UPDATED: DECEMBER 05, 2022 | 2 MIN READ
Tennessee requires SR-22 insurance from drivers with serious traffic violations. If you have a DUI conviction or drive without insurance, you need an SR-22. SR-22 often increases car insurance rates for Tennessee motorists, especially if they have multiple driving violations. Let’s discuss SR-22 insurance in Tennessee, including what an SR-22 is, how to get it, and what it requires.
What you need to know about Tennessee SR-22 insurance
SR-22 insurance, although called “insurance,” is a form or document certifying you carry the minimum state car insurance in both bodily injury and property damage liability insurance. It’s proof of financial responsibility your insurance company submits to the Tennessee Department of Safety (DOS).
While the SR-22 form filing fee is minimal, insurance carriers increase drivers’ rates once they need an SR-22. The SR-22 indicates you as a high-risk driver.
How much does SR-22 insurance cost in Tennessee
The average annual cost of SR-22 insurance in Tennessee is $516. This is an average, however. Rates for SR-22 coverage vary by carrier, location, driving offense, and the driver’s age, gender, and vehicle.
| Company | Avg. Cost per Month With an SR-22 & DUI | Avg. Cost Increase After a DUI |
|---|---|---|
| USAA | $66 | 115% |
| Progressive | $38 | 20% |
| GEICO | $117 | 184% |
| Allstate | $83 | 44% |
| State Farm | $56 | 67% |
| Tennessee Farmers | $69 | 74% |
When are you required to get SR-22 certificate in Tennessee
Tennessee drivers with serious moving violations need an SR-22 certificate on file. Offenses requiring an SR-22 include:
- A DUI conviction
- Driving without insurance
- Reckless driving
- Driving with a suspended license
- Hit and run or leaving the scene of an accident
- Multiple traffic violations in a short period
If you need an SR-22 form, the state notifies you.
How long do you have to carry an SR-22 ?
The state of Tennessee requires an SR-22 for a minimum of three years. Depending on your driving violation, you may need the SR-22 for up to five years from your driver’s license suspension date. If you cancel the SR-22 before its required period, the state revokes your driving privileges.
How a DUI impacts your car insurance rates in Tennessee
A DUI can increase your car insurance rates by more than 70% in Tennessee. The average DUI car insurance increase is 128%, plus the DUI may affect your premiums for up to 10 years. The insurance rate increase varies by your carrier, age, location, and other factors.
Driving without insurance
Tennessee may request an SR-22 if you drive without insurance. If you need an SR-22, your insurance company may increase your car insurance premium. The state also requires an active auto insurance policy for up to five years, and if your insurance lapses, it sets the clock back.
Non-owner SR-22 insurance in Tennessee
Tennessee drivers without a car may still need SR-22 insurance if they have a DUI charge or other violations, including reckless driving. Non-owner car insurance meets the state’s requirements and offers you insurance coverage.
A non-owner SR-22 policy is cheaper than traditional car insurance but still features higher rates than drivers without traffic violations. If you live in a household with someone who owns a car, most insurance companies will deny you non-owner coverage.
How to get SR-22 insurance in Tennessee
If you need an SR-22 form in Tennessee, you can first ask your existing car insurance provider. The filing fee for the SR-22 costs, on average, $15 to $25. Once it files the form, your carrier may increase your car insurance rates. If your current car insurance company doesn’t offer SR-22, you must find a company that can file it on your behalf.
FAQs
How long do I need an SR-22 in Tennessee?
Tennessee car insurance law requires an SR-22 for a minimum of three years. You may need an SR-22 for up to five years based on your driving offense.
What does SR-22 insurance cost for Tennessee drivers?
The filing fee for SR-22 insurance is typically under $50. Your insurance premium may increase by 20% or higher; this depends on the reason for the SR-22. If you compare car insurance quotes, you may find a more affordable rate than your current carrier.
Who offers the cheapest SR-22 insurance in TN after a DUI?
The most affordable SR-22 insurance in Tennessee after a DUI is with Progressive. Progressive features an average monthly rate of $38 for SR-22 insurance with a DUI. The rate you pay varies and may be higher or lower than this average based on your location, age, gender, and vehicle.
Do you need SR-22 insurance with a parking ticket?
No. You only need SR-22 insurance for serious driving violations. Tennessee requires SR-22 from reckless drivers, drives with a DUI, or after a hit-and-run. Drivers with excessive speeding tickets may need an SR-22 form.
Where do I get SR-22 insurance in Tennessee?
If you need an SR-22 in Tennessee, your current car insurance provider may file it on your behalf. Many insurance carriers offer SR-22 forms, but if yours doesn’t, you need to find a company that does.
Compare SR-22 insurance in Tennessee
Tennessee drivers who need SR-22 insurance should expect higher car insurance rates for several years, particularly after a DUI conviction. The state requires an SR-22 form for a minimum of three years, but it may affect your rates for up to 10 years. One way to ease the cost increase is to compare car insurance quotes from multiple providers. It only takes a few minutes, so request your rates now.
