Tennessee Teens Keen on New App for Taking Driver's Test at Home, Online

The Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security (TDOSHS) is making it easier for teenagers to take their driver's test by administering the exam online.

Thousands of youths appreciate the opportunity to get tested faster and easier while being spared the hassle of a trip to the Driving Service Center's physical location.

The new service enjoyed a significant response, with 43,000 youths between the ages of 15 and 17 opting for the remote testing option. That number of Tennessee teens was garnered over a period of just six months.

To take the test at home, teenagers must be under the supervision of a “proctor.” That usually means a parent or legal guardian. Those taking the test must also provide identity verification and agree to be monitored while taking the driver’s test.

If the test is failed twice, the applicant must visit the Driver Service Center to try the test again.

Jeff Long is the commissioner of the TDOSHS. He said the online testing program is an attempt to find new and innovative ways to serve the people of Tennessee better. He added that the online testing program shows great promise. He said it has already reduced processing time and created less physical traffic at the driver-testing brick-and-mortar location.

Long said that parents have also expressed appreciation for the program because it saves them the time and effort of accompanying their kids to the Driving Service Center.

Those wishing to take the at-home test must download an app from the Apple app site or Google Play. The app is called the Tennessee Proctor ID. Users report the app is easy to find and it installs without glitches.