into a lane not adjacent to the stationary vehicle if possible with due regard to safety and traffic conditions, if on a highway having at least four (4) lanes with not less than two (2) lanes proceeding in the same direction as the approaching vehicle; or
(B) Proceeding with due caution, reduce the speed of the vehicle, maintaining a safe speed for road conditions, if changing lanes would be impossible or unsafe.
(d) For the purpose of this section unless the context otherwise requires: (1) "Highway maintenance vehicle" means a vehicle used for the maintenance of highways and roadways in this state and is: (A) Owned or operated by the department of transportation, a county, a municipality or other political subdivision of this state; or, (B) Owned or operated by a contractor under contract with the department of transportation, a county, a municipality or other political subdivision of this state; (2) "Recovery vehicle" means a truck that is specifically designed for towing a disabled vehicle or a combination of vehicles; and (3) "Utility" means any person, municipality, county, metropolitan government, electric cooperative, telephone cooperative, board, commission, district or any entity created or authorized by public act, private act, or general law to provide electricity, natural gas, water, waste water services, telephone services, or any combination thereof, for sale to consumers in any particular service area.
(1) "Highway maintenance vehicle" means a vehicle used for the maintenance of highways and roadways in this state and is: (A) Owned or operated by the department of transportation, a county, a municipality or other political subdivision of this state; or, (B) Owned or operated by a contractor under contract with the department of transportation, a county, a municipality or other political subdivision of this state;
(A) Owned or operated by the department of transportation, a county, a municipality or other political subdivision of this state; or,
(B) Owned or operated by a contractor under contract with the department of transportation, a county, a municipality or other political subdivision of this state;
(2) "Recovery vehicle" means a truck that is specifically designed for towing a disabled vehicle or a combination of vehicles; and
(3) "Utility" means any person, municipality, county, metropolitan government, electric cooperative, telephone cooperative, board, commission, district or any entity created or authorized by public act, private act, or general law to provide electricity, natural gas, water, waste water services, telephone services, or any combination thereof, for sale to consumers in any particular service area.
(e) (1) The first violation of this section is a Class B misdemeanor punishable by a fine of not less than two hundred fifty dollars ($250) nor more than five hundred dollars ($500), or imprisonment not longer than thirty (30) days, or both. (2) A second violation of this section is a Class B misdemeanor punishable by a fine of one thousand dollars ($1,000). (3) A third or subsequent violation of this section is a Class A misdemeanor punishable by a fine of two thousand five hundred dollars ($2,500).
(1) The first violation of this section is a Class B misdemeanor punishable by a fine of not less than two hundred fifty dollars ($250) nor more than five hundred dollars ($500), or imprisonment not longer than thirty (30) days, or both.
(2) A second violation of this section is a Class B misdemeanor punishable by a fine of one thousand dollars ($1,000).
(3) A third or subsequent violation of this section is a Class A misdemeanor punishable by a fine of two thousand five hundred dollars ($2,500).
(f) This section shall not operate to relieve the driver of a stationary motor vehicle, authorized emergency vehicle, recovery vehicle, solid waste vehicle, or highway maintenance vehicle from the duty to operate the vehicle with due regard for the safety of all persons using the highway.
(g) (1) A person violating this section may also be prosecuted and convicted for the offense of: (A) The Class E felony of criminally negligent homicide under § 39-13-212 , if the conduct giving rise to the violation of this section is criminally negligent, as defined in § 39-11-302(d) , and results in the death of another; (B) The Class D felony of reckless homicide under § 39-13-215 , if the conduct giving rise to the violation of this section is reckless, as defined in § 39-11-302 , and results in the killing of another; and (C) The Class C felony of vehicular homicide under § 39-13-213 , if the conduct giving rise to the violation of this section is reckless, as defined in § 39-11-302(c) , proximately results in the killing of another and the conduct created a substantial risk of death to another. (2) Nothing in subdivision (g)(1) shall be construed as precluding a person who violates this section from being prosecuted and convicted under any other applicable offense.
(1) A person violating this section may also be prosecuted and convicted for the offense of: (A) The Class E felony of criminally negligent homicide under § 39-13-212 , if the conduct giving rise to the violation of this section is criminally negligent, as defined in § 39-11-302(d) , and results in the death of another; (B) The Class D felony of reckless homicide under § 39-13-215 , if the conduct giving rise to the violation of this section is reckless, as defined in § 39-11-302 , and results in the killing of another; and (C) The Class C felony of vehicular homicide under § 39-13-213 , if the conduct giving rise to the violation of this section is reckless, as defined in § 39-11-302(c) , proximately results in the killing of another and the conduct created a substantial risk of death to another.
(A) The Class E felony of criminally negligent homicide under § 39-13-212 , if the conduct giving rise to the violation of this section is criminally negligent, as defined in § 39-11-302(d) , and results in the death of another;
(B) The Class D felony of reckless homicide under § 39-13-215 , if the conduct giving rise to the violation of this section is reckless, as defined in § 39-11-302 , and results in the killing of another; and
(C) The Class C felony of vehicular homicide under § 39-13-213 , if the conduct giving rise to the violation of this section is reckless, as defined in § 39-11-302(c) , proximately results in the killing of another and the conduct created a substantial risk of death to another.
(2) Nothing in subdivision (g)(1) shall be construed as precluding a person who violates this section from being prosecuted and convicted under any other applicable offense.
(h) Upon approaching a stationary motor vehicle that is located on the shoulder, emergency lane, or median and the vehicle is giving a signal by use of flashing lights, a person who drives an approaching vehicle shall: (1) Proceeding with due caution, yield the right-of-way by making a lane change into a lane not adjacent to that of the motor vehicle, if possible with due regard to safety and traffic conditions, if on a highway having at least four (4) lanes with not less than two (2) lanes proceeding in the same direction as the approaching vehicle; or (2) Proceeding with due caution, reduce the speed of the vehicle, maintaining a safe speed for road conditions, if changing lanes would be impossible or unsafe.
(1) Proceeding with due caution, yield the right-of-way by making a lane change into a lane not adjacent to that of the motor vehicle, if possible with due regard to safety and traffic conditions, if on a highway having at least four (4) lanes with not less than two (2) lanes proceeding in the same direction as the approaching vehicle; or
(2) Proceeding with due caution, reduce the speed of the vehicle, maintaining a safe speed for road conditions, if changing lanes would be impossible or unsafe.
Amended by 2023 Tenn. Acts, ch. 354, s 2, eff. 7/1/2023.
Amended by 2023 Tenn. Acts, ch. 354, s 1, eff. 7/1/2023.
Amended by 2017 Tenn. Acts, ch. 95, s 2, eff. 7/1/2017.
Amended by 2017 Tenn. Acts, ch. 95, s 1, eff. 7/1/2017.
Amended by 2015 Tenn. Acts, ch. 368, s 2, eff. 7/1/2015.
Amended by 2015 Tenn. Acts, ch. 368, s 1, eff. 7/1/2015.
Acts 1955, ch. 329, § 31; T.C.A., § 59-832; Acts 2003 , ch. 384, § 1; 2006, ch. 653, § 1; 2008 , ch. 869, §§ 1, 2; 2011 , ch. 40, §§ 1-3.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-50-409 — TN Code / Title 55 / Chapter 50 / Section 55-50-409
Notification of traffic violations - Furnishing driving record information
Status: in_force

