Tennessee Auto Insurance — Minimum Coverage & Rates
Tennessee requires 25/50/25 liability coverage and is an at-fault state.
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Tennessee 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
Source: state DMV, insurance department and statute records, verified July 2026
State Requirements
Tennessee operates under a traditional tort liability system where the at-fault driver is responsible for damages. The state requires proof of financial responsibility through the Financial Responsibility Law, enforced by the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security. Tennessee mandates electronic verification of insurance coverage — law enforcement and registration offices can instantly confirm your active policy status through the state database.
Bodily Injury Liability
Property Damage Liability
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage
Cost Overview
$42–$60/mo
Typical monthly rate in Tennessee, minimum-coverage policies
Rate data: NerdWallet, ValuePenguin and Insurify, 2026
What Affects Your Rate
- Shelby County (Memphis) shows elevated rates reflecting the metro area's above-average vehicle theft rate — approximately 3.2 vehicles stolen per 1,000 residents
- Tornado Alley positioning across Middle Tennessee drives comprehensive claims during spring severe weather season, affecting statewide comprehensive pricing
Find the Lowest Rate That Still Protects You
Find Your Lowest RateCoverage Types
Liability Insurance
Tennessee's required 25/50/15 coverage protects other people and property when you cause an accident, but leaves you personally responsible for amounts exceeding those limits. A serious accident with multiple injuries can generate $200,000+ in medical bills — your assets and wages are exposed to lawsuits for anything above $50,000.
Uninsured Motorist Coverage
Pays your medical bills and lost wages when an uninsured or hit-and-run driver injures you. Since Tennessee doesn't require this coverage, many minimum-coverage drivers skip it to save $8–$15/month — creating a gap when approximately 18% of Tennessee drivers carry no insurance.
Collision Coverage
Repairs or replaces your vehicle after an accident regardless of fault, minus your deductible. This coverage typically costs $40–$80/month with a $500–$1,000 deductible.
Comprehensive Coverage
Covers non-collision damage from theft, hail, fallen trees, animal strikes, and vandalism. Tennessee's spring tornado season and deer population make this relevant even in rural areas, but it's not legally required.
Full Coverage
Combines Tennessee's required liability minimums with collision, comprehensive, and typically uninsured motorist protection. The $95–$115/month cost difference from minimum coverage only makes financial sense if your vehicle is worth more than $8,000–$10,000.