Also see: FR44 Insurance for Rideshare Drivers — Uber & Lyft DUI coverage guide.
After a DUI conviction in Florida, you don't just need insurance — you need a specific type called FR-44. MyFloridaFR44 (License #L091747) files FR-44 certificates with the DHSMV same-day. We file same-day; DHSMV processing time is separate. This guide explains exactly what DUI insurance is, what it costs, and how to get filed fast.
What Is Florida DUI Insurance?
"DUI insurance" is the common term for the FR-44 endorsed auto insurance policy Florida requires after a DUI conviction. The FR-44 is not a separate insurance product — it is a certificate your insurance carrier files electronically with the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) proving you carry liability coverage at mandated higher limits.
Standard Florida auto insurance requires only $10,000 in Personal Injury Protection (PIP) and $10,000 in Property Damage Liability (PDL). After a DUI, the state mandates dramatically higher limits:
| Coverage Type | Standard FL Minimum | FR-44 Required |
|---|---|---|
| Bodily Injury (per person) | $10,000 | $100,000 |
| Bodily Injury (per accident) | $20,000 | $300,000 |
| Property Damage Liability | $10,000 | $50,000 |
| PIP (Personal Injury Protection) | $10,000 | $10,000 |
That is a 10x increase in bodily injury coverage and a 5x increase in property damage coverage. This is why DUI insurance rates jump — you are buying significantly more protection.
The Florida DUI Insurance Process — Step by Step
Step 1: Get Quotes from FR-44 Carriers
Not all insurance companies write FR-44 policies in Florida. We compare quotes from 15+ approved carriers including Progressive, Geico, Mercury, Dairyland, Foremost, and Bristol West. Getting multiple quotes is the #1 way to save — carrier pricing for FR-44 varies dramatically between carriers.
Step 2: Purchase Your Policy
Choose the carrier and coverage that fits your situation. You can choose owner FR-44 (if you have a vehicle) or non-owner FR-44 (if you don't). Most carriers offer monthly payment plans so you don't have to pay the full premium upfront.
Step 3: FR-44 Electronically Filed with DHSMV
Once you purchase, your carrier files the FR-44 certificate electronically with the Florida DHSMV. MyFloridaFR44 files electronically the same day your policy is issued. DHSMV processing time is separate.
Step 4: Reinstate Your License
After the FR-44 is on file with DHSMV, pay your reinstatement fees and any outstanding requirements (DUI school, community service, etc.). The DHSMV processes electronic FR-44 filings on their own timeline — faster than paper filings. See our license reinstatement guide for the full checklist.
Step 5: Maintain Coverage for 3 Years
Florida requires you to maintain continuous FR-44 coverage for 3 years from your reinstatement date. Set up automatic payments to avoid lapses — even a one-day gap triggers a license suspension and can reset the 3-year clock.
How Much Does DUI Insurance Cost in Florida?
DUI insurance costs depend on several factors: whether you own a vehicle, your driving history, age, ZIP code, and which carrier you choose. Here are typical Florida FR-44 rate ranges:
| Policy Type | Monthly Cost | Down Payment | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Non-Owner FR-44 | Varies by driver | Varies by driver | Don't own a car, need license reinstated |
| Owner FR-44 (standard) | Varies by driver | Varies by driver | Own a vehicle, need full compliance |
| Owner FR-44 (full coverage) | Varies by driver | Varies by driver | Financed vehicle requiring comp/collision |
How We Find Your Lowest FR-44 Rate
We shop 15+ Florida-licensed carriers simultaneously for your specific driver profile. Each carrier uses a different rating formula, so the same driver gets dramatically different quotes depending on which company writes the policy. One call, every option, side by side.
Common DUI Insurance Mistakes to Avoid
1. Accepting the First Quote
The biggest mistake DUI convicts make is calling one insurance company and accepting whatever rate they quote. FR-44 rates vary dramatically between carriers for the exact same driver. Always compare at least 5 quotes. Our quoting system does this automatically — one form, 15+ carrier quotes.
2. Buying Owner FR-44 When You Don't Need To
If you don't own a vehicle, a non-owner FR-44 policy costs half as much and fully satisfies the DHSMV requirement. Many drivers don't know this option exists and overpay for coverage they don't need.
3. Letting Coverage Lapse
Even a one-day lapse in FR-44 coverage triggers an automatic DHSMV license suspension. The 3-year requirement can reset from scratch. Set up automatic payments or monthly billing to prevent gaps.
4. Not Filing Electronically
Paper FR-44 filings can take 7-10 days to process. Electronic filing is processed faster than paper. MyFloridaFR44 files electronically same-day — do not accept a carrier that only files by mail.
5. Ignoring the 3-Year Timeline
Mark your calendar for the exact date your 3-year FR-44 requirement ends. Many drivers continue paying elevated rates for months or years after the requirement expires because they forgot to switch back to standard coverage.
DUI Insurance vs. FR-44 vs. SR-22 — What's the Difference?
These terms are often confused. Here's the simple breakdown:
- DUI Insurance — Generic term for any high-risk insurance required after a DUI conviction
- FR-44 — The specific certificate required in Florida and Virginia after a DUI. Requires higher liability limits than SR-22. Full comparison →
- SR-22 — A similar certificate required for non-DUI violations (reckless driving, driving without insurance, multiple tickets). Lower liability limits than FR-44.
Florida is one of only two states (Florida and Virginia) that uses the FR-44. All other states use SR-22 for similar violations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What insurance do I need after a DUI in Florida?
Also see: FR44 Insurance for Rideshare Drivers — Uber & Lyft DUI coverage guide.
After a DUI conviction in Florida, you must file an FR-44 certificate with the DHSMV. This proves you carry increased liability limits: $100,000/$300,000 bodily injury and $50,000 property damage. You must maintain FR-44 coverage for 3 years from reinstatement.
How much is DUI insurance in Florida?
DUI insurance is priced based on your driving record — we compare 15+ carriers for both non-owner and owner policies — rates vary by driver and carrier. Your exact rate depends on your DUI details, driving history, age, and location. Comparing 5+ carrier quotes is the most effective way to lower your cost.
How long do I need FR-44 after a Florida DUI?
Florida law requires 3 years of continuous FR-44 coverage from your license reinstatement date. If coverage lapses, the 3-year clock can reset and your license is suspended again.
Can I get DUI insurance without a car?
Yes — a non-owner FR-44 policy covers you when driving someone else's vehicle and satisfies the DHSMV requirement. Non-owner policies are competitively priced — we shop 15+ carriers to find the lowest rate for your situation, roughly half the cost of owner FR-44.
What is the difference between DUI insurance and regular car insurance?
DUI insurance requires the FR-44 filing and liability limits 10x higher than standard Florida minimums. Standard requires $10K PIP/$10K PDL; FR-44 requires $100K/$300K BI plus $50K PDL. Higher limits = higher premiums.
How fast can I get FR-44 filed?
MyFloridaFR44 files electronically same-day. DHSMV processing time is separate. Call 1-855-678-6977 to start.
What happens if my FR-44 insurance lapses?
Your carrier notifies DHSMV immediately if FR-44 coverage lapses. The DHSMV suspends your license and the 3-year requirement can reset. Always maintain continuous coverage — set up automatic payments to avoid gaps.
Get Your FR-44 Filed Today
Same-day electronic filing. We shop 15+ carriers to find your lowest rate.
Get FR-44 Owner Quote → Non-Owner Quote