(a) This section shall apply to the following types of convictions: (1) The conviction of any resident or nonresident holder of a commercial driver license of any violation of state law or local ordinance relating to motor vehicle traffic control, other than parking violations, in any vehicle; and (2) The conviction of any resident or nonresident holder of a non-commercial driver license of any violation of state law or local ordinance relating to motor vehicle traffic control, other than parking violations, in a commercial motor vehicle. (b) Within five (5) days after receiving a report of a conviction as defined by subsection (a), the department shall notify the driver licensing authority in the licensing state of the conviction, and the commercial driver license information system. (c) (1) Within five (5) days after the date of a conviction as defined by subsection (a), the clerk of the court of jurisdiction shall notify the department of the conviction. (2) The notice shall contain: (A) Driver's first name, middle name or middle initial, last name, and residence address; (B) Driver's date of birth; (C) Driver license number, class of license, and state of issuance; (D) A statement as to whether or not the license is a commercial driver license; (E) The license plate number, year, and state of issuance of the vehicle involved; (F) A statement as to whether or not the offense was committed in a commercial motor vehicle; (G) A statement as to whether or not the vehicle was transporting hazardous materials requiring placards; (H) A statement as to whether or not the vehicle could transport sixteen (16) or more passengers; (I) The date the offense occurred; (J) The offense the driver was charged with; (K) The date of the conviction; (L) The violation of which the person was convicted; (M) The plea, the judgment, or whether bail was forfeited; (N) The number of the offense (e.g., 1st offense, 2nd offense); (O) The blood alcohol level of the person, if convicted of a violation of § 39-13-106 , § 39-13-213 , § 55-10-401 or § 55-50-405 ; (P) The amount of any fine or costs assessed for the violation; (Q) Whether a driver education or improvement course was completed and the date of completion of the course, if eligible under § 55-10-301 ; (R) The name of the arresting agency; (S) The name of the county and court in which the conviction occurred; and (T) Whether or not there was in effect at the time of the violation an automobile liability policy or bond with respect to the operation of the motor vehicle involved. (d) Notwithstanding any other law in this state, the department shall furnish full information regarding the driving record of any person to: (1) The driver license administrator of any other state, or province or territory of Canada, requesting that information; (2) The commercial driver license information system; and (3) Any employer or prospective employer upon request and payment of a fee of five dollars ($5.00). 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 , 55-7-409; Acts 2010, ch. 1037, § 8.
(a) This section shall apply to the following types of convictions: (1) The conviction of any resident or nonresident holder of a commercial driver license of any violation of state law or local ordinance relating to motor vehicle traffic control, other than parking violations, in any vehicle; and (2) The conviction of any resident or nonresident holder of a non-commercial driver license of any violation of state law or local ordinance relating to motor vehicle traffic control, other than parking violations, in a commercial motor vehicle.
(1) The conviction of any resident or nonresident holder of a commercial driver license of any violation of state law or local ordinance relating to motor vehicle traffic control, other than parking violations, in any vehicle; and
(2) The conviction of any resident or nonresident holder of a non-commercial driver license of any violation of state law or local ordinance relating to motor vehicle traffic control, other than parking violations, in a commercial motor vehicle.
(b) Within five (5) days after receiving a report of a conviction as defined by subsection (a), the department shall notify the driver licensing authority in the licensing state of the conviction, and the commercial driver license information system.
(c) (1) Within five (5) days after the date of a conviction as defined by subsection (a), the clerk of the court of jurisdiction shall notify the department of the conviction. (2) The notice shall contain: (A) Driver's first name, middle name or middle initial, last name, and residence address; (B) Driver's date of birth; (C) Driver license number, class of license, and state of issuance; (D) A statement as to whether or not the license is a commercial driver license; (E) The license plate number, year, and state of issuance of the vehicle involved; (F) A statement as to whether or not the offense was committed in a commercial motor vehicle; (G) A statement as to whether or not the vehicle was transporting hazardous materials requiring placards; (H) A statement as to whether or not the vehicle could transport sixteen (16) or more passengers; (I) The date the offense occurred; (J) The offense the driver was charged with; (K) The date of the conviction; (L) The violation of which the person was convicted; (M) The plea, the judgment, or whether bail was forfeited; (N) The number of the offense (e.g., 1st offense, 2nd offense); (O) The blood alcohol level of the person, if convicted of a violation of § 39-13-106 , § 39-13-213 , § 55-10-401 or § 55-50-405 ; (P) The amount of any fine or costs assessed for the violation; (Q) Whether a driver education or improvement course was completed and the date of completion of the course, if eligible under § 55-10-301 ; (R) The name of the arresting agency; (S) The name of the county and court in which the conviction occurred; and (T) Whether or not there was in effect at the time of the violation an automobile liability policy or bond with respect to the operation of the motor vehicle involved.
(1) Within five (5) days after the date of a conviction as defined by subsection (a), the clerk of the court of jurisdiction shall notify the department of the conviction.
(2) The notice shall contain: (A) Driver's first name, middle name or middle initial, last name, and residence address; (B) Driver's date of birth; (C) Driver license number, class of license, and state of issuance; (D) A statement as to whether or not the license is a commercial driver license; (E) The license plate number, year, and state of issuance of the vehicle involved; (F) A statement as to whether or not the offense was committed in a commercial motor vehicle; (G) A statement as to whether or not the vehicle was transporting hazardous materials requiring placards; (H) A statement as to whether or not the vehicle could transport sixteen (16) or more passengers; (I) The date the offense occurred; (J) The offense the driver was charged with; (K) The date of the conviction; (L) The violation of which the person was convicted; (M) The plea, the judgment, or whether bail was forfeited; (N) The number of the offense (e.g., 1st offense, 2nd offense); (O) The blood alcohol level of the person, if convicted of a violation of § 39-13-106 , § 39-13-213 , § 55-10-401 or § 55-50-405 ; (P) The amount of any fine or costs assessed for the violation; (Q) Whether a driver education or improvement course was completed and the date of completion of the course, if eligible under § 55-10-301 ; (R) The name of the arresting agency; (S) The name of the county and court in which the conviction occurred; and (T) Whether or not there was in effect at the time of the violation an automobile liability policy or bond with respect to the operation of the motor vehicle involved.
(A) Driver's first name, middle name or middle initial, last name, and residence address;
(B) Driver's date of birth;
(C) Driver license number, class of license, and state of issuance;
(D) A statement as to whether or not the license is a commercial driver license;
(E) The license plate number, year, and state of issuance of the vehicle involved;
(F) A statement as to whether or not the offense was committed in a commercial motor vehicle;
(G) A statement as to whether or not the vehicle was transporting hazardous materials requiring placards;
(H) A statement as to whether or not the vehicle could transport sixteen (16) or more passengers;
(I) The date the offense occurred;
(J) The offense the driver was charged with;
(K) The date of the conviction;
(L) The violation of which the person was convicted;
(M) The plea, the judgment, or whether bail was forfeited;
(N) The number of the offense (e.g., 1st offense, 2nd offense);
(O) The blood alcohol level of the person, if convicted of a violation of § 39-13-106 , § 39-13-213 , § 55-10-401 or § 55-50-405 ;
(P) The amount of any fine or costs assessed for the violation;
(Q) Whether a driver education or improvement course was completed and the date of completion of the course, if eligible under § 55-10-301 ;
(R) The name of the arresting agency;
(S) The name of the county and court in which the conviction occurred; and
(T) Whether or not there was in effect at the time of the violation an automobile liability policy or bond with respect to the operation of the motor vehicle involved.
(d) Notwithstanding any other law in this state, the department shall furnish full information regarding the driving record of any person to: (1) The driver license administrator of any other state, or province or territory of Canada, requesting that information; (2) The commercial driver license information system; and (3) Any employer or prospective employer upon request and payment of a fee of five dollars ($5.00).
(1) The driver license administrator of any other state, or province or territory of Canada, requesting that information;
(2) The commercial driver license information system; and
(3) Any employer or prospective employer upon request and payment of a fee of five dollars ($5.00).
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 , 55-7-409; Acts 2010, ch. 1037, § 8.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-10-704 — TN Code / Title 55 / Chapter 10 / Section 55-10-704
Confiscation of offender's driver license
Status: in_force

At the time of a conviction or adjudication by the court, the court shall remove from the offender's possession any Tennessee driver license currently held by the offender and forward it to the driver control division. If the offender is the holder of a driver license from another jurisdiction, the court shall not collect the offender's driver license, but shall notify the division of the conviction or adjudication and the division shall notify the appropriate individuals in the licensing jurisdiction. The court shall, however, in accordance with this part, send to the division an order of denial of driving privileges in this state. Acts 1989, ch. 64, § 5.
At the time of a conviction or adjudication by the court, the court shall remove from the offender's possession any Tennessee driver license currently held by the offender and forward it to the driver control division. If the offender is the holder of a driver license from another jurisdiction, the court shall not collect the offender's driver license, but shall notify the division of the conviction or adjudication and the division shall notify the appropriate individuals in the licensing jurisdiction. The court shall, however, in accordance with this part, send to the division an order of denial of driving privileges in this state.
Acts 1989, ch. 64, § 5.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-18-102 — TN Code / Title 55 / Chapter 18 / Section 55-18-102
Chapter definitions
Status: in_force

