Nashville, Tennessee --- The Tennessee Department of Safety (TDOS) announced today the opening of an improved driver license station in Tipton County on August 3. The larger, full-service facility provides customers with additional space with which to conduct their driver license transactions.

"Providing greater access to and better assistance of driver license services remains a top priority of the Department," said Department of Safety Commissioner Fred Phillips. "The new Covington driver license station is a vast improvement over the existing space. By nearly tripling the size of the Covington facility, we're able to serve more customers in a better environment."

The new driver license facility is a total of 2,353 square feet, as opposed to the 808 square feet at the existing 300 Highway 51 South building. The new facility offers a separate testing area conducive to applicants requiring testing. Additionally, the location has a designated waiting area for all customers.

The new facility is located at 220 Highway 51 North, Suite 2, in Covington. Operating hours are Tuesday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. The Covington driver license station processes all driver license transactions including new issuance, renewals and duplicates as well as conducts the required knowledge, vision and skills exams. The office also processes driving record (MVR) requests and handgun applications.

A grand opening ceremony for the Covington facility will be held Monday, August 2 at 11:00 a.m. The public is invited.

TDOS remind citizens they can often times avoid a trip to a driver license stations by visiting www.tennessee.gov/safety where they can conduct some of the most common driver license services online. Services offered online include renewals, duplicates, reinstatements and change of address.

The Tennessee Department of Safety's mission is (www.tennessee.gov/safety) to ensure the safety and general welfare of the public. The department encompasses the Tennessee Highway Patrol, Office of Homeland Security and Driver License Services. General areas of responsibility include law enforcement, safety education, motorist services and terrorism prevention.