Life stages · Middle Tennessee
New or Teen Driver in the House? What to Know
Handing over the keys is a big moment. Tennessee’s Graduated Driver License program moves teens through steps, and your car insurance needs attention along the way. Here’s what families should know.
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What changes
- Tennessee teens can get a learner permit at 15 after passing written and vision exams, and must hold it for 180 days before moving to an intermediate restricted license at 16, per the Tennessee Department of Safety.
- Intermediate drivers have passenger and nighttime limits set by the state.
- Inexperienced drivers raise the chance of a claim, which affects pricing with many carriers.
- A crash caused by your teen could put your family’s savings at risk.
Coverages to review
- Car insurance Ask your insurer when to add a permit holder and how a newly licensed teen should be listed. Learn more about car insurance.
- Umbrella insurance Many families look at an umbrella when a teen starts driving. Learn more about umbrella insurance.
- Personal umbrella policy Extra liability above your auto limits. Learn more about personal umbrella policy.
- Uninsured motorist coverage Protects your teen if an uninsured driver hits them. Learn more about uninsured motorist coverage.
Your checklist
- Call your agent when your teen gets a permit to ask how the carrier handles it.
- Review liability limits; many families raise them.
- Decide which car the teen will drive most and list it correctly.
- Ask about good student and driver training discounts, which vary by carrier.
- Ask whether a telematics program is available.
- Set family driving rules (phones away, passenger limits).
Other life stages
Life rarely changes one thing at a time. See all life stages, or look up a term in our insurance glossary.
Frequently asked questions
When do I add my teen to my car insurance in Tennessee?
Rules vary by carrier. Some want permit holders listed, others not until licensing. Call your agent when your teen gets a permit.
What are Tennessee’s teen driving rules?
The Department of Safety’s GDL program starts with a learner permit at 15, held for 180 days, then an intermediate restricted license at 16 with passenger and nighttime limits.
Will adding a teen raise my rates?
It often does, because new drivers have less experience. Discounts like good student may help, depending on the carrier.
Let’s update your coverage together
Eric can review your current policies, explain what changes at this stage, and help you shop options from more than one carrier. Call or text 615-808-1105.
Coverage descriptions are general information only; your policy documents determine actual coverage. Availability varies by carrier.
Eric Henry, licensed insurance producer, NPN 3953606 · Affiliated with Hutsenpiller Insurance. Coverage subject to policy terms and carrier approval.