As used in this chapter, unless the context otherwise requires: (1) "Automobile club service" is the rendering or procuring of, or reimbursement for, service that may be provided to a member related to travel and the operation, use and maintenance of a motor vehicle, including, but not limited to: (A) Bail bond service; (B) Buying and selling service; (C) Discount service; (D) Emergency road service; (E) Financial service; (F) Insurance service; (G) Legal service; (H) Map service; (I) Theft service; (J) Touring service; (K) Towing service; (L) Trip interruption service; and (M) Other services as may be authorized by the commissioner; (2) "Bail bond service" means any act by an automobile club or association the purpose of which is to furnish to, or procure for, any person accused of violation of any law of this state, a cash deposit, bond or other undertaking required by law in order that the accused might enjoy personal freedom pending trial; (3) "Buying and selling service" means any act by an automobile club or association whereby the member of any automobile club or association is aided in any way in the purchase or sale of an automobile or the purchase or sale of any accessories or equipment related to automobiles or travel, or any purchase of travel services; (4) "Commissioner" means the commissioner of commerce and insurance; (5) "Discount service" means any act by an automobile club or association resulting in the giving of special discounts, rebates or reductions of price on gasoline, oil, repairs, parts, accessories or service for motor vehicles or other goods and services, to members of any automobile club or association; (6) "Emergency road service" means any act by an automobile club or association consisting of the fuel delivery, extrication, lockout service, repair, replacement or other adjustment of the equipment, tires or mechanical parts of an automobile so as to permit it to be operated under its own power; (7) "Financial service" means any act by an automobile club or association whereby loans or other financial services such as stored value cards, deposit products, or advances of money, with or without security, are made or provided to or arranged for members of any automobile club association; (8) "Insurance service" means the selling or giving by an automobile club or association to a member of a policy of accident insurance covering liability or loss by a member as the result of death or personal injury or loss of or damage to the personal property of the member, or the selling of a hospital indemnity policy. The commissioner shall have the discretion to approve other services under this part if the feature, benefit or service is obtained by the automobile club or association from an insurance company in this state; (9) "Legal service" means any act by an automobile club or association consisting of the hiring, retaining, engaging or appointing of an attorney or other person to give professional advice to, or represent, a member of any automobile club or association, in any court, as the result of liability incurred by the right of action accruing to the member as a result of the ownership, operation, use or maintenance of a motor vehicle; (10) "Map service" means any act by an automobile club or association by which road maps are furnished with or without cost to members of any automobile club or association; (11) "Other services" means additional services furnished by an automobile club or association which augment or are incidental to any service performed by the automobile club or association as authorized under this chapter or any other service which is of assistance and is beneficial to its members and is feasible for the automobile club to render; provided, that such service is authorized by the commissioner; (12) "Theft service" means any act by an automobile club or association the purpose of which is to locate, identify or recover a motor vehicle owned or controlled by a member of any automobile club or association, which has been, or may be, stolen or to detect or apprehend the person guilty of the theft; (13) "Trip interruption service" means the provision of or reimbursement for travel expenses, including food, lodging, and transportation to the member's intended destination if the member's motor vehicle is stolen or is rendered inoperable due to an accident, theft, or mechanical breakdown; (14) "Touring service" includes any act by an automobile club or association by which touring information is furnished with or without cost to members of any automobile club or association or the making of arrangements or reservations for lodging or travel space, discounts for accommodations or vehicle rental, procurement of tickets or permits for travel to any place in the world for a member of any automobile club or association; and (15) "Towing service" means any act by an automobile club or association consisting of the drafting or moving of a motor vehicle from one (1) place to another under other than its own power. Acts 1957, ch. 157, § 2; 1971, ch. 211, § 1; modified; Acts 1972, ch. 582, § 1; Acts 1976, ch. 644, § 1; T.C.A., §59-1802; Acts 2010 , ch. 1038, § 4.
As used in this chapter, unless the context otherwise requires:
(1) "Automobile club service" is the rendering or procuring of, or reimbursement for, service that may be provided to a member related to travel and the operation, use and maintenance of a motor vehicle, including, but not limited to: (A) Bail bond service; (B) Buying and selling service; (C) Discount service; (D) Emergency road service; (E) Financial service; (F) Insurance service; (G) Legal service; (H) Map service; (I) Theft service; (J) Touring service; (K) Towing service; (L) Trip interruption service; and (M) Other services as may be authorized by the commissioner;
(A) Bail bond service;
(B) Buying and selling service;
(C) Discount service;
(D) Emergency road service;
(E) Financial service;
(F) Insurance service;
(G) Legal service;
(H) Map service;
(I) Theft service;
(J) Touring service;
(K) Towing service;
(L) Trip interruption service; and
(M) Other services as may be authorized by the commissioner;
(2) "Bail bond service" means any act by an automobile club or association the purpose of which is to furnish to, or procure for, any person accused of violation of any law of this state, a cash deposit, bond or other undertaking required by law in order that the accused might enjoy personal freedom pending trial;
(3) "Buying and selling service" means any act by an automobile club or association whereby the member of any automobile club or association is aided in any way in the purchase or sale of an automobile or the purchase or sale of any accessories or equipment related to automobiles or travel, or any purchase of travel services;
(4) "Commissioner" means the commissioner of commerce and insurance;
(5) "Discount service" means any act by an automobile club or association resulting in the giving of special discounts, rebates or reductions of price on gasoline, oil, repairs, parts, accessories or service for motor vehicles or other goods and services, to members of any automobile club or association;
(6) "Emergency road service" means any act by an automobile club or association consisting of the fuel delivery, extrication, lockout service, repair, replacement or other adjustment of the equipment, tires or mechanical parts of an automobile so as to permit it to be operated under its own power;
(7) "Financial service" means any act by an automobile club or association whereby loans or other financial services such as stored value cards, deposit products, or advances of money, with or without security, are made or provided to or arranged for members of any automobile club association;
(8) "Insurance service" means the selling or giving by an automobile club or association to a member of a policy of accident insurance covering liability or loss by a member as the result of death or personal injury or loss of or damage to the personal property of the member, or the selling of a hospital indemnity policy. The commissioner shall have the discretion to approve other services under this part if the feature, benefit or service is obtained by the automobile club or association from an insurance company in this state;
(9) "Legal service" means any act by an automobile club or association consisting of the hiring, retaining, engaging or appointing of an attorney or other person to give professional advice to, or represent, a member of any automobile club or association, in any court, as the result of liability incurred by the right of action accruing to the member as a result of the ownership, operation, use or maintenance of a motor vehicle;
(10) "Map service" means any act by an automobile club or association by which road maps are furnished with or without cost to members of any automobile club or association;
(11) "Other services" means additional services furnished by an automobile club or association which augment or are incidental to any service performed by the automobile club or association as authorized under this chapter or any other service which is of assistance and is beneficial to its members and is feasible for the automobile club to render; provided, that such service is authorized by the commissioner;
(12) "Theft service" means any act by an automobile club or association the purpose of which is to locate, identify or recover a motor vehicle owned or controlled by a member of any automobile club or association, which has been, or may be, stolen or to detect or apprehend the person guilty of the theft;
(13) "Trip interruption service" means the provision of or reimbursement for travel expenses, including food, lodging, and transportation to the member's intended destination if the member's motor vehicle is stolen or is rendered inoperable due to an accident, theft, or mechanical breakdown;
(14) "Touring service" includes any act by an automobile club or association by which touring information is furnished with or without cost to members of any automobile club or association or the making of arrangements or reservations for lodging or travel space, discounts for accommodations or vehicle rental, procurement of tickets or permits for travel to any place in the world for a member of any automobile club or association; and
(15) "Towing service" means any act by an automobile club or association consisting of the drafting or moving of a motor vehicle from one (1) place to another under other than its own power.
Acts 1957, ch. 157, § 2; 1971, ch. 211, § 1; modified; Acts 1972, ch. 582, § 1; Acts 1976, ch. 644, § 1; T.C.A., §59-1802; Acts 2010 , ch. 1038, § 4.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-50-354 — TN Code / Title 55 / Chapter 50 / Section 55-50-354
Language or symbol on driver license or photo identification card reflecting military service
Status: in_force

(a) When the department issues or renews a driver license or photo identification card to an honorably discharged veteran, the driver license or photo identification card shall have language or a symbol designed by the department of veterans services, in consultation with the department of safety, that appropriately reflects the driver's military service. The language or symbol shall be displayed prominently on the license. (b) Tennessee veterans who elect to have language or a symbol indicating their military service on their driver license at the time of renewal or reissue shall pay the required license or photo identification card fee, check a box on the application stating they are a veteran, and provide a certified copy of: (1) The applicant's certificate of release or discharge, department of defense form 214 (DD 214), showing dates of service and that the applicant received an honorable discharge; (2) The applicant's department of defense form DD form 2 (Retired) identification; (3) The applicant's AGO Form 53-55 or NAVPERS 553 showing the dates of service; or (4) The applicant's official NAVPERS-660 form, showing proof of honorable discharge. Amended by 2021 Tenn. Acts, ch. 247, s 1, eff. 4/28/2021. Amended by 2020 Tenn. Acts, ch. 519, s 1, eff. 7/1/2020. Amended by 2018 Tenn. Acts, ch. 677, s 1, eff. 4/12/2018. Acts 2011 , ch. 337, § 1.
(a) When the department issues or renews a driver license or photo identification card to an honorably discharged veteran, the driver license or photo identification card shall have language or a symbol designed by the department of veterans services, in consultation with the department of safety, that appropriately reflects the driver's military service. The language or symbol shall be displayed prominently on the license.
(b) Tennessee veterans who elect to have language or a symbol indicating their military service on their driver license at the time of renewal or reissue shall pay the required license or photo identification card fee, check a box on the application stating they are a veteran, and provide a certified copy of: (1) The applicant's certificate of release or discharge, department of defense form 214 (DD 214), showing dates of service and that the applicant received an honorable discharge; (2) The applicant's department of defense form DD form 2 (Retired) identification; (3) The applicant's AGO Form 53-55 or NAVPERS 553 showing the dates of service; or (4) The applicant's official NAVPERS-660 form, showing proof of honorable discharge.
(1) The applicant's certificate of release or discharge, department of defense form 214 (DD 214), showing dates of service and that the applicant received an honorable discharge;
(2) The applicant's department of defense form DD form 2 (Retired) identification;
(3) The applicant's AGO Form 53-55 or NAVPERS 553 showing the dates of service; or
(4) The applicant's official NAVPERS-660 form, showing proof of honorable discharge.
Amended by 2021 Tenn. Acts, ch. 247, s 1, eff. 4/28/2021.
Amended by 2020 Tenn. Acts, ch. 519, s 1, eff. 7/1/2020.
Amended by 2018 Tenn. Acts, ch. 677, s 1, eff. 4/12/2018.
Acts 2011 , ch. 337, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-50-313 — TN Code / Title 55 / Chapter 50 / Section 55-50-313
Motorcycle learner's permit for minors - Operation requirements
Status: in_force

Notwithstanding another law to the contrary, a minor who has been issued a motorcycle learner's permit and who has completed a certified motorcycle education course approved by the department may operate a motorcycle without limitations on the distance from the minor's home if the minor is accompanied by, and under the direct supervision of, a parent or legal guardian who is also operating a motorcycle and who holds a valid Class M license. Added by 2023 Tenn. Acts, ch. 180, s 1, eff. 1/1/2024.
Notwithstanding another law to the contrary, a minor who has been issued a motorcycle learner's permit and who has completed a certified motorcycle education course approved by the department may operate a motorcycle without limitations on the distance from the minor's home if the minor is accompanied by, and under the direct supervision of, a parent or legal guardian who is also operating a motorcycle and who holds a valid Class M license.
Added by 2023 Tenn. Acts, ch. 180, s 1, eff. 1/1/2024.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-27-102 — TN Code / Title 55 / Chapter 27 / Section 55-27-102
Funds held in trust by a dealer
Status: in_force

All funds received by a dealer in a transaction involving the purchase or trade-in, or both, of a motor vehicle intended by the parties to the transaction to be used to: (1) Satisfy obligations secured by a lien or other security interest in a motor vehicle or other tangible personal property taken by the dealer as a trade-in in partial or complete consideration for the purchase of a motor vehicle; (2) Pay to the taxing authorities the sales or use tax collected by the dealer on the sale of a motor vehicle; or (3) Pay the fees imposed for the transfer of title, registration and licensing of the vehicle; are trust funds held in trust by the dealer for the benefit of the purchaser and/or the holder of the obligations secured by the lien or other security interest and/or the taxing authorities and registration officials, as their respective interests may appear. Acts 2009 , ch. 322, § 2.
All funds received by a dealer in a transaction involving the purchase or trade-in, or both, of a motor vehicle intended by the parties to the transaction to be used to:
(1) Satisfy obligations secured by a lien or other security interest in a motor vehicle or other tangible personal property taken by the dealer as a trade-in in partial or complete consideration for the purchase of a motor vehicle;
(2) Pay to the taxing authorities the sales or use tax collected by the dealer on the sale of a motor vehicle; or
(3) Pay the fees imposed for the transfer of title, registration and licensing of the vehicle; are trust funds held in trust by the dealer for the benefit of the purchaser and/or the holder of the obligations secured by the lien or other security interest and/or the taxing authorities and registration officials, as their respective interests may appear.
are trust funds held in trust by the dealer for the benefit of the purchaser and/or the holder of the obligations secured by the lien or other security interest and/or the taxing authorities and registration officials, as their respective interests may appear.
Acts 2009 , ch. 322, § 2.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-4-322 — TN Code / Title 55 / Chapter 4 / Section 55-4-322
Firefighters and first responders
Status: in_force

