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Tennessee Car Insurance Requirements for 2025 (TN Minimum Coverage)

Tennessee car insurance requirements are 25/50/25. These TN insurance limits include $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident for bodily injury liability, and $25,000 for property damage liability. At $18 per month, TN car insurance premiums are affordable, helping drivers avoid out-of-pocket expenses after an accident.

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Laura Kuhl

Insurance Content Team Lead

Laura Kuhl holds a Master’s Degree in Professional Writing from the University of North Carolina at Wilmington. Her career began in healthcare and wellness, creating lifestyle content for doctors, dentists, and other healthcare and holistic professionals. In 2018, she started writing for the cannabis industry. She curated news articles and insider interviews with investors and small business ow...

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Laura Kuhl
Eric Stauffer

Licensed Insurance Agent

Eric Stauffer is an insurance agent and banker-turned-consumer advocate. His priority is educating individuals and families about the different types of insurance coverage. He is passionate about helping consumers find the best coverage for their budgets and personal needs. Eric is the CEO of C Street Media, a full-service marketing firm and the co-founder of ProperCents.com, a financial educat...

Reviewed by
Eric Stauffer

Updated January 2025

Uncover Tennessee car insurance requirements to ensure you meet the state’s minimum 25/50/25 coverage limits, which means $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident for bodily injury liability, plus $25,000 for property damage liability.

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With rates starting as low as $18 per month, drivers can find affordable coverage while avoiding costly penalties. Top providers like USAA, State Farm, and Farmers offer competitive options to help you stay compliant and protected.

Tennessee Minimum Car Insurance Coverage Requirements & Limits

CoverageLimits
Bodily Injury Liability$25,000 per person / $50,000 per accident
Property Damage Liability$25,000 per accident

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Learn how to secure the right policy to safeguard your finances and drive with peace of mind in the Volunteer State.

To ensure you get the coverage you need at the best possible rates, we invite you to enter your ZIP code now. Compare car insurance quotes and make an informed decision to safeguard yourself and your vehicle on Tennessee’s roads.

The Rundown

  • Tennessee car insurance requirements include 25/50/25 liability coverage limits
  • USAA offers affordable rates for TN drivers, starting at just $18 per month
  • Driving uninsured in TN can lead to fines and license suspension

Tennessee Car Insurance Requirements & What They Cover

Tennessee car insurance laws mandate that all personal vehicles meet the state’s minimum car insurance in Tennessee requirements. Under Tennessee minimum car insurance requirements, drivers must carry at least 25/50/25 liability coverage, which includes $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $25,000 per accident for property damage.

Bodily Injury Liability vs. Property Damage Liability Definition Card: Tennessee Car Insurance Requirements

These Tennessee auto insurance requirements are essential for financial protection and compliance with Tennessee car insurance laws. If you’re wondering, does Tennessee require car insurance? The answer is yes, as TN car insurance laws ensure drivers are held financially responsible for damages.

Additionally, Tennessee car insurance law requires proof of insurance when registering a car. Failure to meet TN state minimum car insurance coverage can lead to fines, license suspension, and other penalties, making it vital to understand Tennessee minimum insurance requirements and secure proper coverage.

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Cheapest Car Insurance in Tennessee

Finding the cheapest Tennessee state minimum car insurance can help drivers meet TN auto insurance requirements without overspending. USAA offers the most affordable rates in the state, starting at just $18 per month, followed by State Farm at $22 per month and Farmers at $27 per month.

Cheapest in Tennessee: USAA
4.8

Company Facts

Min. Coverage in Tennessee

$18/mo

A.M. Best Rating

A++

Complaint Level

High

Pros & Cons

  • Rates are lower than the national average
  • Customer complaints for home insurance are generally low
  • USAA includes many free coverage options in standard policies
  • Easy-to-use mobile app
  • Fewer coverage options compared to competitors
  • Strict membership requirements
  • USAA doesn’t write flood insurance and windstorm coverage options
2nd Cheapest in Tennessee: State Farm
4.3

