Updated March 2026
State Requirements
Tennessee mandates minimum liability coverage of $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident for bodily injury, plus $15,000 for property damage. The state requires SR-22 financial responsibility filing for DUI convictions, driving without insurance, multiple violations within 12 months, or license suspensions related to at-fault accidents. Tennessee uses a point system where accumulating 12 points within 12 months triggers license suspension, and certain high-point violations or suspensions trigger mandatory SR-22 filing for 3 years.
Cost Overview
Tennessee high-risk auto insurance premiums vary widely based on violation type, points on record, and driving history length. Drivers with a single DUI average $2,800–$4,800 annually, while multiple violations or suspensions can push premiums to $4,000–$6,500. Rates begin to normalize 3–5 years after violations, with most points falling off the record after 2 years and surcharges declining as the violation ages.
What Affects Your Rate
- Violation type and severity: DUI, reckless driving, and suspensions carry the highest surcharges in Tennessee, often 150–250% above base rates
- Points on record: Tennessee assesses 1–8 points per violation, with 12 points in 12 months triggering suspension; carriers apply surcharges for 3+ points
- Time since violation: Surcharges decrease annually as violations age, with most dropping off after 3 years for rating purposes even if points remain on record longer
- SR-22 filing requirement: Drivers needing SR-22 face limited carrier options and non-standard market pricing, typically 80–120% higher than standard rates
- Prior lapses in coverage: Coverage gaps of 30+ days signal higher risk to insurers, adding 15–40% to premiums even without other violations
- Vehicle type and value: High-value or sports vehicles compound high-risk premiums, with collision and comprehensive costs rising 60–100% after at-fault accidents
Compare rates from carriers that work with drivers who have points
Standard carriers surcharge heavily after violations. These specialists price your specific record differently.
Get Your Free QuoteCoverage Types
Liability Insurance
Covers injuries and property damage you cause to others. Tennessee minimum is $25,000/$50,000/$15,000, but drivers with assets or high-risk profiles should consider $100,000/$300,000 limits to avoid personal liability exposure.
SR-22 Insurance
Proof-of-insurance certificate filed with the state for DUI, suspension, or serious violations. Required for 3 years without lapses; any gap resets the clock and suspends your license immediately.
Non-Standard Auto Insurance
Specialized coverage for drivers with DUI, suspensions, lapses, or multiple violations who cannot qualify for standard carrier rates. Non-standard markets offer SR-22 filing and flexible payment plans.
Full Coverage
Liability plus comprehensive and collision to cover damage to your vehicle from accidents, weather, theft, or vandalism. Required by lenders for financed or leased vehicles regardless of driving record.
Uninsured Motorist Coverage
Pays for your injuries and vehicle damage when hit by a driver with no insurance or insufficient coverage. Tennessee requires insurers to offer UM coverage, though it can be rejected in writing.
Collision Coverage
Pays to repair or replace your vehicle after an at-fault accident regardless of who caused the crash. Required by lenders; optional if vehicle is paid off and older.