(a) An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of Tennessee, and who is a certified member of the International Association of Firefighters, 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 International Association of Firefighters new specialty earmarked license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c) . (b) The application for an International Association of Firefighters new specialty earmarked plate must be accompanied by proof, satisfactory to the commissioner, certifying the applicant to be a member of the International Association of Firefighters. (c) The International Association of Firefighters new specialty earmarked license plate must contain the logo of the International Association of Firefighters. The plates must be designed in consultation with the executive director of the Tennessee chapter of the International Association of Firefighters. (d) Funds produced from the sale of International Association of Firefighters new specialty earmarked license plates must be allocated to the Tennessee Firefighters Emergency Relief Fund, in accordance with § 55-4-301 . (e) An International Association of Firefighters new specialty earmarked license plate does not convey any rights or privileges to the driver of a motor vehicle upon which the plates are displayed. A driver or passenger of a motor vehicle shall not engage in a firefighting or emergency services situation unless the person is otherwise authorized by law to perform those duties. (f) Subject to the requirements of § 55-4-202 , the commissioner is authorized and shall issue a license plate to an owner or lessee of a motorcycle who is otherwise eligible for an International Association of Firefighters new specialty earmarked license plate; provided, however, that the owner or lessee shall comply with the state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motorcycles and pay the regular fee applicable to motorcycles and the applicable fee specified in § 55-4-204 prior to the issuance of the plate. (g) For the purposes of § 55-4-202(g)(1) , all license plates authorized or issued pursuant to subsections (a) and (f) must be included jointly in any determinations for initial issuance and continuation of issuance. Added by 2023 Tenn. Acts, ch. 250, s 1, eff. 7/1/2023.
(a) An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of Tennessee, and who is a certified member of the International Association of Firefighters, 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 International Association of Firefighters new specialty earmarked license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c) .
(b) The application for an International Association of Firefighters new specialty earmarked plate must be accompanied by proof, satisfactory to the commissioner, certifying the applicant to be a member of the International Association of Firefighters.
(c) The International Association of Firefighters new specialty earmarked license plate must contain the logo of the International Association of Firefighters. The plates must be designed in consultation with the executive director of the Tennessee chapter of the International Association of Firefighters.
(d) Funds produced from the sale of International Association of Firefighters new specialty earmarked license plates must be allocated to the Tennessee Firefighters Emergency Relief Fund, in accordance with § 55-4-301 .
(e) An International Association of Firefighters new specialty earmarked license plate does not convey any rights or privileges to the driver of a motor vehicle upon which the plates are displayed. A driver or passenger of a motor vehicle shall not engage in a firefighting or emergency services situation unless the person is otherwise authorized by law to perform those duties.
(f) Subject to the requirements of § 55-4-202 , the commissioner is authorized and shall issue a license plate to an owner or lessee of a motorcycle who is otherwise eligible for an International Association of Firefighters new specialty earmarked license plate; provided, however, that the owner or lessee shall comply with the state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motorcycles and pay the regular fee applicable to motorcycles and the applicable fee specified in § 55-4-204 prior to the issuance of the plate.
(g) For the purposes of § 55-4-202(g)(1) , all license plates authorized or issued pursuant to subsections (a) and (f) must be included jointly in any determinations for initial issuance and continuation of issuance.
Added by 2023 Tenn. Acts, ch. 250, s 1, eff. 7/1/2023.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-4-339 — TN Code / Title 55 / Chapter 4 / Section 55-4-339
[Repealed]
Status: repealed

Repealed by 2023 Tenn. Acts, ch. 250, s 1, eff. 7/1/2023. Amended by 2018 Tenn. Acts, ch. 1023, s 49, eff. 7/1/2018. Acts 1999, ch. 416, § 2.
Repealed by 2023 Tenn. Acts, ch. 250, s 1, eff. 7/1/2023.
Amended by 2018 Tenn. Acts, ch. 1023, s 49, eff. 7/1/2018.
Acts 1999, ch. 416, § 2.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-4-323 — TN Code / Title 55 / Chapter 4 / Section 55-4-323
Fraternal and social organizations
Status: in_force

(a) (1) An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of Tennessee, 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 Masons new specialty earmarked license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c) . (2) The application for a Masons new specialty earmarked plate must be accompanied by proof, satisfactory to the commissioner, certifying that the applicant is a member, or the spouse of a member, of the Free and Accepted Masons. (3) The new specialty earmarked plates provided for in this subsection (a) must contain the logo of the Free and Accepted Masons. The plates must be designed in consultation with the Grand Lodge of the Free and Accepted Masons of the state of Tennessee. (4) (A) Subject to the requirements of § 55-4-202 , the commissioner is authorized and shall issue a registration plate to an owner or lessee of a motorcycle who is otherwise eligible for a Masons new specialty earmarked license plate; provided, however, that the owner or lessee shall comply with the state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motorcycles and shall pay the regular fee applicable to motorcycles and the applicable fee specified in § 55-4-204 prior to the issuance of the plate. (B) The motorcycle plates authorized by this subsection (a) must be substantially the same in design and configuration, allowing for variations due to size restrictions, as the regular Masons new specialty earmarked license plate authorized by subdivision (a)(1). (5) Funds produced from the sale of the Masons new specialty earmarked license plates must be allocated to the Masonic Widows' and Orphans' Home of Tennessee fund in accordance with § 55-4-301 . (6) Upon the death of the spouse who was entitled to receive the Masons new specialty earmarked license plate, the widow is entitled to receive a Masons new specialty earmarked license plate for a motor vehicle owned or leased by such widow, 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 . The application must be accompanied by a copy of the death certificate. (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 Prince Hall Affiliated Masonic Family new specialty earmarked license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c) . (2) The application for a Prince Hall Affiliated Masonic Family new specialty earmarked plate must be accompanied by proof, satisfactory to the commissioner, certifying that the applicant is a member, or the spouse of a member, of the Prince Hall Masons. (3) The new specialty earmarked license plates provided for in this subsection (b) must be designed in consultation with a representative of the Prince Hall Masons and contain a design distinctive to the Prince Hall Masons. (4) The funds produced from the sale of Prince Hall Affiliated Masonic Family new specialty earmarked license plates must be allocated to the Prince Hall Masons in accordance with § 55-4-301 . The funds must be used exclusively to support youth mentorship in this state by the Prince Hall Masons. (c) (1) An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state and who is certified as a member or alumna member of Kappa Delta Sorority, upon complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and the fee provided for in § 55-4-204 , must be issued a Kappa Delta Sorority new specialty earmarked license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c) . The application for this plate must be accompanied by proof satisfactory to the commissioner, certifying the applicant to be a member or alumna member of Kappa Delta Sorority, and include the member's initiating chapter name, initiating university name, and member number. (2) The new specialty earmarked license plates provided for in this subsection (c) must be designed in consultation with the executive director and director of communications of Kappa Delta Sorority and contain the colors, logos, and other emblem or design distinctive to Kappa Delta Sorority. (3) The funds produced from the sale of Kappa Delta Sorority new specialty earmarked license plates must be allocated to Kappa Delta Sorority National Headquarters in accordance with § 55-4-301 . The funds must be used exclusively in this state to support the organization's mission and operations, including professional and personal development programs, educational programming for collegiate chapters, the biennial national convention, recruitment and chapter extension efforts, marketing to potential new members, communications with current members, training of volunteers, technology advancements, operating fees, and the care and preservation of Kappa Delta Sorority archives. Amended by 2024 Tenn. Acts, ch. 804,s 7, 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 Tennessee, 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 Masons new specialty earmarked license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c) . (2) The application for a Masons new specialty earmarked plate must be accompanied by proof, satisfactory to the commissioner, certifying that the applicant is a member, or the spouse of a member, of the Free and Accepted Masons. (3) The new specialty earmarked plates provided for in this subsection (a) must contain the logo of the Free and Accepted Masons. The plates must be designed in consultation with the Grand Lodge of the Free and Accepted Masons of the state of Tennessee. (4) (A) Subject to the requirements of § 55-4-202 , the commissioner is authorized and shall issue a registration plate to an owner or lessee of a motorcycle who is otherwise eligible for a Masons new specialty earmarked license plate; provided, however, that the owner or lessee shall comply with the state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motorcycles and shall pay the regular fee applicable to motorcycles and the applicable fee specified in § 55-4-204 prior to the issuance of the plate. (B) The motorcycle plates authorized by this subsection (a) must be substantially the same in design and configuration, allowing for variations due to size restrictions, as the regular Masons new specialty earmarked license plate authorized by subdivision (a)(1). (5) Funds produced from the sale of the Masons new specialty earmarked license plates must be allocated to the Masonic Widows' and Orphans' Home of Tennessee fund in accordance with § 55-4-301 . (6) Upon the death of the spouse who was entitled to receive the Masons new specialty earmarked license plate, the widow is entitled to receive a Masons new specialty earmarked license plate for a motor vehicle owned or leased by such widow, 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 . The application must be accompanied by a copy of the death certificate.
(1) An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of Tennessee, 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 Masons new specialty earmarked license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c) .
(2) The application for a Masons new specialty earmarked plate must be accompanied by proof, satisfactory to the commissioner, certifying that the applicant is a member, or the spouse of a member, of the Free and Accepted Masons.
(3) The new specialty earmarked plates provided for in this subsection (a) must contain the logo of the Free and Accepted Masons. The plates must be designed in consultation with the Grand Lodge of the Free and Accepted Masons of the state of Tennessee.
(4) (A) Subject to the requirements of § 55-4-202 , the commissioner is authorized and shall issue a registration plate to an owner or lessee of a motorcycle who is otherwise eligible for a Masons new specialty earmarked license plate; provided, however, that the owner or lessee shall comply with the state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motorcycles and shall pay the regular fee applicable to motorcycles and the applicable fee specified in § 55-4-204 prior to the issuance of the plate. (B) The motorcycle plates authorized by this subsection (a) must be substantially the same in design and configuration, allowing for variations due to size restrictions, as the regular Masons new specialty earmarked license plate authorized by subdivision (a)(1).
(A) Subject to the requirements of § 55-4-202 , the commissioner is authorized and shall issue a registration plate to an owner or lessee of a motorcycle who is otherwise eligible for a Masons new specialty earmarked license plate; provided, however, that the owner or lessee shall comply with the state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motorcycles and shall pay the regular fee applicable to motorcycles and the applicable fee specified in § 55-4-204 prior to the issuance of the plate.
(B) The motorcycle plates authorized by this subsection (a) must be substantially the same in design and configuration, allowing for variations due to size restrictions, as the regular Masons new specialty earmarked license plate authorized by subdivision (a)(1).
(5) Funds produced from the sale of the Masons new specialty earmarked license plates must be allocated to the Masonic Widows' and Orphans' Home of Tennessee fund in accordance with § 55-4-301 .
(6) Upon the death of the spouse who was entitled to receive the Masons new specialty earmarked license plate, the widow is entitled to receive a Masons new specialty earmarked license plate for a motor vehicle owned or leased by such widow, 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 . The application must be accompanied by a copy of the death certificate.
(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 Prince Hall Affiliated Masonic Family new specialty earmarked license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c) . (2) The application for a Prince Hall Affiliated Masonic Family new specialty earmarked plate must be accompanied by proof, satisfactory to the commissioner, certifying that the applicant is a member, or the spouse of a member, of the Prince Hall Masons. (3) The new specialty earmarked license plates provided for in this subsection (b) must be designed in consultation with a representative of the Prince Hall Masons and contain a design distinctive to the Prince Hall Masons. (4) The funds produced from the sale of Prince Hall Affiliated Masonic Family new specialty earmarked license plates must be allocated to the Prince Hall Masons in accordance with § 55-4-301 . The funds must be used exclusively to support youth mentorship in this state by the Prince Hall Masons.
(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 Prince Hall Affiliated Masonic Family new specialty earmarked license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c) .
(2) The application for a Prince Hall Affiliated Masonic Family new specialty earmarked plate must be accompanied by proof, satisfactory to the commissioner, certifying that the applicant is a member, or the spouse of a member, of the Prince Hall Masons.
(3) The new specialty earmarked license plates provided for in this subsection (b) must be designed in consultation with a representative of the Prince Hall Masons and contain a design distinctive to the Prince Hall Masons.
(4) The funds produced from the sale of Prince Hall Affiliated Masonic Family new specialty earmarked license plates must be allocated to the Prince Hall Masons in accordance with § 55-4-301 . The funds must be used exclusively to support youth mentorship in this state by the Prince Hall Masons.
(c) (1) An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state and who is certified as a member or alumna member of Kappa Delta Sorority, upon complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and the fee provided for in § 55-4-204 , must be issued a Kappa Delta Sorority new specialty earmarked license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c) . The application for this plate must be accompanied by proof satisfactory to the commissioner, certifying the applicant to be a member or alumna member of Kappa Delta Sorority, and include the member's initiating chapter name, initiating university name, and member number. (2) The new specialty earmarked license plates provided for in this subsection (c) must be designed in consultation with the executive director and director of communications of Kappa Delta Sorority and contain the colors, logos, and other emblem or design distinctive to Kappa Delta Sorority. (3) The funds produced from the sale of Kappa Delta Sorority new specialty earmarked license plates must be allocated to Kappa Delta Sorority National Headquarters in accordance with § 55-4-301 . The funds must be used exclusively in this state to support the organization's mission and operations, including professional and personal development programs, educational programming for collegiate chapters, the biennial national convention, recruitment and chapter extension efforts, marketing to potential new members, communications with current members, training of volunteers, technology advancements, operating fees, and the care and preservation of Kappa Delta Sorority archives.
(1) An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state and who is certified as a member or alumna member of Kappa Delta Sorority, upon complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and the fee provided for in § 55-4-204 , must be issued a Kappa Delta Sorority new specialty earmarked license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c) . The application for this plate must be accompanied by proof satisfactory to the commissioner, certifying the applicant to be a member or alumna member of Kappa Delta Sorority, and include the member's initiating chapter name, initiating university name, and member number.
(2) The new specialty earmarked license plates provided for in this subsection (c) must be designed in consultation with the executive director and director of communications of Kappa Delta Sorority and contain the colors, logos, and other emblem or design distinctive to Kappa Delta Sorority.
(3) The funds produced from the sale of Kappa Delta Sorority new specialty earmarked license plates must be allocated to Kappa Delta Sorority National Headquarters in accordance with § 55-4-301 . The funds must be used exclusively in this state to support the organization's mission and operations, including professional and personal development programs, educational programming for collegiate chapters, the biennial national convention, recruitment and chapter extension efforts, marketing to potential new members, communications with current members, training of volunteers, technology advancements, operating fees, and the care and preservation of Kappa Delta Sorority archives.
Amended by 2024 Tenn. Acts, ch. 804,s 7, eff. 7/1/2024.
Added by 2023 Tenn. Acts, ch. 250, s 1, eff. 7/1/2023.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-10-208 — TN Code / Title 55 / Chapter 10 / Section 55-10-208
Uniform traffic citation form
Status: in_force

