Best Cheap Car Insurance Companies for High-Risk Drivers in Tennessee

Enter your ZIP code to get started

Shield

Free. Simple. Secure.

Updated: April 21, 2025

Advertising & Editorial Disclosure

Insurers charge drivers with a history of serious violations and inexperienced teenage drivers higher car insurance premiums due to their likelihood of filing a claim. Tennessee drivers with violations and young drivers should compare quotes from various insurance companies to secure the best insurance rates.

State Farm is the best insurer in Tennessee for high-risk drivers and one that offers quality service and affordable car insurance rates. Based on our findings, it provides the cheapest high-risk auto insurance in the state. The average high-risk policyholder pays $843 per year, though your specific driver's profile will determine your rate.

Key Takeaways

blueCheck icon

In Tennessee, State Farm offers the cheapest car insurance for high-risk drivers with an annual premium of $843, followed by Erie as the runner-up with slightly higher rates.

blueCheck icon

State Farm is the best car insurance provider for high-risk drivers in Tennessee, earning a MoneyGeek score of 92 out of 100, with an average annual premium of $843.

blueCheck icon

State Farm is the cheapest car insurance provider in Tennessee for drivers with a DUI, offering an average annual premium of $820, and for teen drivers, with an average annual cost of $3,405.

Compare Auto Insurance Rates

Ensure you're getting the best rate for your auto insurance. Compare quotes from the top insurance companies.

Why do we need ZIP code?

High-risk drivers, such as those with tickets, DUI convictions, at-fault accidents, lapses in coverage or young drivers with little experience behind the wheel, may find it more challenging to obtain affordable car insurance.

Insurance for high-risk drivers tends to be costlier than for safe drivers because car insurance companies calculate your rate based on your risk level. The higher your chances of filing a claim, the higher your insurance premium. For example, if you are a high-risk driver in Tennessee, your auto insurance will cost 25% more than insurance for the average driver.

accident2 icon
WHAT EXACTLY IS A HIGH-RISK DRIVER?

Insurance companies don’t just look at traffic violations when categorizing drivers as high-risk, and a clean driving record may not necessarily mean a lower rate. Factors such as your credit score or the type of vehicle you drive may significantly affect your premiums. A past violation can also result in higher costs despite driving a safe vehicle and having good credit.

The following groups typically pay higher car insurance premiums:

  • Drivers with a history of traffic violations or at-fault accidents
  • Drivers with a DUI conviction
  • Drivers caught driving with a suspended or revoked license
  • Young drivers with a lack of driving experience
  • Drivers who drive sports cars or participate in drag racing
  • Drivers with bad credit or lapses in insurance coverage

Cheapest Car Insurance in Tennessee for High-Risk Drivers

MoneyGeek found State Farm to be Tennessee’s cheapest insurer for high-risk drivers. The average cost of a State Farm policy for high-risk drivers is $843 per year. By reading MoneyGeek's comprehensive review of State Farm's car insurance, you can learn more about its coverage, costs and benefits.

State Farm$843
Erie$994
GEICO$1,041
Progressive$1,114
Allstate$1,245
Travelers$1,459
Farmers$1,471
Nationwide$1,488
carInsurance icon
SR-22 INSURANCE

Some states require that motorists convicted of serious traffic offenses or found driving without a license or insurance carry SR-22 insurance. This document certifies that your insurance meets the required minimum in your state.

In Tennessee, SR-22 insurance is not mandatory, but a Tennessee-registered driver may have to file an SR-22 if convicted of DUI in a state that requires one.

Best Car Insurance in Tennessee for High-Risk Drivers

MoneyGeek ranks State Farm as the top high-risk auto insurance provider in Tennessee, with a score of 92 out of 100. Learn more about State Farm's average rates, customer service and coverage in our State Farm review.

Second in the state is Erie, which scored 84 out of 100. Compared to State Farm, its average annual premium is a bit higher. Check out MoneyGeek's review of Erie to learn more about the insurer's features.


1
ErieBest for High-Risk Drivers
Score:97

5/5

Affordability Rating

4.5/5

Satisfaction Rating

4.7/5

Claims Rating

4.5/5

Financial Stability Rating

Geek Quick Take
Geek Quick Take

In Tennessee, Erie offers the second-best high-risk car insurance at an average annual price of $994, 22% higher than the average price for clean drivers.

More About Erie

Erie offers discounts when you install airbags, anti-lock brakes and anti-theft systems in your vehicle. It also provides rental car and/or travel reimbursement, new car replacement, better car replacement and accident forgiveness. Young drivers who complete accredited driver training courses are also eligible for discounts. Erie has affordable policies for all types of drivers.