Company Facts

Min. Coverage in Tennessee

$22/mo

A.M. Best Rating

B

Complaint Level

Low

Pros & Cons

  • Well-established and reputable.
  • A+ rating with A.M. Best and AA rating with S&P.
  • Offers a range of discounts to help customers save on insurance costs.
  • Extensive agent network for personalized service.
  • Efficient claims handling process.
  • Comprehensive coverage options including auto, home, life, and health insurance.
  • Some negative reviews or complaints may exist, as with any company.
  • Rates may vary depending on individual circumstances.
  • Discounts availability might differ by state.
3rd Cheapest in Tennessee: Farmers
3.9

Company Facts

Min. Coverage in Tennessee

$27/mo

A.M. Best Rating

A

Complaint Level

Med

Pros & Cons

  • Wide Range of Products: Offers a comprehensive portfolio of insurance products, including auto, home, life, renters, business, and more.
  • Nationwide Coverage: Operates in all 50 states and the District of Columbia, providing widespread accessibility to customers.
  • Discounts and Savings: Provides various discounts, such as safe driver, multi-policy, and home safety discounts, helping customers save on premiums.
  • Technological Advancements: Embraces technology with a mobile app and online account management for convenient policy management.
  • Efficient Claims Handling: Multiple channels for filing claims, with a commitment to streamlined and prompt claim processing.
  • Mixed Customer Reviews: Customer reviews are mixed, indicating varying experiences with the company’s services.
  • Customer Satisfaction Discrepancies: While some customers praise the company’s financial strength and rates, others express dissatisfaction with the customer experience.
  • Limited Information on Financial Strength: The article does not provide specific details on Farmers Insurance’s financial strength, an important factor for potential customers.
  • Competitive Market: Faces strong competition from well-established competitors such as State Farm, Allstate, GEICO, Progressive, and Nationwide.
  • Complaints About Premium Costs: Customer feedback may suggest concerns about the cost of insurance, emphasizing the need for individuals to compare quotes.

Meeting Tennessee minimum auto insurance requirements is essential for compliance with Tennessee auto insurance laws, ensuring you’re covered for 25/50/25 coverage limits. If you’re asking, is car insurance required in Tennessee? The answer is yes, as all drivers must have coverage to avoid penalties.

Tennessee Minimum Coverage Monthly Rates by City

CityRates
Chattanooga$108
Clarksville$110
Franklin$102
Hendersonville$105
Jackson$113
Johnson City$94
Knoxville$107
Memphis$142
Murfreesboro$107
Nashville$113

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Monthly rates for Tennessee state minimum car insurance vary by city, reflecting factors like location and risk levels. For example, rates average $94 per month in Johnson City, $108 per month in Chattanooga, and $142 per month in Memphis.

State Farm: Provider Screenshot: Tennessee Car Insurance Requirements

Understanding TN car insurance requirements and comparing rates can help drivers in cities like Nashville, Knoxville, and Franklin secure affordable coverage. To address questions such as, “Do you need car insurance in Tennessee?” Securing a policy not only fulfills legal obligations but also protects your finances in case of an accident.

Read more: Most Stolen Cars in Tennessee

Other Coverage Options to Consider in Tennessee

Meeting Tennessee car insurance requirements is important, but adding extra coverage can give you more protection and peace of mind. Here are some helpful options to consider:

  • Comprehensive Coverage: Comprehensive coverage covers damage to your car from non-accident events like theft, floods, or vandalism. It’s a smart choice if your car is valuable or at a higher risk of being stolen.
  • Collision Coverage: Collision car insurance pays to fix or replace your car if it’s damaged in an accident, no matter who is at fault. This is especially useful for newer vehicles.
  • Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage: Uninsured/underinsured motorist insurance coverage protects you if you’re in an accident caused by a driver who doesn’t have enough insurance or no insurance at all.

Adding these coverages can help protect your car and your finances. While they aren’t required, they’re highly recommended to prepare for unexpected situations on the road.

Proof of Insurance and Financial Responsibility

To follow Tennessee car insurance requirements, drivers need to show proof of insurance or financial responsibility. You can do this by getting a standard car insurance policy, posting a bond or deposit with the Department of Safety (DOS), or qualifying for self-insurance if you own 25 or more vehicles for business use.

These options ensure you are prepared to cover costs if an accident happens. You can show proof of insurance using an insurance ID card, an insurance binder or declaration, or a certificate that shows you’ve posted a bond or deposit with the DOS.