(a) Every law enforcement officer in this state who is authorized to issue traffic citations may use a uniform traffic citation form prescribed by the department of safety. (b) The department is authorized and directed to promulgate a uniform traffic citation form which may be used exclusively by all law enforcement officers and agencies in this state in issuing citations for traffic law violations. Acts 1993, ch. 337, § 1; 1994, ch. 927, §§ 1, 2.
(a) Every law enforcement officer in this state who is authorized to issue traffic citations may use a uniform traffic citation form prescribed by the department of safety.
(b) The department is authorized and directed to promulgate a uniform traffic citation form which may be used exclusively by all law enforcement officers and agencies in this state in issuing citations for traffic law violations.
Acts 1993, ch. 337, § 1; 1994, ch. 927, §§ 1, 2.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-4-208 — TN Code / Title 55 / Chapter 4 / Section 55-4-208
Reimbursement of cost
Status: in_force

The cost of any registration plate that is provided without cost to an individual on account of employment, membership, or participation in any agency, department, organization, or governmental entity shall be reimbursed to the department by the agency, department, organization, or governmental entity of which the person is an employee, member, or participant. Amended by 2018 Tenn. Acts, ch. 1023,s 49, eff. 7/1/2018. Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1.
The cost of any registration plate that is provided without cost to an individual on account of employment, membership, or participation in any agency, department, organization, or governmental entity shall be reimbursed to the department by the agency, department, organization, or governmental entity of which the person is an employee, member, or participant.
Amended by 2018 Tenn. Acts, ch. 1023,s 49, eff. 7/1/2018.
Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-3-108 — TN Code / Title 55 / Chapter 3 / Section 55-3-108
False indication of payment of sales or use tax prohibited
Status: in_force

It is unlawful for any person to alter or to indicate on any bill of sale or any other documents that a sales or use tax has been paid when the tax has in fact not been paid. Acts 1953, ch. 103, § 4 (Williams, § 5538.139d); T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 59-308.
It is unlawful for any person to alter or to indicate on any bill of sale or any other documents that a sales or use tax has been paid when the tax has in fact not been paid.
Acts 1953, ch. 103, § 4 (Williams, § 5538.139d); T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 59-308.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-4-119 — TN Code / Title 55 / Chapter 4 / Section 55-4-119
Transfer by operation of law
Status: in_force

