Updated: June 24, 2025
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FR-44 is not insurance. It's a certificate showing proof of financial responsibility required for drivers in Florida and Virginia convicted of serious traffic violations, such as DUI or DWI.
You'll need to pay between $15 and $25 when filing for an FR-44. You may also need to pay reinstatement fees.
Car insurance costs also increase for drivers who need to file an FR-44 form, with average annual rates at $3,448 in Florida and $2,873 in Virginia.
An FR-44 is a certificate of financial responsibility that proves you carry higher liability insurance coverage after serious driving violations. Only Florida and Virginia require this specialized document for drivers convicted of driving under the influence (DUI), driving while intoxicated (DWI) or other major infractions.
An FR-44 form is a legal document your insurance company files with your state's Department of Motor Vehicles. Unlike regular insurance certificates, this form directly connects your coverage to your driving privileges. The FR-44 isn't insurance itself. It's attached to a regular auto insurance policy that meets enhanced liability requirements.
The form establishes legal accountability, which means you can't cancel coverage or let it lapse without immediate license suspension. Your insurer must notify the state immediately if your policy is canceled, lapses or falls below the required coverage levels, and driving without proper FR-44 certification can result in criminal penalties. The form contains essential information, including your name, driver's license number, policy effective dates and coverage limits. It also specifies the violations that triggered the FR-44 requirement and the duration for which you must maintain this filing.
The FR-44 and SR-22 share several similarities. For example, both aren't insurance policies but certificates required of high-risk drivers. The SR-22 is more common and used by most states. Except for Virginia and Florida, SR-22 filings are necessary for drivers convicted of severe traffic offenses.
In comparison, an FR-44 is something only used in Florida and Virginia. It's specifically required for drivers convicted of violations like DUI or DWI. These two states also have SR-22 requirements, but those are necessary for drivers with less serious offenses, like having too many points on their licenses or causing accidents while uninsured.
While both FR-44 and SR-22 forms serve similar purposes as certificates of financial responsibility, they differ significantly in coverage requirements and geographic availability. Here are the key differences between SR-22 and FR-44 car insurance filings you need to know:
Between these two insurance filings, the SR-22 is more common. It's because all states have it.
The FR-44 is also an insurance form filing, but the only two states with the FR-44 are Florida and Virginia.
Outside of Florida and Virginia, an SR-22 serves the same purpose as the FR-44. Note that both states also have SR-22s, but they're for drivers with less severe traffic offenses.
Despite being referred to as FR-44 insurance, it's not a type of coverage. The FR-44 is a certificate that proves financial responsibility for high-risk drivers.
Some states require SR-22 filings for as little as one year, while FR-44 requirements span three years or more, depending on the violation.
Most drivers in Florida and Virginia don't need to have an FR-44. This certificate is only for high-risk drivers with specific, severe traffic offenses. For example, if you get into an accident while driving uninsured, you'd be required to file an SR-22, not an FR-44. Drivers who need to carry an FR-44 have committed the following violations:
Other violations that may require FR-44 filing include vehicular manslaughter, hit-and-run accidents involving injury or death, and accumulating too many points on your driving record within a specific timeframe. Some drug-related driving offenses also trigger FR-44 requirements. If you want to have your license reinstated after one of these offenses, you'll need to file an FR-44.
Generally, if you have a conviction for a violation that warrants an FR-44 in Florida or Virginia outside of those two states, you'll need to get SR-22 coverage. However, if you live in Florida or Virginia, you may also need to have an SR-22 if you commit less severe offenses.
In most states, an SR-22 is necessary if you're caught driving without a license. Similarly, you'll need an SR-22 form if you get caught driving without insurance coverage or with a suspended license. Some states also require SR-22 filings for drivers who have had their licenses suspended or revoked for non-driving-related offenses, such as failure to pay child support or outstanding traffic fines. Filing for SR-22 requirements leads to a more expensive car insurance premium. The specific requirements and duration vary by state, but most SR-22 filings must be maintained for one to five years, depending on the violation and your state's regulations.