In Tennessee, make sure your policy meets state minimum requirements while considering extra coverage for full protection.

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This proof is required when registering or renewing your car, after an accident, when stopped by police, or if the DMV sends you a letter. Always keep your insurance information with you to avoid fines and stay on the right side of Tennessee car insurance laws.

Penalties for Driving Without Auto Insurance in Tennessee

Driving without insurance in Tennessee comes with serious consequences, as TN car insurance laws require all drivers to carry at least the minimum liability coverage.

Penalties for Driving Without Auto Insurance in Tennessee

ViolationPenalty
First Offense- Fine of up to $100
Second Offense- Fine of $200
Third or Subsequent Offense- Fine up to $500
License Suspension- Suspension for up to 90 days
Registration Suspension- Suspension of vehicle registration
Court Appearance- Mandatory court appearance may be required
Insurance Reinstatement- Proof of insurance and payment of reinstatement fees required before driving again
Vehicle Towed- Vehicle may be towed and impounded

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Penalties for a first offense include a fine of up to $100, while repeat offenses can result in fines up to $500, along with a mandatory court appearance. Additional penalties may include license suspension for up to 90 days, registration suspension, and the towing or impoundment of your vehicle.

To reinstate your driving privileges, you must provide proof of insurance and pay reinstatement fees. Does TN require car insurance? The answer is yes, as failing to meet these requirements can lead to costly fines and disruptions to your ability to drive legally.

Read more: Best Car Insurance for Drivers with Speeding Tickets in Tennessee

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Importance of Meeting Tennessee Car Insurance Requirements

Maintaining proper insurance coverage is not just about following Tennessee car insurance laws. It’s about protecting yourself, your finances, and other drivers on the road.

Whether you’re meeting the state’s 25/50/25 minimum requirements or adding extra coverage like comprehensive or collision, having the right policy ensures peace of mind and financial security. Failing to carry insurance can lead to fines, license suspension, and other costly penalties, making it essential to stay compliant.

By comparing rates and choosing a policy that fits your needs and budget, you can drive legally and confidently across Tennessee. By entering your ZIP code, you can get instant car insurance quotes from top providers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you have to have car insurance in Tennessee?

Yes, Tennessee requires all drivers to carry liability insurance to cover bodily injury and property damage in case of an accident.

Do you need insurance to register a car in Tennessee?

Yes, proof of insurance is required when registering a vehicle in Tennessee to ensure compliance with state car insurance laws. See how much you’ll pay for car insurance by entering your ZIP code into our free comparison tool.

Does Tennessee require auto insurance for all drivers?

Yes, Tennessee requires all drivers to have at least the state minimum car insurance coverage of 25/50/25 for liability.

Do you need car insurance in Tennessee to drive legally?

Yes, car insurance is required in Tennessee to drive legally, and failure to carry insurance can result in fines and penalties.

Read more: Best Car Insurance for Drivers After an Accident in Tennessee

What is the minimum car insurance coverage required in Tennessee?

The minimum coverage required is $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident for bodily injury, plus $25,000 for property damage.

Read more: Types of Car Insurance Coverage

What happens if you drive without car insurance in Tennessee?

Driving without insurance can result in fines, license suspension, registration suspension, and additional fees for reinstatement.

Can you register a car in Tennessee without proof of insurance?

No, Tennessee requires proof of insurance before you can register or renew your vehicle’s registration.

What is uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, and is it required in Tennessee?

Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage protects you if another driver causes an accident and lacks sufficient insurance. It is not mandatory in Tennessee but is highly recommended.

Read more: What does car insurance cover?

How can I prove financial responsibility instead of buying insurance in Tennessee?

You can post a bond or deposit with the Department of Safety or qualify for self-insurance if you own 25 or more vehicles. Enter your ZIP code into our free comparison tool to see how much car insurance costs in your area.

How much does the cheapest car insurance cost in Tennessee?

The cheapest car insurance in Tennessee starts at $18 per month with USAA, followed by State Farm at $22 per month. Rates depend on the coverage, location, and driving history (Read more: USAA Insurance Review & Ratings).

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