(a) Upon any transfer of title or interest of an owner in or to a registered vehicle to another otherwise than by voluntary transfer, the new owner may secure a new registration and certificate of title upon the payment of all proper fees by any one (1) of the following methods: (1) By proper application and upon presentation of either the last certificate of title, or a bill of sale properly endorsed by the former owner and duly assigned to the new owner, as provided in §§ 55-3-118 and 55-4-101 ; (2) Where the motor vehicle has been advertised and sold under any conditional sales contract, or other lien which shall be noted on the then outstanding certificate of title without the necessity of judicial proceedings, a new certificate of title and registration may be obtained by the new owner upon an application therefor regularly filed, accompanied by an affidavit made by the lienor, stating that the motor vehicle has been repossessed and sold under and by virtue of the terms of the lien and the law applicable thereto, together with the outstanding certificate of title, if available, and any other additional information as may be reasonably required by the commissioner; (3) Where the motor vehicle has been sold under and by virtue of an order of any court, or by virtue of an execution duly issued by any court or its clerk, the new owner will be entitled to a certificate of title and registration thereof upon an application therefor, being duly filed together with a certified copy of the court order or execution, showing the return thereon, an affidavit of the person who shall actually sell the motor vehicle by virtue of the court order or execution that the sale has been conducted in a legal and proper manner and in accordance with the terms of the lien contract, and if sold under a lien, noted on the certificate of title, together with the certificate of title, if available, and such other information as may be reasonably required by the commissioner; or (4) By any other means as may be provided for by the reasonable rules and regulations of the commissioner. (b) No title transferred by virtue of any of the means set out in subsection (a) shall pass better or greater title to the purchaser than could have been conveyed and assigned by the certificated title holder when joined in the transfer or assignment by the lienor at whose instance the motor vehicle is being sold, if being sold for the satisfaction of a lien noted on the certificate of title, to an innocent purchaser for value. (c) Where the holder or owner of a conditional sales contract has possession of the then outstanding certificate of title and becomes the purchaser of the motor vehicle at such sale and holds the vehicle for resale and operates the same under special plates as may be issued under § 55-4-226 , to dealers for purposes of demonstrating or selling the vehicle, the purchaser at the sale shall not be required to obtain a new registration of the vehicle or be required to obtain a new certificate of title, but upon transferring interest or title to another person shall execute an affidavit stating that the motor vehicle has been repossessed and sold under and by virtue of the terms of the conditional sales contract and the law applicable to the conditional sales contract and that this person became the purchaser of the motor vehicle, and the affidavit and the then outstanding certificate of title shall be delivered to the person as the new owner, and the new owner may secure a new registration and certificate of title. (d) Where no certificate of title has been issued by the state or by any other state in connection with any such motor vehicle as may be sold or otherwise disposed of as provided in subdivision (a)(2), and where the lienor is a financial institution authorized to do business in the state and subject to supervision by the commissioner of commerce and insurance, the commissioner of financial institutions, or the comptroller of the currency of the United States, then the commissioner shall accept, in lieu of a certificate of title and in lieu of the affidavit specified in subdivision (a)(2), the following: (1) An affidavit made by the lienor setting forth: (A) The name and last known address of the former owner; (B) That no certificate of title has been issued in connection with the motor vehicle, to the best of lienor's information and belief; (C) That the lien instrument held by lienor evidences a valid and enforceable lien in the lienor's favor; (D) That the motor vehicle was repossessed and sold under and by virtue of the terms of the lien and the law applicable thereto; (E) The balance owing which is secured by the lien; and (F) The exhibit of a true copy of the lien instrument, together with any assignment thereof if applicable; and (2) A bond executed by the lienor, without sureties, in a penal sum equal to the value of the motor vehicle, payable to the state of Tennessee, and conditioned to hold the state harmless from any liability or damages which might arise in connection with the issuance of a new registration and certificate of title. For purposes of this subdivision (d)(2), it shall be presumed, in the absence of a contrary showing, that the value of the motor vehicle is equal to the balance owing which is secured by the lien instrument. Where the affidavit and bond specified in this subdivision (d)(2) are filed by a lienor, that lienor shall pay to the department, in addition to all other fees which may be required, a fee of five dollars ($5.00). Acts 1951, ch. 70, § 51 (Williams, § 5538.151); Acts 1955, ch. 342, § 1; 1967, ch. 392, § 1; impl. am. Acts 1971, ch. 137, § 2; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 59-434; Acts 2007, ch. 484, § 38.
(a) Upon any transfer of title or interest of an owner in or to a registered vehicle to another otherwise than by voluntary transfer, the new owner may secure a new registration and certificate of title upon the payment of all proper fees by any one (1) of the following methods: (1) By proper application and upon presentation of either the last certificate of title, or a bill of sale properly endorsed by the former owner and duly assigned to the new owner, as provided in §§ 55-3-118 and 55-4-101 ; (2) Where the motor vehicle has been advertised and sold under any conditional sales contract, or other lien which shall be noted on the then outstanding certificate of title without the necessity of judicial proceedings, a new certificate of title and registration may be obtained by the new owner upon an application therefor regularly filed, accompanied by an affidavit made by the lienor, stating that the motor vehicle has been repossessed and sold under and by virtue of the terms of the lien and the law applicable thereto, together with the outstanding certificate of title, if available, and any other additional information as may be reasonably required by the commissioner; (3) Where the motor vehicle has been sold under and by virtue of an order of any court, or by virtue of an execution duly issued by any court or its clerk, the new owner will be entitled to a certificate of title and registration thereof upon an application therefor, being duly filed together with a certified copy of the court order or execution, showing the return thereon, an affidavit of the person who shall actually sell the motor vehicle by virtue of the court order or execution that the sale has been conducted in a legal and proper manner and in accordance with the terms of the lien contract, and if sold under a lien, noted on the certificate of title, together with the certificate of title, if available, and such other information as may be reasonably required by the commissioner; or (4) By any other means as may be provided for by the reasonable rules and regulations of the commissioner.
(1) By proper application and upon presentation of either the last certificate of title, or a bill of sale properly endorsed by the former owner and duly assigned to the new owner, as provided in §§ 55-3-118 and 55-4-101 ;
(2) Where the motor vehicle has been advertised and sold under any conditional sales contract, or other lien which shall be noted on the then outstanding certificate of title without the necessity of judicial proceedings, a new certificate of title and registration may be obtained by the new owner upon an application therefor regularly filed, accompanied by an affidavit made by the lienor, stating that the motor vehicle has been repossessed and sold under and by virtue of the terms of the lien and the law applicable thereto, together with the outstanding certificate of title, if available, and any other additional information as may be reasonably required by the commissioner;
(3) Where the motor vehicle has been sold under and by virtue of an order of any court, or by virtue of an execution duly issued by any court or its clerk, the new owner will be entitled to a certificate of title and registration thereof upon an application therefor, being duly filed together with a certified copy of the court order or execution, showing the return thereon, an affidavit of the person who shall actually sell the motor vehicle by virtue of the court order or execution that the sale has been conducted in a legal and proper manner and in accordance with the terms of the lien contract, and if sold under a lien, noted on the certificate of title, together with the certificate of title, if available, and such other information as may be reasonably required by the commissioner; or
(4) By any other means as may be provided for by the reasonable rules and regulations of the commissioner.
(b) No title transferred by virtue of any of the means set out in subsection (a) shall pass better or greater title to the purchaser than could have been conveyed and assigned by the certificated title holder when joined in the transfer or assignment by the lienor at whose instance the motor vehicle is being sold, if being sold for the satisfaction of a lien noted on the certificate of title, to an innocent purchaser for value.
(c) Where the holder or owner of a conditional sales contract has possession of the then outstanding certificate of title and becomes the purchaser of the motor vehicle at such sale and holds the vehicle for resale and operates the same under special plates as may be issued under § 55-4-226 , to dealers for purposes of demonstrating or selling the vehicle, the purchaser at the sale shall not be required to obtain a new registration of the vehicle or be required to obtain a new certificate of title, but upon transferring interest or title to another person shall execute an affidavit stating that the motor vehicle has been repossessed and sold under and by virtue of the terms of the conditional sales contract and the law applicable to the conditional sales contract and that this person became the purchaser of the motor vehicle, and the affidavit and the then outstanding certificate of title shall be delivered to the person as the new owner, and the new owner may secure a new registration and certificate of title.
(d) Where no certificate of title has been issued by the state or by any other state in connection with any such motor vehicle as may be sold or otherwise disposed of as provided in subdivision (a)(2), and where the lienor is a financial institution authorized to do business in the state and subject to supervision by the commissioner of commerce and insurance, the commissioner of financial institutions, or the comptroller of the currency of the United States, then the commissioner shall accept, in lieu of a certificate of title and in lieu of the affidavit specified in subdivision (a)(2), the following: (1) An affidavit made by the lienor setting forth: (A) The name and last known address of the former owner; (B) That no certificate of title has been issued in connection with the motor vehicle, to the best of lienor's information and belief; (C) That the lien instrument held by lienor evidences a valid and enforceable lien in the lienor's favor; (D) That the motor vehicle was repossessed and sold under and by virtue of the terms of the lien and the law applicable thereto; (E) The balance owing which is secured by the lien; and (F) The exhibit of a true copy of the lien instrument, together with any assignment thereof if applicable; and (2) A bond executed by the lienor, without sureties, in a penal sum equal to the value of the motor vehicle, payable to the state of Tennessee, and conditioned to hold the state harmless from any liability or damages which might arise in connection with the issuance of a new registration and certificate of title. For purposes of this subdivision (d)(2), it shall be presumed, in the absence of a contrary showing, that the value of the motor vehicle is equal to the balance owing which is secured by the lien instrument. Where the affidavit and bond specified in this subdivision (d)(2) are filed by a lienor, that lienor shall pay to the department, in addition to all other fees which may be required, a fee of five dollars ($5.00).
(1) An affidavit made by the lienor setting forth: (A) The name and last known address of the former owner; (B) That no certificate of title has been issued in connection with the motor vehicle, to the best of lienor's information and belief; (C) That the lien instrument held by lienor evidences a valid and enforceable lien in the lienor's favor; (D) That the motor vehicle was repossessed and sold under and by virtue of the terms of the lien and the law applicable thereto; (E) The balance owing which is secured by the lien; and (F) The exhibit of a true copy of the lien instrument, together with any assignment thereof if applicable; and
(A) The name and last known address of the former owner;
(B) That no certificate of title has been issued in connection with the motor vehicle, to the best of lienor's information and belief;
(C) That the lien instrument held by lienor evidences a valid and enforceable lien in the lienor's favor;
(D) That the motor vehicle was repossessed and sold under and by virtue of the terms of the lien and the law applicable thereto;
(E) The balance owing which is secured by the lien; and
(F) The exhibit of a true copy of the lien instrument, together with any assignment thereof if applicable; and
(2) A bond executed by the lienor, without sureties, in a penal sum equal to the value of the motor vehicle, payable to the state of Tennessee, and conditioned to hold the state harmless from any liability or damages which might arise in connection with the issuance of a new registration and certificate of title. For purposes of this subdivision (d)(2), it shall be presumed, in the absence of a contrary showing, that the value of the motor vehicle is equal to the balance owing which is secured by the lien instrument. Where the affidavit and bond specified in this subdivision (d)(2) are filed by a lienor, that lienor shall pay to the department, in addition to all other fees which may be required, a fee of five dollars ($5.00).
Acts 1951, ch. 70, § 51 (Williams, § 5538.151); Acts 1955, ch. 342, § 1; 1967, ch. 392, § 1; impl. am. Acts 1971, ch. 137, § 2; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 59-434; Acts 2007, ch. 484, § 38.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-10-308 — TN Code / Title 55 / Chapter 10 / Section 55-10-308
Enforcement within municipalities - Suspension of authorization
Status: in_force

