Beginner’s Guide to DUI Insurance: SR‑22, FR‑44 & More

FR-44 and SR-22 insurance explained. Learn the key differences between the two types of high-risk auto insurance for DUI, how they affect your coverage, and how much they typically cost.

“DUI insurance” is often misunderstood. It doesn’t refer to a special kind of policy, but to the SR-22 or FR-44 form your insurer files with the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). It proves you carry at least the state's minimum auto liability coverage. Without reinstating or maintaining your license, you could face suspension and fines.

If your license is suspended due to a driving infraction, failing to file the SR-22 form or FR-44 form by the deadline delays license reinstatement. This informational blog shares what you need to know about DUI insurance, but it is not considered legal advice. Always consult a qualified DUI attorney to assist with any drunk driving charge you may be facing. If you have immediate questions, call a Breathe Easy Insurance Solutions licensed agent at (833) 786-0237.

Is DUI Insurance the Same as Car Insurance?

It’s car insurance with an SR-22 form or FR-44 form that meets specific state, legal, and/or administrative coverage mandates. You must purchase car insurance and ask your licensed agent to include an SR-22 or FR-44 filing for you. Although DUI insurance is not an industry term, this combination of auto insurance with an SR-22 form or FR-44 form is often what people mean when they search for it.

The SR-22 or FR-44 filing that is part of DUI insurance helps the state monitor high-risk drivers and make sure you’re financially responsible for accidents you may cause while driving. Whether you own a car or not, to keep your license in many states, you must maintain DUI insurance coverage and keep your SR-22 or FR-44 filing active.

A DUI on your record is likely to flag you as high-risk and your insurance at renewal will likely come with higher rates. This will raise the price of your car insurance premium. It’s also not a guarantee that it will cover all the expenses associated with an accident, but it will cover as much as the state requires.

Not all carriers offer SR-22 filings. If you have a new SR-22/FR-44 requirement, consider shopping around for a carrier that can meet your needs. Breathe Easy Insurance Solutions licensed agents can help you find surprisingly affordable rates. Give us a call at (833) 786-0237.

SR-22 Form: What Is It and When Do You Need It?

An SR-22 form is a requirement in many states that confirms that you carry the minimum auto liability coverage required by state law. You may receive notice that you must have an SR-22 form on file if you’re convicted of:

• Driving under the influence (DUI or DWI)
• OUI (operating under the influence) or OWI / OVI (operating a vehicle while intoxicated)
• Driving without enough insurance/violation of financial responsibility laws
• Reckless driving
• Multiple traffic violations

Once filed, the SR-22 must remain active for a set period; often three years. If your policy lapses during that time, your insurer must notify the DMV, which could result in immediate license suspension.

Select your state on the Breathe Easy website to find out if an SR-22 is required in your area.

FR-44 Certificate: What Sets It Apart (and When It Applies)

While the SR-22 is required for certain violations in Florida, the FR-44 is a separate filing used specifically for DUI-related offenses in Florida and Virginia. It carries higher liability limits than an SR-22.

The elevated limits associated with FR-44 reflect the severity of the offense and the increased risk to public safety. In some cases, they also come with stricter compliance rules and longer filing periods.

FR-44-compliant policies can cost significantly more than an SR-22-compliant or standard auto policy.

Breathe Easy Insurance Solutions can help you understand how FR-44 insurance requirements apply to your situation.

Non-Owner SR-22 Policies: Do You Need One?

If you don’t own a car or have regular access to a vehicle but need to comply with an SR-22 requirement to reinstate your license, a non-owner SR-22 policy can help by providing liability insurance coverage when you drive a borrowed or rented vehicle. It satisfies the SR-22 filing requirement without the need for full auto coverage.

Non-owner SR-22 policies are typically more affordable than standard full-coverage auto insurance and help you avoid penalties for non-compliance while working toward license reinstatement.

SR-22 vs FR-44: Key Differences

An SR-22 and an FR-44 may sound like the same thing. But here are some notable differences:

Liability

• SR-22: Meets state minimums (e.g., $10,000/$20,000/$10,000 in Florida).
• FR-44: Requires significantly higher limits (e.g., $100,000/$300,000/$50,000 in Florida).

State Regulations

• SR-22: Used in many states for various driving infractions, including DUIs in most states.
• FR-44: Only used in Florida and Virginia for DUI-related offenses.

Costs

• Filing fees are low for both SR-22 and FR-44 (from one-time fees of $25- $50 to monthly fees of $15–$25), but your insurance premiums will likely increase at policy renewal time due to your higher risk status.
• FR-44 policies cost more because of elevated coverage requirements.
• Non-owner policies are generally cheaper but still meet filing needs.

How to Choose a Qualified Provider

Navigating DUI insurance can be overwhelming, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the process. Breathe Easy Insurance Solutions specializes in helping high-risk drivers:

• Understand state-specific requirements
• Request quick SR-22 or FR-44 filings
• Find affordable policies, even for non-owners
• Avoid lapses and stay compliant

Our team works directly with DUI-forgiving carriers and offers personalized guidance to help you get back on the road. Call a Breathe Easy Insurance Solutions licensed agent at (833) 786-0237 to get started.

DUI Insurance Filing Periods and Penalties

Many states require SR-22 for three years, though some may vary depending on the offense. FR-44 states also require three years of filing. If your policy lapses, your insurer must notify the DMV, and your license may be suspended immediately. Worse, your compliance period may restart, extending your obligation and increasing costs.

A lapse in coverage can also affect your insurance rates. Insurers may view you as a higher risk, which could result in even higher premiums. To avoid this, make sure your policy stays active and renew it on time.

Not sure if you're compliant? Be sure to check your SR-22 status regularly to stay law-abiding.

How Much Does DUI Insurance Cost?

The cost of DUI insurance depends on several factors:

• Your driving history
• Type of policy (owner vs non-owner)
• Required coverage limits

While the SR-22, FR-44, or non-owner filing fee is minimal, the real cost comes from elevated insurance rates at policy renewal time. With DUI insurance requirements, you could expect to pay two to three times more than others with clean driving records. FR-44 policies, in particular, can cost thousands more annually due to their higher liability requirements.

Tips to Keep Premiums Lower After a DUI

Staying proactive can help you lower your costs over time. While your car insurance with SR-22 rates can increase after a DUI, there are ways to reduce the impact:

• Maintain continuous SR-22 or FR-44-compliant coverage.
• Choose a non-owner policy if you don’t own or have regular access to a vehicle.
• Compare quotes for the best combination of coverage and price.
• Complete a defensive driving or alcohol education course to qualify for discounts.
• Avoid further violations during the filing period to help rebuild your driving record.

Speak with a DUI Insurance Specialist

Whether you’re trying to reinstate your license or avoid further penalties after an SR-22 or FR-44 requirement, DUI insurance compliance is crucial to your success.

Let us help you regain your driving privileges and get your SR-22 quote in under 15 minutes. Call a Breathe Easy Insurance Solutions licensed agent at (833) 786-0237.