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
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Frequently Asked Questions
Sources
- Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security – Driver Services Division
- Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance – Insurance Division
- Tennessee Code Annotated Title 55 – Motor and Other Vehicles