(a) For purposes of this section: (1) "Interstate highway" means a portion of any highway designated and known as part of the national system of interstate and defense highways; and (2) "Marked law enforcement vehicle" means a law enforcement vehicle equipped with: (A) At least one (1) light bar assembly designed to display more than one (1) steady burning, flashing, or revolving beam of light with three hundred sixty degrees (360°) visibility; (B) A horn, siren, electronic device, or exhaust whistle from which audible signals may sound; and (C) Graphics, markings, or decals clearly identifying the agency or department on at least three (3) of the following four (4) sides: (i) Front; (ii) Rear; (iii) Left side; or (iv) Right side. (b) Where chapter 8 of this title and §§ 55-10-101 - 55-10-310 apply to territory within the limits of a municipality, the primary responsibility for enforcing the sections shall be on the municipality which shall be further authorized to enforce the additional ordinances for the regulation of the operation of vehicles as it deems proper. (c) Notwithstanding subsection (b), any municipality having a population of at least two thousand five hundred (2,500) and no more than ten thousand (10,000), according to the 2010 federal census or any subsequent federal census, with at least one (1) entrance ramp to and at least one (1) exit ramp from an interstate highway within the limits of such municipality, or any municipality having a population of less than two thousand five hundred (2,500), according to the 2010 federal census or any subsequent federal census, with at least two (2) entrance ramps to and at least two (2) exit ramps from an interstate highway within the limits of such municipality, may regulate enforcement of chapter 8 of this title and §§ 55-10-101 - 55-10-310, on the portions of any interstate highway lying within the territorial limits of the municipalities exercise if: (1) The local legislative body of the municipality authorizes such enforcement of the rules of the road; (2) Any ordinance or resolution authorizing the enforcement of rules of the road is submitted to the commissioner of safety; and (3) The municipality enforces the rules of the road in full compliance with the rules promulgated by the commissioner of safety; provided, that this restriction shall not apply to drug interdiction officers employed by the municipality while the officers are actively serving with any judicial district drug force. (d) Any municipal law enforcement agency enforcing rules of the road on interstate highways pursuant to subsection (c) shall use only marked law enforcement vehicles. Graphics, markings, or decals that are transparent, translucent, or create a holographic effect do not clearly identify the agency or department for purposes of this subsection (d). (e) (1) The commissioner may refuse to issue or may suspend for up to three (3) years the authorization of a municipality, having a population of ten thousand (10,000) or less, according to the 2010 federal census or any subsequent federal census, to enforce the rules of the road on the interstate highways, if the commissioner determines that the municipality is not complying with the requirements set forth in this section or the rules promulgated by the department. (2) Suspension of authorization shall be made in writing and sent by certified mail, return receipt requested, to both the chief law enforcement officer and the mayor of the municipality no less than thirty (30) days prior to the effective date of the suspension of authority. (3) The municipal law enforcement agency shall have twenty (20) days from receipt of the suspension notice to provide proof to the department that the municipal law enforcement agency is complying with the rules promulgated by the department. Timely submission of proof to the department shall stay a suspension until the department makes a determination regarding the suspension of authority of the municipality to enforce the rules of the road on the interstate highways. (4) If the proof submitted pursuant to subdivision (e)(3) is acceptable to the department, the commissioner shall inform in writing the chief law enforcement officer and mayor that the suspension is being rescinded. (5) If the proof submitted pursuant to subdivision (e)(3) is not acceptable to the department, the commissioner shall inform the chief law enforcement officer and the mayor and the suspension of authorization shall be reinstituted. (f) No municipality having a population of ten thousand (10,000) or less, according to the 2010 federal census or any subsequent federal census, and with at least two (2) entrance ramps to and at least two (2) exit ramps from an interstate highway shall be authorized to enforce chapter 8 of this title and §§ 55-10-101 - 55-10-310 when the contiguous stretch of the interstate highway between such entrance and exit ramps does not lie solely within the territorial limits of the municipality. Amended by 2014 Tenn. Acts, ch. 674,s 1, eff. 7/1/2014. Amended by 2013 Tenn. Acts, ch. 90,s 1, eff. 7/1/2013. Acts 1955, ch. 329, § 111A; T.C.A., § 59-1029; Acts 2004, ch. 914, § 5; 2005, ch. 506, § 28; 2010, ch. 966, § 2.
(a) For purposes of this section: (1) "Interstate highway" means a portion of any highway designated and known as part of the national system of interstate and defense highways; and (2) "Marked law enforcement vehicle" means a law enforcement vehicle equipped with: (A) At least one (1) light bar assembly designed to display more than one (1) steady burning, flashing, or revolving beam of light with three hundred sixty degrees (360°) visibility; (B) A horn, siren, electronic device, or exhaust whistle from which audible signals may sound; and (C) Graphics, markings, or decals clearly identifying the agency or department on at least three (3) of the following four (4) sides: (i) Front; (ii) Rear; (iii) Left side; or (iv) Right side.
(1) "Interstate highway" means a portion of any highway designated and known as part of the national system of interstate and defense highways; and
(2) "Marked law enforcement vehicle" means a law enforcement vehicle equipped with: (A) At least one (1) light bar assembly designed to display more than one (1) steady burning, flashing, or revolving beam of light with three hundred sixty degrees (360°) visibility; (B) A horn, siren, electronic device, or exhaust whistle from which audible signals may sound; and (C) Graphics, markings, or decals clearly identifying the agency or department on at least three (3) of the following four (4) sides: (i) Front; (ii) Rear; (iii) Left side; or (iv) Right side.
(A) At least one (1) light bar assembly designed to display more than one (1) steady burning, flashing, or revolving beam of light with three hundred sixty degrees (360°) visibility;
(B) A horn, siren, electronic device, or exhaust whistle from which audible signals may sound; and
(C) Graphics, markings, or decals clearly identifying the agency or department on at least three (3) of the following four (4) sides: (i) Front; (ii) Rear; (iii) Left side; or (iv) Right side.
(i) Front;
(ii) Rear;
(iii) Left side; or
(iv) Right side.
(b) Where chapter 8 of this title and §§ 55-10-101 - 55-10-310 apply to territory within the limits of a municipality, the primary responsibility for enforcing the sections shall be on the municipality which shall be further authorized to enforce the additional ordinances for the regulation of the operation of vehicles as it deems proper.
(c) Notwithstanding subsection (b), any municipality having a population of at least two thousand five hundred (2,500) and no more than ten thousand (10,000), according to the 2010 federal census or any subsequent federal census, with at least one (1) entrance ramp to and at least one (1) exit ramp from an interstate highway within the limits of such municipality, or any municipality having a population of less than two thousand five hundred (2,500), according to the 2010 federal census or any subsequent federal census, with at least two (2) entrance ramps to and at least two (2) exit ramps from an interstate highway within the limits of such municipality, may regulate enforcement of chapter 8 of this title and §§ 55-10-101 - 55-10-310, on the portions of any interstate highway lying within the territorial limits of the municipalities exercise if: (1) The local legislative body of the municipality authorizes such enforcement of the rules of the road; (2) Any ordinance or resolution authorizing the enforcement of rules of the road is submitted to the commissioner of safety; and (3) The municipality enforces the rules of the road in full compliance with the rules promulgated by the commissioner of safety; provided, that this restriction shall not apply to drug interdiction officers employed by the municipality while the officers are actively serving with any judicial district drug force.
(1) The local legislative body of the municipality authorizes such enforcement of the rules of the road;
(2) Any ordinance or resolution authorizing the enforcement of rules of the road is submitted to the commissioner of safety; and
(3) The municipality enforces the rules of the road in full compliance with the rules promulgated by the commissioner of safety; provided, that this restriction shall not apply to drug interdiction officers employed by the municipality while the officers are actively serving with any judicial district drug force.
(d) Any municipal law enforcement agency enforcing rules of the road on interstate highways pursuant to subsection (c) shall use only marked law enforcement vehicles. Graphics, markings, or decals that are transparent, translucent, or create a holographic effect do not clearly identify the agency or department for purposes of this subsection (d).
(e) (1) The commissioner may refuse to issue or may suspend for up to three (3) years the authorization of a municipality, having a population of ten thousand (10,000) or less, according to the 2010 federal census or any subsequent federal census, to enforce the rules of the road on the interstate highways, if the commissioner determines that the municipality is not complying with the requirements set forth in this section or the rules promulgated by the department. (2) Suspension of authorization shall be made in writing and sent by certified mail, return receipt requested, to both the chief law enforcement officer and the mayor of the municipality no less than thirty (30) days prior to the effective date of the suspension of authority. (3) The municipal law enforcement agency shall have twenty (20) days from receipt of the suspension notice to provide proof to the department that the municipal law enforcement agency is complying with the rules promulgated by the department. Timely submission of proof to the department shall stay a suspension until the department makes a determination regarding the suspension of authority of the municipality to enforce the rules of the road on the interstate highways. (4) If the proof submitted pursuant to subdivision (e)(3) is acceptable to the department, the commissioner shall inform in writing the chief law enforcement officer and mayor that the suspension is being rescinded. (5) If the proof submitted pursuant to subdivision (e)(3) is not acceptable to the department, the commissioner shall inform the chief law enforcement officer and the mayor and the suspension of authorization shall be reinstituted.
(1) The commissioner may refuse to issue or may suspend for up to three (3) years the authorization of a municipality, having a population of ten thousand (10,000) or less, according to the 2010 federal census or any subsequent federal census, to enforce the rules of the road on the interstate highways, if the commissioner determines that the municipality is not complying with the requirements set forth in this section or the rules promulgated by the department.
(2) Suspension of authorization shall be made in writing and sent by certified mail, return receipt requested, to both the chief law enforcement officer and the mayor of the municipality no less than thirty (30) days prior to the effective date of the suspension of authority.
(3) The municipal law enforcement agency shall have twenty (20) days from receipt of the suspension notice to provide proof to the department that the municipal law enforcement agency is complying with the rules promulgated by the department. Timely submission of proof to the department shall stay a suspension until the department makes a determination regarding the suspension of authority of the municipality to enforce the rules of the road on the interstate highways.
(4) If the proof submitted pursuant to subdivision (e)(3) is acceptable to the department, the commissioner shall inform in writing the chief law enforcement officer and mayor that the suspension is being rescinded.
(5) If the proof submitted pursuant to subdivision (e)(3) is not acceptable to the department, the commissioner shall inform the chief law enforcement officer and the mayor and the suspension of authorization shall be reinstituted.
(f) No municipality having a population of ten thousand (10,000) or less, according to the 2010 federal census or any subsequent federal census, and with at least two (2) entrance ramps to and at least two (2) exit ramps from an interstate highway shall be authorized to enforce chapter 8 of this title and §§ 55-10-101 - 55-10-310 when the contiguous stretch of the interstate highway between such entrance and exit ramps does not lie solely within the territorial limits of the municipality.
Amended by 2014 Tenn. Acts, ch. 674,s 1, eff. 7/1/2014.
Amended by 2013 Tenn. Acts, ch. 90,s 1, eff. 7/1/2013.
Acts 1955, ch. 329, § 111A; T.C.A., § 59-1029; Acts 2004, ch. 914, § 5; 2005, ch. 506, § 28; 2010, ch. 966, § 2.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-4-380 — TN Code / Title 55 / Chapter 4 / Section 55-4-380
[Repealed]
Status: repealed

Repealed by 2023 Tenn. Acts, ch. 250, s 1, eff. 7/1/2023. Amended by 2021 Tenn. Acts, ch. 579, s 35, eff. 7/1/2021.
Repealed by 2023 Tenn. Acts, ch. 250, s 1, eff. 7/1/2023.
Amended by 2021 Tenn. Acts, ch. 579, s 35, eff. 7/1/2021.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-10-408 — TN Code / Title 55 / Chapter 10 / Section 55-10-408
Tests for alcohol or drug content of blood - Procurement and processing of samples - Results - Additional testing
Status: in_force

