Auto Insurance Minimum Requirements
Tennessee requires all drivers to carry minimum liability coverage of $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident for bodily injury, plus $15,000 for property damage — commonly written as 25/50/15. Tennessee is a tort (at-fault) state, which determines how fault and claims are handled after a collision. Uninsured motorist coverage is not required by law but is strongly recommended. Personal Injury Protection (PIP) is not required.
Important Notes
Enforces compliance using the electronic tracking platform, the Tennessee Insurance Verification System (TIVS).
Uninsured / Underinsured Motorist
Must be offered; policyholder can decline in writing via a standard waiver form.
SR-22 Filings
Required for 3 continuous years following specific moving violations or lack of active coverage.
Alternatives to Insurance
A cash deposit or corporate surety bond of $65,000 filed with the Department of Safety.
Fine
$100–$300
License / Registration
Suspension: Yes
SR-22 Required After
Yes
What is the minimum car insurance required in Tennessee?
Tennessee requires minimum liability coverage of $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident for bodily injury, plus $15,000 for property damage. This is written as 25/50/15 coverage.
Is Tennessee a no-fault state?
No, Tennessee is a tort (at-fault) state. The driver responsible for the accident is liable for damages, and claims are filed against their insurance.
Is uninsured motorist coverage required in Tennessee?
Uninsured motorist coverage is not required in Tennessee, but it is strongly recommended given the proportion of uninsured drivers nationwide.
What happens if I drive without insurance in Tennessee?
Driving without insurance in Tennessee can result in fines of $100–$300 and license/registration suspension. An SR-22 certificate is typically required to reinstate your driving privileges.
Do I need an SR-22 in Tennessee?
SR-22 filings are used in Tennessee for high-risk drivers following events like DUI convictions, serious violations, or driving without insurance. An SR-22 is a certificate of financial responsibility filed by your insurer — it is not a type of insurance policy. Required for 3 continuous years following specific moving violations or lack of active coverage.
What does 25/50/15 mean in Tennessee?
These numbers represent your liability limits: $25,000 per person for bodily injury, $50,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $15,000 for property damage. These are the legal minimums — purchasing higher limits provides greater financial protection.
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Official Source
Tennessee Department of Revenue
More Tennessee Resources
Data Methodology
DataTactic researchers verify auto insurance minimum requirements directly against official government sources — Tennessee Department of Revenue publications, state statutes, and agency websites. Each data point is cross-referenced against primary sources before publication. Records are reviewed and updated when laws or requirements change.
Last verified: 2026-05-27 · Always confirm with official state sources before making coverage decisions.