2
State Farm
Score:96

5/5

Affordability Rating

5/5

Satisfaction Rating

4.5/5

Claims Rating

5/5

Financial Stability Rating

Geek Quick Take
Geek Quick Take

A high-risk driver in Tennessee can get auto insurance from State Farm for $843 a year, on average. This rate is 11% higher than that for drivers with clean records.

More About State Farm

State Farm is available in 50 states, including Washington, D.C., and has affordable rates for most drivers. Customers can take advantage of various discounts, such as student and good driver discounts. State Farm also offers rideshare insurance to policyholders who work for ridesharing companies.

However, the insurer does not offer coverage for OEM, accident forgiveness, better replacement cars and gap insurance.

mglogo icon
MONEYGEEK EXPERT TIP

HIgh-risk Tennessee drivers who want quality coverage may have to pay more for their policies. The state does not offer a government program for Tennessee families and individuals with low incomes. Drivers with limited funds can consider a minimum coverage policy. Those who don’t drive often can also consider pay-per-mile policies.

Cheapest Car Insurance in Tennessee for Drivers With a DUI

Based on MoneyGeek's study, State Farm provides Tennessee’s cheapest car insurance for people with DUI convictions. The average annual cost of coverage is $820. We summarize the benefits and coverage options of State Farm auto insurance in our review.

USAA also offers high-risk car insurance to military members with DUIs in the state at affordable rates.

State Farm$820
Progressive$899
Erie$1,185
GEICO$1,229
Allstate$1,335
Farmers$1,554
Travelers$1,577
Nationwide$1,811
calendar icon
LOOK-BACK PERIODS

A look-back period is the length of time a DUI remains on your driving record. DUIs in Tennessee typically carry a ten-year look-back period. If you commit another DUI offense during this time, the courts consider past convictions when sentencing.

Cheapest Car Insurance in Tennessee for Teenage Drivers

According to MoneyGeek, State Farm is the cheapest high-risk insurer for teenage drivers in Tennessee. The average annual cost for teen drivers is $3,405, but actual rates may vary based on their specific age. Our review of State Farm provides more information about the insurer.

State Farm$3,405
GEICO$3,438
Nationwide$5,271
Allstate$5,337
Progressive$7,681
mglogo icon
MONEYGEEK EXPERT TIP

The cost of auto insurance is higher for teens and student drivers. Even so, MoneyGeek recommends purchasing a full coverage policy over the state minimum to ensure your finances are protected in the likely case of an accident. Compare quotes from multiple companies to find the most affordable auto insurance for students.

Cheapest Car Insurance in Tennessee for Drivers With Bad Credit

MoneyGeek’s study found that GEICO offers high-risk drivers with bad credit the lowest car insurance rates. The average cost of coverage for those with poor credit is $1,196, 37% higher than the $754 for drivers with good credit pay. MoneyGeek’s GEICO review provides further insight into the company.

GEICO1,19737%
mglogo icon
MONEYGEEK EXPERT TIP

Your credit score impacts your auto insurance rate in Tennessee. The lower your credit score, the higher your rate. Nevertheless, you can still acquire affordable auto insurance if you have bad credit. By comparing quotes from different insurers and shopping around, finding one within your budget is possible.

How Much Does Car Insurance Cost for High-Risk Drivers in Tennessee?

Insurance providers consider several factors when calculating car insurance rates, such as driving history and profile. For example, you will pay a higher premium if you are classified as a high-risk driver.

High-risk drivers typically pay $1,207 per year for auto insurance, while drivers with clean records pay $888, a difference of $318 per year.

Annual Car Insurance Cost in TN for Low-Risk vs. High-Risk Drivers

car2Colored
Annual Premium

Low-Risk Driver

$888
accident2
Annual Premium

High-Risk Driver

$1,207
In Tennessee, high-risk drivers pay:$319 more

This is 36% more expensive.

With our auto insurance calculator, high-risk drivers in Tennessee can customize quotes using variables such as their age, driving record and coverage level. Additionally, you can use our tool to identify the factors that influence your rates.

Car Insurance Calculator

MoneyGeek's car insurance calculator will give you a customized estimate of your auto insurance cost. It's free to use, requires no personal information and we won't send you any spam.

