Official Tennessee Guide

Tennessee SR-22 Insurance

A complete roadmap to satisfying Tennessee DOSHS requirements. Compare rates, understand liability limits, and get your license reinstated today.

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Min. Liability

25/50/15

$25k BI / $50k Total / $15k PD

Mandate Term

3-5 Years

Required from date of reinstatement

Filing Fee

~$15 - $25

One-time administrative cost

How Tennessee SR-22 Filing Works

In Tennessee, the SR-22 is a "Certificate of Financial Responsibility." It is a digital document filed by your insurance carrier directly with the Tennessee Department of Safety & Homeland Security (DOSHS). It serves as legal evidence that you maintain the state-mandated minimum liability insurance (25/50/15) required to restore and maintain your driving privileges.

The "Re-Suspension" Trap

If your policy cancels or lapses for even one day, your carrier is legally required to file an SR-26 Notice. This triggers an immediate suspension of your license by the DOSHS and may reset your mandatory filing period.

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Who Needs to File in TN?

DUI Conviction: Driving Under the Influence is the primary reason for a mandatory SR-22 filing.
Driving Without Insurance: Being caught operating a vehicle without valid liability coverage or being involved in an uninsured accident.
Unsatisfied Judgments: Failure to pay court-ordered damages resulting from a motor vehicle accident.
Frequent Violations: Accumulating too many points or serious moving violations within a short timeframe.

Don't Own a Car in Tennessee?

You can still get reinstated! A Tennessee Non-Owner SR-22 Policy covers you as a driver for any vehicle you borrow or rent. It satisfies the Tennessee DOSHS requirement and is typically much cheaper than a standard owner's policy.

Read our full guide on Non-Owner policies

The TN Reinstatement Timeline

Verify Requirements

Access the Tennessee DOSHS 'e-Services' portal to verify your license status and specific restoration requirements.

Secure SR-22

Purchase a policy with 25/50/15 limits. Your insurance carrier will electronically transmit the certificate to the DOSHS office in Nashville.

Pay Reinstatement Fee

Pay the mandatory restoration fee (typically $65-$150 depending on the offense) online or at a local Driver Service Center.

License Reissued

Once the SR-22 is logged and fees are processed, your driving status is officially restored and you can apply for a duplicate license.

The Cost of Non-Compliance

Driving while suspended or letting your SR-22 lapse carries severe penalties in Tennessee:

First Offense

Immediate Re-Suspension

Court Fines

Up to $500 + Surcharges

SR-22 Period

Mandatory Filing Clock Resets

Legal Risk

Potential Vehicle Impoundment

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Tennessee Filing FAQs

How much is the filing fee in Tennessee?

Most insurance carriers charge a one-time fee of $15-$25 to electronically file the certificate with the Tennessee DOSHS. This is separate from your monthly premium.

Can I drive out of state with a TN SR-22?

Yes. Your Tennessee SR-22 is valid nationwide. You must maintain the Tennessee-specific limits (25/50/15) to remain compliant with state law.

What is the difference between SR-22 and normal insurance?

An SR-22 is not insurance; it is a certificate of financial responsibility attached to your policy that notifies the state if your coverage lapses.

Can I get a Non-Owner policy in TN?

Yes, Tennessee allows Non-Owner SR-22 filings. It is often the most cost-effective way to restore your license if you do not own a vehicle.

Will my license be suspended if I miss a payment?

Yes. Tennessee law requires insurers to notify the DOSHS immediately (via SR-26) if your policy lapses, which triggers an instant automatic suspension.

How do I remove the SR-22 after 3 years?

Once your mandatory period expires, contact the Tennessee DOSHS to confirm the requirement is fulfilled. You can then instruct your insurer to remove the filing.

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