Compare car insurance in Tennessee

Tennessee is a fun state to drive through with its rolling landscapes, lush farmland, low mountain passes and bustling cities like Memphis and Nashville. But if you want to get behind the wheel in this state, you need to understand the rules and regulations of driving on Tennessee roads. Compare minimum coverage requirements and driving laws in Tennessee and find the best cheap car insurance for you.

Our top pick: Progressive

Discover coverage that’s broader than competitors, valuable discounts up to 30% off and perks like shrinking deductibles that reward no claims.

• Broad coverage, including for custom car parts or ridesharing
• Transparent pricing tools that help you buy within budget
• Accident forgiveness on small claims or for staying claim-free
• Stack a variety of discounts for multiple cars, autopay or homeownership

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• Top auto insurance companies in Tennessee
• List of insurance companies in Tennessee

Compare Tennessee car insurance providers

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Name	Product	Roadside assistance	New car protection	Accident forgiveness	Safe driver discount	Available states
Progressive		Optional			30%	All 50 states	Discover coverage that’s broader than competitors, valuable discounts up to 30% off and perks like shrinking deductibles that reward no claims.	Get quotes More Info	Compare	loading Fetching your data...
Esurance					40%	All states except AK, DE, HI, MT, NH, VT, WY	Take advantage of this online company's low base rates and mobile tools like app-based telematics and teen safe driver programs.	Get quotes More Info	Compare	loading Fetching your data...
Gabi		Optional	Optional		55%	All 50 states	Upload your current policy info and get quotes from 20+ companies who could get you a better rate.	Get quotes More Info	Compare	loading Fetching your data...
Liberty Mutual		Optional			30%	All 50 states	Earn free accident forgiveness after five years claims-free and customize your policy anytime online at the tap of a button.	Get quotes More Info	Compare	loading Fetching your data...
Allstate					13%	All 50 states	Your dedicated agent can help you find the best savings with multiple discounts and rewards programs.	Get quotes More Info	Compare	loading Fetching your data...
Geico		Optional			26%	All 50 states	Stack discounts up to 40% off already low premiums, with convenient mobile services like proof of insurance and claims.	More Info	Compare	loading Fetching your data...
Farmers					15%	All 50 states	Say hello to a local Farmers agent who can help you find the best savings from a long list of coverage options.	More Info	Compare	loading Fetching your data...

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Most popular Tennessee auto insurance companies list

Company	Direct premiums written (billions)	Market share
State Farm	$943,143	21.8%
Tennessee Farmers Mutual	$710,174	16.40%
Geico	$402,823	9.30%
Progressive	$372,374	8.60%
Allstate	$266,411	6.20%
USAA	$236,693	5.50%
Liberty Mutual	$220,833	5.10%
Nationwide	$142,316	3.30%
Erie	$127,053	2.90%
National General	$95,684	2.20%

Average car insurance costs in Tennessee

When it comes to how much you’ll pay for car insurance, Tennessee was a bit less than the national average of $1,300 in 2017, with most drivers paying under $1,200 annually for coverage.

The most expensive areas to insure a car are typically the state’s big cities of Nashville and Memphis due to the additional risk for car accidents, vandalism and theft. In smaller towns and rural areas of the state like the Tri-Cities area, you’re likely to find lower insurance rates because of a decreased risk of damage.

While you can expect to pay something in the ballpark of that $1,200 average, you could also end up paying significantly less if you qualify for discounts and follow our tips for lowering your payments.

Which city has the cheapest car insurance in Tennessee?

Of Tennessee’s largest cities, Hendersonville has the cheapest rates and Nashville has the most expensive car insurance rates. Nashville drivers could face rates 3 times more than Hendersonville drivers.

• Antioch
• Nashville
• Clarksville
• Hendersonville
• Brentwood

Tennessee minimum requirements for car insurance

To legally drive in Tennessee, you’ll need liability insurance that includes at least:

• $25,000 for each injury or death per accident
• $50,000 for total injuries or deaths per accident
• $15,000 for property damage per accident

Can I get SR-22 insurance in Tennessee?

Yes, you can file an SR-22 in Tennessee. An SR-22 is a form your insurance provider files with the state that proves you have the minimum insurance needed to get behind the wheel. In Tennessee, you’re usually required to file this form if you’re convicted of a DUI, have an illegal lapse in insurance coverage or accumulate too many violation points on your driving record. It mandates a specific level of insurance coverage, typically for a period of three years.

Bottom line

To drive in Tennessee, you’ll need to either purchase a conventional car insurance policy or prove your financial responsibility with a large cash deposit to the state. Make sure you understand the terms and limitations of your policy before you get behind the wheel to explore everything this incredible state has to offer.

To learn more about types of coverage, getting better rates and nationwide rules and regulations, read our comprehensive guide to car insurance.

Frequently asked questions about Tennessee car insurance

• Can my insurance provider cancel my policy after I file a claim?

  Yes. Most car insurance providers reserve the right to cancel coverage when it comes time to renew your policy. If you’re concerned about losing coverage after a claim, talk to your provider.

• Do I have to use the auto shop my insurance provider recommends?

  No. But your provider will probably only pay market average rates for parts and labor. If you choose a pricier body shop or mechanic, you could end up paying at least part of the final bill out of your own pocket.

• Will my liability insurance cover a windshield repair?

  Not likely. Your provider may waive the deductible for a glass repair, depending on your level of coverage, but for full coverage, you likely need to carry comprehensive car insurance.

• Will my liability cover me if I'm sued by another driver after an accident?

  Yes — that’s part of what liability insurance is for. Often there’s no limit as to how much your insurance provider will pay for legal defense costs. When it comes to the judgment and award amount, however, you’re covered only up to the limits of your policy. Excess beyond that might have to come out of your pocket.

  Keep in mind, however, that your insurance company can refuse to represent you in court if you’re accused of intentionally damaging property or injuring someone.

• Will insurance cover me for hitting a deer or a pothole?

  Yes, if you have comprehensive coverage, your insurance will cover you for damages to your car that weren’t caused by a collision.