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Last Updated on January 1, 2026
Car insurance premiums vary widely across Tennessee. Drivers in higher-traffic (and higher-theft) areas like Nashville and Memphis often pay more than drivers in smaller towns and rural ZIP codes.
Rates have also risen nationwide in recent years. Depending on your ZIP code, driving history, vehicle, deductibles, and coverage choices, many Tennessee drivers pay roughly $2,000–$2,500 per year for full coverage (give or take). The best way to find a reasonable price is still the same: compare quotes from several insurers and make sure you’re comparing the same coverages.
Below are top picks for Tennessee auto insurance, plus the state’s minimum requirements, what can happen if you drive uninsured, and how tickets/accidents/DUIs can affect your rate.
Tennessee drivers can choose from national carriers, strong regional companies, and member-based insurers. The “best” option depends on what you value most—price, claims handling, local agent support, or specialized coverage. Here are ten solid places to start your quote comparison:
If you’re eligible, USAA is often one of the best values in Tennessee thanks to strong customer satisfaction and competitive pricing. Start here if you want a premium experience and you qualify through military membership. See common savings opportunities in our guide to USAA auto insurance discounts.
GEICO is a go-to for many Tennessee drivers who want a fast online quote process and plenty of ways to save. It’s especially worth a quote if you’re comfortable managing your policy digitally. Here’s a breakdown of GEICO car insurance discounts.
Erie is a strong regional insurer known for service and straightforward coverage options. It can be a great fit if you prefer working with an agent and want solid claims support. Learn more about Erie insurance discounts and where you may be able to save.
State Farm is a popular choice for Tennessee drivers who want a large local agent network and a wide range of coverage add-ons. It’s also worth quoting if you want bundling options. Here are common ways to save with State Farm car insurance discounts.
Tennessee Farm Bureau is a strong in-state option, especially for drivers who like local support and potential member perks. It can be particularly competitive outside major metros. Read our Tennessee Farm Bureau auto insurance review to see what it offers.
Auto-Owners is a good pick for drivers who want a traditional agent-based experience and strong coverage flexibility. Rates can be competitive for certain profiles, especially with multiple policies. Explore Auto-Owners insurance discounts to see what might apply to you.
Progressive is well-known for flexible pricing tools and can be a smart quote for drivers who want to customize coverages and deductibles. It’s also commonly considered by drivers who have a less-than-perfect record. See potential savings with Progressive auto insurance discounts.
Farmers can be a strong option if you want an agent relationship and a menu of coverage add-ons. It’s especially worth comparing if you like bundling home and auto. Here are common savings options through Farmers auto insurance discounts.
Nationwide is a solid all-around choice with a broad lineup of coverage options and discount opportunities. It’s worth quoting if you want bundling, telematics, or a mix of online and agent support. See common ways to save with Nationwide car insurance discounts.
Allstate is a large insurer with strong optional coverages and lots of local agent availability in many areas. It can be a good fit if you want more guidance in choosing coverage. Here are typical savings opportunities with Allstate car insurance discounts.
Tennessee generally requires drivers to maintain liability insurance (or another acceptable form of financial responsibility). You can learn the basics in our guide on Tennessee auto insurance requirements.
Per the Tennessee Department of Revenue, the required minimum limits are:
You’ll often see this written as a 25/50/25 policy. Many drivers choose higher limits for better protection—especially if they have significant assets, commute daily, or drive in higher-traffic areas.
If you lease or finance your vehicle, your lender will usually require additional coverages (typically collision and comprehensive). Even when it’s not required, “full coverage” can be worth pricing out if replacing your car would be financially difficult.
Driving uninsured is risky financially and can lead to fines, registration problems, and suspension issues. Tennessee also uses an electronic insurance verification system, and unresolved notices can lead to registration “stops” and other consequences.
If you’re unsure how long you can safely go without coverage, read this guide: How long can you be without car insurance? In most cases, avoiding a lapse is one of the easiest ways to keep rates from jumping.
And if you’re involved in a crash while uninsured, the costs can add up quickly. Here’s what typically happens after an accident without insurance.
For official guidance on financial responsibility issues, penalties, and how to clear certain stops, review Tennessee’s financial responsibility resources at TN Department of Safety & Homeland Security.
A DUI can push you into a higher-risk tier, which usually means higher premiums and fewer carrier options. Some companies will also require extra steps (like special filings) before they’ll write or reinstate coverage.
If you’re trying to estimate the impact, start here: How much does insurance go up after a DUI? Then shop multiple quotes—pricing swings can be huge between carriers for the same driver.
At-fault accidents often trigger a surcharge at renewal, and some insurers are much stricter than others. If you’ve had a recent accident, comparing multiple carriers is especially important.
For a deeper look at how insurers typically treat crashes, see what happens with insurance if you are at fault in an accident. If you’ve had multiple incidents, this guide on car insurance quotes for drivers with bad driving records can help you set expectations before you start quoting.
A single minor ticket might not move the needle much—especially if you otherwise have a clean driving record. But multiple tickets, a major speeding conviction, or a pattern of violations can raise premiums quickly.
If you’re shopping with violations on your record, use this strategy guide: How to find cheap auto insurance quotes even if you have a speeding ticket.
Young drivers (especially teens and early-20s drivers) typically pay some of the highest rates because insurers see them as higher risk. The best ways to reduce costs are choosing the right vehicle, maintaining continuous coverage, and qualifying for discounts (good student, driver training, telematics, and multi-car policies).
For more saving strategies and insurer comparisons, see our guide to cheap car insurance for young drivers.
In many states (including Tennessee), insurers may use credit-based insurance scores as one factor in pricing. That means a lower score can translate into noticeably higher premiums—even with the same driving record.
If you’re trying to understand how much this matters and what you can do about it, start here: Does credit score affect car insurance rates?
An SR-22 is not a special type of insurance—it’s a filing that proves you meet Tennessee’s financial responsibility requirements. Your insurer files it with the state on your behalf when it’s required (often after certain violations, suspensions, or reinstatement situations).
You may need an SR-22 after driving uninsured, after certain suspensions, or if you repeatedly let car insurance lapse. The required filing period varies—learn what’s typical here: How long does an SR-22 last?
If you’re having trouble getting approved with standard carriers, you may need to shop a high-risk auto insurance provider until you rebuild your record.
For official SR-22 guidance in Tennessee, see: Do I need SR-22 insurance?
The best car insurance in Tennessee depends on your ZIP code, driving record, vehicle, and how much protection you want beyond the state minimums. Start by comparing quotes from at least three to five insurers, then make sure you’re comparing the same liability limits, deductibles, and add-ons.
If you want the fastest path to savings, focus on: higher deductibles (if you can afford them), bundling policies, verifying every discount, and avoiding coverage lapses. Then choose the insurer that offers the best balance of price and claims support for your situation.