FR-44 requirements differ between Florida and Virginia, which are the only two states that mandate this certificate. Florida requires higher liability limits and includes PIP coverage, while Virginia mandates uninsured motorist protection with lower overall limits. Both states require three-year filing periods, with the clock resetting if you're convicted of another qualifying offense during this time.
Understanding your state's requirements helps you secure proper coverage and avoid costly compliance issues.
Florida requires FR-44 certificates for drivers convicted of DUI or certain serious driving violations. You must maintain these minimum coverage limits:
Florida's FR-44 requirements are notably higher than standard state minimums of $10,000/$20,000/$10,000, meaning you'll pay substantially more for coverage.
Virginia mandates FR-44 certificates for drivers with alcohol-related violations or multiple serious infractions. The state requires these coverage levels:
Coverage | Insurance effective January 1, 2022 to December 31, 2024 | Insurance effective on or after January 1, 2025 |
|---|---|---|
Bodily Injury Liability (per person) | $60,000 | $100,000 |
Bodily Injury Liability (per accident) | $120,000 | $200,000 |
Property Damage Liability | $40,000 | $50,000 |
Uninsured Motorist Coverage (required regardless of FR-44 status) | $60,000 per person / $120,000 per accident | $60,000 per person / $120,000 per accident |
Virginia requires drivers who need to file an FR-44 form to have double the minimum liability coverage requirements.
FR-44 insurance costs more than standard coverage due to enhanced liability limits and your high-risk driver status. The total cost includes filing fees, higher premiums and potential reinstatement fees that can impact your budget for years.
The FR-44 filing fee ranges from $15 to $25, depending on your insurance company. Additional expenses depend on your state. Florida, for instance, charges reinstatement fees for DUI-related license suspensions. Virginia, on the other hand, charges license reinstatement fees after serious violations.
Many insurers also require you to pay six months or a full year of premiums upfront when filing an FR-44, rather than allowing monthly payments.
Geographic location plays a major role in pricing. Florida generally has higher insurance costs than Virginia due to factors like population density, weather risks and state insurance regulations.
FR-44 requirements increase your insurance costs. We analyzed car insurance rates across Florida and Virginia to show you the real cost impact of FR-44 requirements. Check the table below for average premiums by state.
| Clean | $287 | $3,448 |
| DUI - BAC >= .08 | $386 | $4,631 |
Several factors influence your final premium beyond the basic FR-44 requirement:
Multiple DUI convictions or accidents resulting in injuries lead to higher rates than single, property-damage-only incidents.
Choosing higher limits than the minimum required increases costs but provides better financial protection.
Rates vary between insurers. Companies specializing in high-risk drivers may offer more competitive rates than traditional carriers.
Urban areas typically have higher rates due to increased accident risk and claim frequency.
Younger drivers typically pay more, while drivers with longer clean driving histories before their violation may receive slightly better rates.
Credit history affects pricing in most states, with better credit generally resulting in lower premiums. Your vehicle type, annual mileage and chosen deductibles also influence your final cost.
Having severe traffic violations like a DUI on your record increases your premiums significantly, but it's still possible to find more affordable rates. MoneyGeek provides resources for drivers in Florida and Virginia to help you find cheaper coverage after a DUI. You can also explore State Farm and Farm Bureau, which offer the most affordable FR-44 insurance coverage in Virginia and Florida.
Our research found that State Farm offers the most affordable FR-44 coverage in Florida, with rates averaging $2,805 per year after a DUI. Besides having the cheapest average premium, you can lower your premium further through their extensive list of discounts. State Farm offers a lower rate if you complete a defensive driving course. You can also get a more affordable policy if you have approved anti-theft devices in your car.
Farm Bureau offers the cheapest full coverage car insurance for drivers with a DUI in Virginia, who often need an FR-44 certificate. The company's policy averages $1,196 per year, lower than the state average. You can also find various saving opportunities, such as safety features and new policy discounts, that can help lower your rates further.
