Tennessee SR-22 Insurance Requirements
Understanding SR-22 insurance filing requirements, costs, and compliance in Tennessee after a DUI
Critical: 3-Year Continuous Coverage Requirement
Tennessee requires SR-22 insurance for 3 years following a DUI conviction or license reinstatement. Even a 1-day lapse in coverage will restart the entire 3-year clock from the beginning. Maintaining continuous coverage is absolutely critical in Tennessee.
What is SR-22 Insurance in Tennessee?
SR-22 is not a type of insurance—it's a certificate of financial responsibility that proves you carry Tennessee's minimum liability insurance. The Tennessee Department of Safety requires high-risk drivers to file SR-22 after certain violations.
Who Needs SR-22 in Tennessee
- DUI or DWI conviction
- Driving without insurance
- Repeated traffic violations
- License suspension for points
- At-fault accident without insurance
Tennessee Minimum Coverage
SR-22 Costs in Tennessee
One-time fee to file SR-22 with Tennessee Department of Safety
Average increase over normal rates (varies by insurer)
Must maintain SR-22 continuously
Total Cost: Expect to pay $1,200-$3,600 in additional premiums over the 3-year requirement period, plus the initial filing fee. Actual cost depends on your driving history, age, location, and insurance company.
How to Get SR-22 in Tennessee (5 Steps)
Contact Insurance Companies
Call multiple insurers that offer SR-22 in Tennessee (Progressive, GEICO, State Farm, The General, National General). Not all companies offer SR-22, so ask specifically.
Purchase Liability Insurance
Buy an auto insurance policy that meets Tennessee minimum coverage requirements ($25k/$50k/$15k). You must maintain this policy continuously for 3 years without any lapses.
Request SR-22 Filing
Tell your insurer you need an SR-22 certificate filed with the Tennessee Department of Safety. They will add this to your policy and charge the filing fee ($15-25).
Insurer Files with Department of Safety
Your insurance company electronically files the SR-22 certificate with the Tennessee Department of Safety. This usually happens within 24-48 hours.
Receive Confirmation
You'll receive a copy of your SR-22 certificate. The Department of Safety will update your records to show proof of insurance. Keep a copy in your vehicle at all times.
Critical: Avoiding Coverage Lapses
Tennessee has one of the strictest SR-22 policies in the country. If your SR-22 insurance lapses for ANY reason—even a single day—during the 3-year period, Tennessee law requires:
- Your insurer must notify the Department of Safety immediately
- Your license is immediately suspended
- The entire 3-year requirement period restarts from scratch
- You'll pay reinstatement fees ($75-250) to restore your license
- Additional penalties and possible criminal charges for driving suspended
Tennessee-Specific Warning: Unlike some states that allow a grace period, Tennessee treats even a 1-day lapse as a complete violation. This will reset your entire 3-year clock, meaning you'll have to maintain coverage for another full 3 years from the lapse date.
Common Causes of Lapse
- • Missing premium payment
- • Policy canceled by insurer
- • Switching insurers without maintaining SR-22
- • Letting policy expire accidentally
How to Prevent Lapses
- • Set up automatic payments
- • Set calendar reminders for renewal
- • When switching insurers, ensure new SR-22 is filed BEFORE canceling old policy
- • Keep proof of SR-22 in vehicle
Insurance Companies Offering SR-22 in Tennessee
Not all insurers offer SR-22. These companies commonly provide SR-22 certificates in Tennessee:
Pro Tip: Get quotes from at least 3 companies. SR-22 rates vary significantly between insurers. Shopping around can save you hundreds of dollars over the 3-year period. Also ask about their policy on coverage lapses and automatic renewal options.
Need Help with Tennessee DUI & SR-22 Requirements?
An experienced Tennessee DUI attorney can help you understand SR-22 requirements, navigate license reinstatement, and potentially reduce penalties that triggered the SR-22 requirement.
Find a Tennessee DUI AttorneyRelated Resources
Sources & References
Official guidance on SR-22 filing requirements and procedures in Tennessee.
State legislation regarding financial responsibility requirements after DUI.
Consumer resources and insurance company information.
Disclaimer: This guide provides general information about SR-22 insurance requirements in Tennessee. Laws and requirements may change. Always verify current requirements with the Tennessee Department of Safety and consult with a licensed insurance agent or attorney for advice specific to your situation.