Home / Data by state / Tennessee
SR-22 in Tennessee: Fees, Minimum Coverage and How Long
The short answer
In Tennessee, an SR-22 is a certificate your insurance company files with the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security to prove you carry at least the state minimum liability insurance of $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident for injuries, and $25,000 for property damage (25/50/25). You must keep it in force for the length of your suspension or revocation; if the policy is canceled early, the insurer reports it and your license can be suspended again. Tennessee charges a $50 state SR-22 fee on top of the reinstatement fee, which ranges from $20 to $165 depending on the violation, and your insurer may add its own filing charge.
At a glance
| Uses SR-22 | Yes |
|---|---|
| Minimum liability | 25/50/25 |
| How long | The length of your suspension or revocation |
| State reinstatement fee | $20 to $165 depending on the violation, plus a $50 state SR-22 fee when an SR-22 is required |
| Who files it | Your insurance company |
What else to know in Tennessee
Tennessee is the only state in our data that charges its own SR-22 fee: $50, on top of a reinstatement fee of $20 to $165 depending on the violation ($65 in a financial responsibility case). Extra fees of $25 or $75 apply if you failed to file a crash report or surrender your license.
Steps
- Get a liability policy of at least 25/50/25 from an insurer licensed in Tennessee and tell them you need an SR-22. Not every insurer provides it.
- The insurer files the SR-22 with the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security. You cannot file it yourself.
- Pay the state's fees on your suspension notice. State fees: $20 to $165 depending on the violation, plus a $50 state SR-22 fee when an SR-22 is required.
- Keep the policy active for the period your state requires (the length of your suspension or revocation). Before you cancel, confirm with the state that your requirement has ended; canceling early can suspend your license again.
FAQ
How long do I need the SR-22 in Tennessee?
The length of your suspension or revocation, under Tennessee's rules (see the sources below).
Does Tennessee charge a fee for the SR-22?
Yes. Tennessee charges a $50 state SR-22 fee on top of the reinstatement fee, which ranges from $20 to $165 depending on the violation, and your insurer may add its own filing charge.
Can I get an SR-22 without a car?
Yes. Some insurers offer non-owner SR-22 policies for drivers without a vehicle. Coverage depends on the policy; ask the insurer.
What liability limits does Tennessee require?
$25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident for injuries, and $25,000 for property damage (25/50/25). Some states also require other coverage, such as personal injury protection or uninsured motorist coverage; check with the state agency.