$161
High
$94
Average
$59
Low

Rates updated:

Apr 23, 2025

Insurance Carrier
MoneyGeek Score
Average Monthly
Payment
1
State Farm

State Farm

88
/of 100
$59
2
Farmers

Farmers

81
/of 100
$71
3
Nationwide

Nationwide

86
/of 100
$81
4
Auto-Owners Insurance Co

Auto-Owners Insurance Co

89
/of 100
$85
5
Travelers

Travelers

83
/of 100
$86
6
GEICO

GEICO

76
/of 100
$86
1
State Farm

State Farm

MoneyGeek Score
88
/of 100
Average Monthly Payment$59/mo
2
Farmers

Farmers

MoneyGeek Score
81
/of 100
Average Monthly Payment$71/mo
3
Nationwide

Nationwide

MoneyGeek Score
86
/of 100
Average Monthly Payment$81/mo
4
Auto-Owners Insurance Co

Auto-Owners Insurance Co

MoneyGeek Score
89
/of 100
Average Monthly Payment$85/mo
5
Travelers

Travelers

MoneyGeek Score
83
/of 100
Average Monthly Payment$86/mo
6
GEICO

GEICO

MoneyGeek Score
76
/of 100
Average Monthly Payment$86/mo
Your Next Step:

Get your real quotes from trusted insurance providers.

Your ZIP Code:

widget-location-pin

Tennessee

Shield

Free. Simple. Secure.

Shield Insurance
Why You Can Trust MoneyGeek

Although MoneyGeek partners with some of the companies we recommend, our content is written and reviewed by an independent team of writers, editors and licensed agents. Learn more about our editorial policies and expert editorial team.

Can You Still Get Car Insurance in Tennessee if Insurers Refuse to Insure You?

Insurers are privately owned and can refuse to insure high-risk drivers for numerous reasons. A residual automobile market policy is your best alternative if you cannot get standard automobile insurance. The Automobile Insurance Plan Service Office (AIPSO) has offered state-specific residual plans to high-risk drivers for 48 years.

Tennessee Automobile Insurance Plan

AIPSO's plans differ by state, and Tennessee’s plan is the Tennessee Automobile Insurance Plan. Insurance seekers with difficulty getting coverage are matched with insurers willing to offer coverage. Auto insurers in Tennessee share the risks associated with the Tennessee Automobile Insurance Plan.

    building icon

    Office Hours

    Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–4 p.m. CT

    subscribe icon

    Email

    southeast@aipso.com

    smartphone icon

    Phone

    (800) 301-6477

    other icon

    Fax

    (800) 677-7247

    business icon

    Mailing Address

    Southeastern Region, P.O. Box 6530, Providence, RI 02940-6530

Compare Auto Insurance Rates

Ensure you're getting the best rate for your auto insurance. Compare quotes from the top insurance companies.

Why do we need ZIP code?

Frequently Asked Questions

When choosing a high-risk auto insurance company in Tennessee, you should consider several factors. MoneyGeek answered several questions about high-risk auto insurance in the state to help you find a policy that suits your needs.

Which car insurance company is best for high-risk drivers in Tennessee?

How much does car insurance in Tennessee cost for high-risk drivers?

Who do insurers classify as a high-risk driver?

Where do I get car insurance coverage in Tennessee if insurers reject my application?

Methodology

MoneyGeek calculated average rates using full coverage car insurance policies with 100/300/100 liability insurance and comprehensive and collision coverage with a $1,000 deductible. Minimum coverage car insurance policy rates were calculated based on each state’s minimum car insurance requirement.

To calculate rates for high-risk drivers, MoneyGeek averaged the premiums insurance companies charge for three of the most common driving violations: speeding, at-fault accident and DUI.

To determine the best car insurance company for high-risk drivers, MoneyGeek scored companies based on affordability, customer satisfaction and complaints — obtained from J.D. Power surveys and NAIC complaint scores — and financial strength ratings as calculated by AM Best. Affordability received the greatest weighting in our calculations.

About Mark Fitzpatrick

Mark Fitzpatrick headshot

Mark Fitzpatrick, a Licensed Property and Casualty Insurance Producer, is MoneyGeek's resident Personal Finance Expert. With over five years of experience analyzing the insurance market, he conducts original research and creates tailored content for all types of buyers. His insights have been featured in publications like CNBC, NBC News and Mashable.

Fitzpatrick holds a master’s degree in economics and international relations from Johns Hopkins University and a bachelor’s degree from Boston College. He's also a five-time Jeopardy champion!

Passionate about economics and insurance, he aims to promote transparency in financial topics and empower others to make confident money decisions.

Read Full Bio »
sources

MoneyGeek Address:1325 Howard Ave, Suite 338
Burlingame, CA 94010

MoneyGeek Phone:904-878-4335

About MoneyGeekPressPrivacy PolicyTerms of UseSitemap
Copyright © 2025 MoneyGeek.com. All Rights Reserved