Navigating Florida’s insurance landscape can be complex, especially if you’ve been flagged as a high-risk driver. Two terms you’ll likely encounter in this context are SR-22 and FR-44 insurance. At Amistad Insurance Group, we specialize in helping drivers understand and meet these requirements, ensuring you stay legal and protected on the road.
SR-22 and FR-44 are not insurance policies themselves. Instead, they are certificates of financial responsibility that your insurance company files with the state to prove you carry the required liability coverage. Both are generally required after certain driving offenses, but they serve slightly different purposes and come with different coverage requirements.
An SR-22 is typically required for drivers who have:
Coverage Requirements for SR-22 in Florida:
Most drivers must maintain SR-22 insurance for three years, but this period may be longer for more serious offenses.
An FR-44 is a stricter requirement, unique to Florida and Virginia, primarily mandated after a DUI conviction, especially for drivers with higher blood alcohol concentrations or repeat offenses.
Like SR-22, FR-44 insurance must be carried for at least three years in Florida.
| Feature | SR-22 Insurance | FR-44 Insurance |
| Required For | Less severe offenses | DUI and more serious offenses |
| Liability Coverage | Lower ($10k/$20k/$10k) | Higher ($100k/$300k/$50k) |
| States | Most states | Only Florida and Virginia |
| Duration | 3 years (typically) | 3 years (typically) |
Florida requires these certifications to ensure that high-risk drivers maintain adequate insurance coverage. The state wants to protect other drivers, passengers, and property from financial harm if you’re involved in an accident.
Filing for an SR-22 usually costs between $15 and $25 as a one-time fee, but your insurance premiums will likely increase due to your high-risk status. For FR-44, expect significantly higher premiums averaging around $4,717 per year for drivers with a DUI conviction. These costs reflect the increased risk you pose to insurers.
You must maintain continuous coverage for the entire required period. If your insurance lapses, your insurance company is required to notify the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV), which could result in license suspension. Always confirm with your insurer that your SR-22 or FR-44 has been properly removed after the required period.
Not all insurance companies offer these filings. At Amistad Insurance Group, our bilingual agents are ready to guide you through the process, whether you need auto, home, or business insurance. We work with carriers that provide SR-22 and FR-44 filings, ensuring you meet all state requirements.
Here are four common questions about SR-22 and FR-44 insurance that aren’t covered in the main blog content:
Additional Resources For more information on SR-22 and FR-44 insurance requirements in Florida, visit the official Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) website: https://www.flhsmv.gov For detailed guides on financial responsibility filings, see the USAA FAQ: https://mobile.usaa.com/support/insurance/auto-insurance-financial-responsibility-filing-sr-22-fr-44/2 For legal advice regarding DUI and license issues, consult Musca Law, P.A.: https://www.muscalaw.com/blog/understanding-sr-22-and-fr-44-insurance-requirements-florida3
Contact Us Today to Protect Your Driving Privileges
Understanding SR-22 and FR-44 insurance requirements is essential for Florida drivers who have committed serious traffic offenses. These certifications ensure you maintain adequate liability coverage and help you regain or keep your driving privileges. At Amistad Insurance Group, we’re here to help you navigate these requirements with confidence and ease, offering support in English, Spanish, and Spanglish to meet the needs of all drivers in Florida. If you need SR-22 or FR-44 insurance, contact us today to get a quote and ensure you’re fully compliant with Florida law.