Getting FR-44 insurance requires purchasing enhanced auto insurance coverage and having your insurer file the certificate with your state's DMV. The process involves specific documentation, timing requirements and coordination between multiple parties.
Obtaining FR-44 insurance follows a straightforward process, though it requires specific steps to ensure proper filing with your state's DMV. Start by contacting insurance companies that offer FR-44 coverage in your state.
Collect your driver's license number, Social Security number, court documents showing your conviction, vehicle information (VIN, registration) and any DMV correspondence requiring FR-44 filing.
Contact insurance companies that accept high-risk drivers and can file FR-44 certificates. Not all insurers offer this service, so verify they're authorized in your state. Request quotes for enhanced liability limits.
When requesting quotes, clearly explain that you need FR-44 filing and provide details about your violation. Be honest about your driving record, as any discrepancies discovered later could result in policy cancellation.
You'll likely need to pay at least six months of premiums upfront before your insurer can file the FR-44 form. Your insurance company completes the form with your policy details and submits it electronically to your state's DMV system.
After filing, you'll receive confirmation from both your insurance company and the DMV. Keep these documents as proof of compliance, and maintain continuous coverage throughout your required filing period.
Most insurers can electronically file your FR-44 within 24-48 hours of receiving full payment and a completed application. State processing varies. To account for potential delays, start this process at least one week before license reinstatement.
Your insurer provides filing confirmation, but verify independently that the FR-44 appears in your state's DMV system before attempting license reinstatement. Some states offer online status checking, while others require phone calls or in-person visits.
You still need to file an FR-44 certificate even if you don't own a vehicle. This requires purchasing non-owner car insurance, which provides liability protection and allows your insurer to file the necessary FR-44 form. Your policy must meet the same enhanced liability limits as standard policies. You should maintain continuous coverage for three years, regardless of how often you drive.
Non-owner FR-44 follows you as a driver rather than protecting a specific vehicle, providing liability protection when you drive borrowed, rented or employer-owned vehicles. The policy covers bodily injury and property damage you cause to others, but doesn't include comprehensive or collision coverage since you don't own a car to protect.
Not all insurance companies offer non-owner policies with FR-44 filing services. You may need to call insurers directly rather than getting quotes online. Companies specializing in high-risk coverage are more likely to offer these policies and will require detailed information about your driving needs and conviction history.
When you're considered a high-risk driver, states usually require you to carry proof of financial responsibility. Drivers who live in Florida and Virginia must have FR-44 car insurance to show that they have enhanced liability insurance coverage that exceeds standard state minimums. This guide explains what FR-44 is, how and when to file one, state requirements and its impact on car insurance cost.
FR-44 insurance represents a significant financial responsibility that comes with serious traffic violations in Florida and Virginia. While the higher costs and coverage requirements create a substantial burden, maintaining proper FR-44 coverage is essential for license reinstatement and legal driving privileges. You'll need an FR-44 after being convicted of serious traffic violations, such as driving under the influence (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI). Your license may be suspended after being apprehended. An FR-44 certificate is one of the requirements if you need to have it reinstated, proving you maintain the higher liability limits mandated for high-risk drivers.
Find answers to some frequently asked questions about filing an FR-44 below.
If you move from Florida or Virginia to another state, you must maintain your FR-44 coverage for three years. Contact your insurance company to transfer your policy to your new state, ensuring the FR-44 filing remains active with your original state's DMV. Some insurers can maintain coverage across state lines, while others may require you to find a new company licensed in your new state.
Yes, you can switch car insurance companies, but there can't be any gap in coverage or FR-44 filing. Your new insurance company must file the FR-44 before your old policy expires. Coordinate the timing carefully. Have your new insurer confirm the FR-44 filing is active before canceling your existing coverage to avoid license suspension.
If your insurer cancels your car insurance policy, it must notify the state DMV immediately, triggering automatic license suspension. You have a limited window to secure new coverage and file a replacement FR-44. If you believe the cancellation was unfair, contact your state's insurance department to file a complaint, but securing new coverage should be your immediate priority.
