Tennessee prohibits mandatory use of digital driver licenses for identification services

On February 26, 2025, the Tennessee State Legislature introduced Senate Bill 1297, a legislative proposal aimed at modernizing the state's driver licensing system by incorporating a digital driver license option. The bill seeks to address the growing demand for digital identification methods while ensuring that individuals retain the choice to use traditional physical driver licenses.

Key provisions of Senate Bill 1297 include the establishment of a digital driver license system that allows participants to access their identification through electronic devices. Importantly, the bill stipulates that individuals are not required to use a digital driver license in place of a physical one, ensuring that no entity can mandate or favor the use of digital licenses over traditional forms of identification. This provision aims to protect consumer choice and privacy.

The bill also outlines specific conditions under which a person's participation in the digital driver license system may be disabled, suspended, or terminated. These conditions include instances where a physical driver license has been canceled, revoked, or suspended, or if the participant reports their electronic device as lost or stolen. In such cases, the digital license must be disabled immediately, with a requirement to remove it from the device within 20 days if the physical license is not restored.

Notably, the bill amends existing Tennessee Code Annotated to clarify the definition of a Class D driver license, which encompasses the operation of various vehicles, excluding those classified as commercial motor vehicles.

The introduction of Senate Bill 1297 has sparked discussions among lawmakers regarding the implications of digital identification systems, particularly concerning privacy, security, and accessibility. Supporters argue that the bill represents a necessary step toward modernization and convenience for Tennessee residents, while critics express concerns about potential risks associated with digital data management and the digital divide affecting those without access to technology.

As the bill progresses through the legislative process, its potential impact on Tennessee's identification practices and the broader implications for digital privacy and security will be closely monitored. The outcome of Senate Bill 1297 could set a precedent for how states approach digital identification in the future, reflecting a significant shift in the intersection of technology and public policy.