Those who are not citizens of the United States must renew their temporary driver's license in-person. Those who hold a valid license can renew it upwards of a full year prior to its expiration. The status of your license dictates when and how it can be renewed. Be on the lookout for a renewal notice mailed by the Tennessee DMV.
Regardless of the method for renewal you select, you should get the ball rolling on the process at least a couple months prior to your license's expiration date. It is possible to renew your driver's license in-person, by mail or on the web.
TN Renewal Options and Timeline to Renew Drivers License Tennessee