Most FR-44 requirements last three years from your license reinstatement date, though repeat offenders may face longer periods.
No, canceling your FR-44 insurance before the required period ends will result in immediate license suspension.
Yes, you can obtain non-owner FR-44 insurance that provides coverage when driving borrowed or rented vehicles.
Not all insurance companies offer FR-44 filings, so you'll need to find insurers licensed to provide this service in your state.
Contact the court that issued your conviction or the DMV that imposed the FR-44 requirement. You may be able to appeal through the court system if you believe the conviction was wrong, or through administrative appeals if the DMV incorrectly applied the requirement. However, you must maintain FR-44 coverage during the appeals process unless specifically told otherwise by the court.
FR-44 requirements usually don't have hardship exemptions like some other DMV requirements. However, your state may allow payment plans for associated fees or alternative arrangements in extreme circumstances. Contact your state's DMV directly to inquire about any available options, but expect to maintain the coverage requirement regardless of financial hardship.
A new conviction during your FR-44 period may reset the three-year clock, extending your requirement period. You might face additional penalties, higher insurance rates or more restrictive license conditions depending on the violation. Some violations could also result in complete license revocation rather than just suspension.
You're generally not required to inform your employer about FR-44 requirements unless your job involves driving company vehicles or requires a clean driving record. However, if you drive for work, your employer's commercial insurance may need to be notified, and they may need to verify your coverage meets their requirements.
Your FR-44 policy provides liability coverage in all 50 states, just like regular auto insurance. However, the FR-44 certificate itself is only recognized by Florida and Virginia. If you're visiting other states, your policy's liability coverage remains valid, but you should carry proof of insurance when traveling.
Carry your insurance card showing current coverage and policy information. Some states recommend keeping a copy of your FR-44 filing confirmation, though this isn't legally required. If stopped by law enforcement, they can verify your coverage through their computer systems, but having documentation readily available can speed up the process.
Your FR-44 requirement ends exactly three years from your license reinstatement date, not from your conviction date. Contact your state's DMV about 30 days before this date to confirm your requirement is ending and to understand any steps needed to remove the FR-44 from your record. Your insurance company can then file a termination form to officially end the requirement.
Yes, once your three-year requirement period ends and you've received official confirmation from the DMV, you can reduce your coverage to standard state minimums or whatever levels you prefer. However, consider keeping higher limits for better financial protection, as you may have grown accustomed to the enhanced coverage during your FR-44 period.
Our Research Approach
Finding affordable FR-44 insurance after a serious driving violation feels overwhelming when you're already dealing with legal requirements and higher costs. We designed our research to help Virginia and Florida drivers understand what FR-44 filing will cost and which companies offer the most reasonable rates for high-risk situations.
Why This Research Matters for FR-44 Drivers
FR-44 requirements mean you can't shop for just any auto insurance. You need coverage that meets strict state minimums while filing the proper certificate. We focused our analysis on companies that actually offer FR-44 services and gathered real quotes to show the financial impact on your budget.
Our Data Collection Process
We compiled information from Quadrant Information Services and evaluated 20,764 quotes from 46 insurance providers across 473 ZIP codes. This approach gives you a realistic picture of what FR-44 insurance costs in your area, not just national averages that might not reflect your local market.
Sample Driver Profile
Our research uses a 40-year-old male driver with a Toyota Camry LE to establish baseline rates. This profile includes:
We modify this profile based on location, age, vehicle type and other factors to provide accurate data for different driver situations.
Coverage Details Explained
Unless noted otherwise, all rates include full coverage insurance with these liability limits:
Your $1,000 deductible means you'll pay this amount before insurance covers collision or comprehensive claims. Higher deductibles reduce your monthly premium, but make sure you can afford the out-of-pocket cost if you need to file a claim.
This methodology helps you compare real costs and find companies that work with high-risk drivers requiring FR-44 certificates.
Learn more about MoneyGeek's methodology.
About Mark Fitzpatrick
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.
