Tennessee DUI & Violation Insurance Guide
Tennessee requires 25/50/25 liability coverage and is an at-fault state.
Find Coverage for My SituationTennessee 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
Minimum Coverage Requirements in Tennessee
After a DUI or major violation in Tennessee, most insurers will non-renew your policy at the end of your current term rather than cancel it immediately — giving you 30-60 days to find replacement coverage. Tennessee typically requires drivers with certain violations to file an SR-22 certificate with the state, proving continuous liability coverage for a specified period. You'll need to find a carrier that offers SR-22 filing, which eliminates most standard insurers and routes you toward non-standard or high-risk carriers.
SR-22 Certificate Filing
Non-Standard Auto Insurance
Liability Insurance
High-Risk Auto Insurance
What Drivers Pay in Tennessee
$223–$269/mo
Typical monthly rate in Tennessee, drivers after a speeding ticket
Rate data: ValuePenguin and CarInsurance.com, 2026
What Affects Your Rate
- Violation type — DUI carries the highest rate penalty, often doubling or tripling premiums
- Time since violation — rates decrease gradually after 3-5 years with a clean record
- Prior violations or accidents — multiple incidents compound rate increases
- Age and gender — younger violation drivers typically face higher premiums
- Vehicle type — newer or high-value vehicles cost more to insure with a violation record
- Coverage level — carrying only minimum liability reduces premium but offers minimal protection
Get Back to a Fair Rate After a Violation
Find Coverage for My SituationCoverage Types
SR-22 Insurance
The SR-22 certificate filing required by Tennessee after certain violations. It's attached to a liability policy and proves continuous coverage to the state for the required period, typically 3 years.
Non-Standard Auto Insurance
Coverage from carriers specializing in high-risk drivers with violations, DUIs, suspensions, or lapses. These carriers offer SR-22 filing and accept drivers standard insurers reject.
High-Risk Auto Insurance
Policies designed for drivers classified as high-risk due to DUIs, multiple violations, accidents, or license issues. Premiums reflect elevated risk but provide path to coverage.
Liability Insurance
The minimum coverage required to legally drive in Tennessee and satisfy SR-22 filing requirements. Covers damage you cause to others but not your own vehicle.