Driver's License Examiner

Job Overview

The Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security is seeking responsible individuals to fill two full-time Driver's License Examiner positions in Knoxville, TN. These roles involve evaluating drivers' eligibility for licensing services including renewals, replacements, testing, and handgun permits through administering vision, written, and road tests. Unlike branch managers, examiners focus solely on examination work.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

• Clarify state laws, licensing prerequisites, and department policies to applicants, answering inquiries on office operations, fees, and application processes.
• Collect fees and verify identification documents such as social security cards, proofs of residence, and valid licenses; access and approve applicants' testing files.
• Reconcile cash and receipt reports daily, prepare bank deposits accurately, and manage financial records for the office.
• Guide applicants through form completion and testing procedures; conduct vision screenings, written exams, and road tests consistent with Tennessee regulations; take applicant photographs digitally.
• Inspect vehicles for operational safety, including lights, brakes, and signals; assess applicants’ driving skills and compliance with road regulations during tests.
• Maintain and update licensing records in the License Information System for Tennessee, verifying applicant information for accuracy and correctness.
• Handle complex cases such as immigration-related inquiries, special assistance requests, audits, reporting, and supply ordering.

Required Qualifications and Conditions

• High school diploma or equivalent is mandatory with proof of education (transcripts or diploma) required.
• Must pass a comprehensive criminal background check including fingerprinting and name-based checks; disqualifying offenses per CFR Title 49 apply.
• Possession of a valid motor vehicle operator's license or the ability to acquire one before employment.
• Driver record must be clean of DUI, reckless driving, recent license suspensions, and excessive moving violations over the last five years.

Competencies, Knowledge, and Skills

• Strong customer focus with the ability to build trust and demonstrate resilience.
• Effective interpersonal skills to communicate licensing rules and procedures clearly.
• Competency in clerical work, customer service, English language usage, public safety awareness, and transportation regulations.
• Skills in active listening, critical thinking, instructing, service orientation, and verbal communication.
• Abilities including deductive reasoning, written comprehension, speech recognition, mathematical reasoning, and timely reaction capability.

Tools and Equipment Utilized

• Computerized cashier systems and standard office equipment.
• Digital cameras for applicant photos and computerized testing systems.
• Motor vehicles for driving tests and safety inspections.

Additional Information

• Two positions available at the Knoxville Driver Services Center.
• Employment is full-time and on-site.
• Salary ranges from $34,752 to $51,972 annually.
• Must complete a background clearance application and agree to release criminal history records.
• Applicants will be required to confirm driver’s license information in their application documentation.