(a) The procurement of a sample of a person's blood for the purpose of conducting a test to determine the alcohol content, drug content, or both, of the blood shall be considered valid if the sample was collected by a person qualified to do so, as listed in § 55-10-406(e)(2) , or a person acting at the direction of a medical examiner or other physician holding an unlimited license to practice medicine in Tennessee under procedures established by the department of health. If the sample of a person's blood was procured pursuant to § 55-10-406 , then the limited testing of the blood sample for the alcohol content, drug content, or both shall be considered a reasonable search for all evidentiary purposes and shall be allowed into evidence without further need of a search warrant or court order. (b) (1) Upon receipt of a specimen forwarded to the director's office or an accredited crime laboratory for analysis, and the "toxicology request for examination" form, which shall indicate whether or not a breath alcohol test has been administered and the results of that test, the director of the Tennessee bureau of investigation or the director of an accredited crime laboratory shall have the specimen examined for alcohol concentration, the presence of narcotics or other drugs, or for both alcohol and drugs, if requested by the arresting officer, county medical examiner, or any district attorney general. The office of the director of the Tennessee bureau of investigation or the director of an accredited crime laboratory shall execute a certificate or report that indicates the name of the accused, the date, the time, and by whom the specimen was received and examined, and a statement of the alcohol concentration or presence of drugs in the specimen. (2) As used in this section, "accredited crime laboratory" shall be limited to those crime laboratories that: (A) Are owned and operated by this state or a political subdivision of this state; (B) Are accredited under ISO/IEC/17025, with associated supplemental requirements; and (C) Provide testing within the scope of the accreditation sufficient to meet the requirements as forensic service providers. (c) When a specimen taken in accordance with this section is forwarded for testing to the office of the director of the Tennessee bureau of investigation, a report of the results of this test shall be made and filed in that office, and a copy mailed to the district attorney general for the district where the case arose. (d) The certificate provided for in this section shall, when duly attested by the director of the Tennessee bureau of investigation or the director's duly appointed representative, be admissible in any court, in any criminal proceeding, as evidence of the facts therein stated, and of the results of the test, if the person taking or causing to be taken the specimen and the person performing the test of the specimen shall be available, if subpoenaed as witnesses, upon demand by either party to the cause, or, when unable to appear as witnesses, shall submit a deposition upon demand by either party to the cause. (e) The person tested shall be entitled to have an additional sample of blood or urine procured and the resulting test performed by any medical laboratory of that person's own choosing and at that person's own expense; provided, that the medical laboratory is licensed pursuant to title 68, chapter 29. Amended by 2024 Tenn. Acts, ch. 892,s 5, eff. 5/1/2024. Amended by 2019 Tenn. Acts, ch. 187, s 11, eff. 7/1/2019. Amended by 2018 Tenn. Acts, ch. 961, s 1, eff. 7/1/2018. Amended by 2017 Tenn. Acts, ch. 304, s 4, eff. 7/1/2017. Amended by 2013 Tenn. Acts, ch. 154, s 8, eff. 7/1/2013. Acts 1969, ch. 292, § 4; 1970, ch. 427, § 5; T.C.A., § 59-1047; Acts 1994, ch. 946, § 1; 1995, ch. 517, § 1; 1996, ch. 915, §§ 2, 3; 2002, ch. 855, § 9.
(a) The procurement of a sample of a person's blood for the purpose of conducting a test to determine the alcohol content, drug content, or both, of the blood shall be considered valid if the sample was collected by a person qualified to do so, as listed in § 55-10-406(e)(2) , or a person acting at the direction of a medical examiner or other physician holding an unlimited license to practice medicine in Tennessee under procedures established by the department of health. If the sample of a person's blood was procured pursuant to § 55-10-406 , then the limited testing of the blood sample for the alcohol content, drug content, or both shall be considered a reasonable search for all evidentiary purposes and shall be allowed into evidence without further need of a search warrant or court order.
(b) (1) Upon receipt of a specimen forwarded to the director's office or an accredited crime laboratory for analysis, and the "toxicology request for examination" form, which shall indicate whether or not a breath alcohol test has been administered and the results of that test, the director of the Tennessee bureau of investigation or the director of an accredited crime laboratory shall have the specimen examined for alcohol concentration, the presence of narcotics or other drugs, or for both alcohol and drugs, if requested by the arresting officer, county medical examiner, or any district attorney general. The office of the director of the Tennessee bureau of investigation or the director of an accredited crime laboratory shall execute a certificate or report that indicates the name of the accused, the date, the time, and by whom the specimen was received and examined, and a statement of the alcohol concentration or presence of drugs in the specimen. (2) As used in this section, "accredited crime laboratory" shall be limited to those crime laboratories that: (A) Are owned and operated by this state or a political subdivision of this state; (B) Are accredited under ISO/IEC/17025, with associated supplemental requirements; and (C) Provide testing within the scope of the accreditation sufficient to meet the requirements as forensic service providers.
(1) Upon receipt of a specimen forwarded to the director's office or an accredited crime laboratory for analysis, and the "toxicology request for examination" form, which shall indicate whether or not a breath alcohol test has been administered and the results of that test, the director of the Tennessee bureau of investigation or the director of an accredited crime laboratory shall have the specimen examined for alcohol concentration, the presence of narcotics or other drugs, or for both alcohol and drugs, if requested by the arresting officer, county medical examiner, or any district attorney general. The office of the director of the Tennessee bureau of investigation or the director of an accredited crime laboratory shall execute a certificate or report that indicates the name of the accused, the date, the time, and by whom the specimen was received and examined, and a statement of the alcohol concentration or presence of drugs in the specimen.
(2) As used in this section, "accredited crime laboratory" shall be limited to those crime laboratories that: (A) Are owned and operated by this state or a political subdivision of this state; (B) Are accredited under ISO/IEC/17025, with associated supplemental requirements; and (C) Provide testing within the scope of the accreditation sufficient to meet the requirements as forensic service providers.
(A) Are owned and operated by this state or a political subdivision of this state;
(B) Are accredited under ISO/IEC/17025, with associated supplemental requirements; and
(C) Provide testing within the scope of the accreditation sufficient to meet the requirements as forensic service providers.
(c) When a specimen taken in accordance with this section is forwarded for testing to the office of the director of the Tennessee bureau of investigation, a report of the results of this test shall be made and filed in that office, and a copy mailed to the district attorney general for the district where the case arose.
(d) The certificate provided for in this section shall, when duly attested by the director of the Tennessee bureau of investigation or the director's duly appointed representative, be admissible in any court, in any criminal proceeding, as evidence of the facts therein stated, and of the results of the test, if the person taking or causing to be taken the specimen and the person performing the test of the specimen shall be available, if subpoenaed as witnesses, upon demand by either party to the cause, or, when unable to appear as witnesses, shall submit a deposition upon demand by either party to the cause.
(e) The person tested shall be entitled to have an additional sample of blood or urine procured and the resulting test performed by any medical laboratory of that person's own choosing and at that person's own expense; provided, that the medical laboratory is licensed pursuant to title 68, chapter 29.
Amended by 2024 Tenn. Acts, ch. 892,s 5, eff. 5/1/2024.
Amended by 2019 Tenn. Acts, ch. 187, s 11, eff. 7/1/2019.
Amended by 2018 Tenn. Acts, ch. 961, s 1, eff. 7/1/2018.
Amended by 2017 Tenn. Acts, ch. 304, s 4, eff. 7/1/2017.
Amended by 2013 Tenn. Acts, ch. 154, s 8, eff. 7/1/2013.
Acts 1969, ch. 292, § 4; 1970, ch. 427, § 5; T.C.A., § 59-1047; Acts 1994, ch. 946, § 1; 1995, ch. 517, § 1; 1996, ch. 915, §§ 2, 3; 2002, ch. 855, § 9.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-3-122 — TN Code / Title 55 / Chapter 3 / Section 55-3-122
New certificate of title issued by department upon satisfaction of certain requirements
Status: in_force

(a) The department, upon receipt of a properly endorsed certificate of title, accompanied by the required fee, and when satisfied as to the genuineness and regularity of the transfer and of the right of the transferee to a certificate of title, shall issue a new certificate of title in the name of the new owner as upon an original application. (b) Where the certificate of title is held by a lienor and title has been transferred by bill of sale in lieu of an assignment and warranty as provided on the reverse side of the certificate of title, the department, upon receipt of a properly executed bill of sale and the required fee and when satisfied as to the genuineness and regularity of the bill of sale and the right of the transferee to a certificate of title, shall procure the certificate of title from the lienor in whose possession it is being held for the sole purpose of transferring ownership, and the department shall then return a certificate of title to the lienor from whom it was obtained. (c) The department, upon proper receipt of all the necessary applications, papers and information required showing title to a motor vehicle to have been transferred as provided by § 55-4-119 , and upon the payment of the required fee, and when satisfied as to the genuineness and regularity of the transfer and the right of the transferee to a certificate of title, shall issue a new certificate of title in the name of the new owner as upon an original application and shall further make demand on the holder or holders of the old certificate of title to surrender the same to the department forthwith, if the certificate of title does not accompany the application. Acts 1951, ch. 70, § 52 (Williams, § 5538.152); Acts 1972, ch. 540, § 5; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 59-323; Acts 2007, ch. 484, § 23.
(a) The department, upon receipt of a properly endorsed certificate of title, accompanied by the required fee, and when satisfied as to the genuineness and regularity of the transfer and of the right of the transferee to a certificate of title, shall issue a new certificate of title in the name of the new owner as upon an original application.
(b) Where the certificate of title is held by a lienor and title has been transferred by bill of sale in lieu of an assignment and warranty as provided on the reverse side of the certificate of title, the department, upon receipt of a properly executed bill of sale and the required fee and when satisfied as to the genuineness and regularity of the bill of sale and the right of the transferee to a certificate of title, shall procure the certificate of title from the lienor in whose possession it is being held for the sole purpose of transferring ownership, and the department shall then return a certificate of title to the lienor from whom it was obtained.
(c) The department, upon proper receipt of all the necessary applications, papers and information required showing title to a motor vehicle to have been transferred as provided by § 55-4-119 , and upon the payment of the required fee, and when satisfied as to the genuineness and regularity of the transfer and the right of the transferee to a certificate of title, shall issue a new certificate of title in the name of the new owner as upon an original application and shall further make demand on the holder or holders of the old certificate of title to surrender the same to the department forthwith, if the certificate of title does not accompany the application.
Acts 1951, ch. 70, § 52 (Williams, § 5538.152); Acts 1972, ch. 540, § 5; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 59-323; Acts 2007, ch. 484, § 23.