Tennessee SR-22 & High-Risk Auto Insurance
Tennessee requires 25/50/25 liability coverage and is an at-fault state.
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Tennessee at a Glance
25/50/25
Minimum liability limits, in thousands of dollars (per person / per accident / property)
At-fault
The at-fault driver's insurance pays for the damage they cause
Optional
PIP and uninsured motorist coverage are not required by law
No
A defensive driving course does not remove points here
Source: state DMV, insurance department and statute records, verified July 2026
State Requirements
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.
Liability Insurance
SR-22 Insurance
Non-Standard Auto Insurance
Uninsured Motorist Coverage
Full Coverage
Cost Overview
$223–$269/mo
Typical monthly rate in Tennessee, drivers after a speeding ticket
Rate data: ValuePenguin and CarInsurance.com, 2026
What Affects Your Rate
- 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
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See Carriers That Cover YouFrequently Asked Questions
How long does SR-22 stay on your record in Tennessee?
Tennessee requires SR-22 filing for 3 years from the date of license reinstatement or court order. The SR-22 itself does not stay on your driving record permanently, but the underlying violation (DUI, suspension, etc.) remains on your record for 7–10 years depending on offense type. Once you complete the 3-year SR-22 requirement without lapses, you can switch to a standard policy, though the violation will continue affecting rates until it ages off for insurance rating purposes, typically 3–5 years.
How many points before license suspension in Tennessee?
Tennessee suspends your driver's license if you accumulate 12 or more points within any 12-month period. Points range from 1 point for minor violations like improper passing to 8 points for reckless driving or speed contest. After suspension, you must complete the suspension period, pay reinstatement fees, and often file SR-22 for 3 years before regaining full driving privileges.
How long do points stay on your driving record in Tennessee?
Tennessee removes points from your driving record 2 years from the conviction date, though the violation itself remains visible on your record for 7–10 years depending on severity. For insurance rating purposes, most carriers apply surcharges for 3–5 years after the violation date, meaning your rates improve before the violation disappears completely from your official record. Completing a state-approved defensive driving course can reduce points by up to 3 once every 5 years.
Can I get SR-22 removed early in Tennessee?
No, Tennessee requires the full 3-year SR-22 filing period without exceptions for early removal. The clock starts on the date of license reinstatement or court order, and any lapse in coverage during those 3 years resets the requirement from the new reinstatement date. After completing 3 years without lapses, the SR-22 filing ends automatically and you can switch to a standard policy, though the underlying violation continues to affect rates for another 1–3 years typically.
Coverage 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.