What Is FR-44 Insurance?
FR-44 is a certificate of financial responsibility required by the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) after a DUI or DWI conviction. It proves to the state that you carry auto insurance with liability limits significantly higher than Florida's standard minimums. Your insurance company files the FR-44 certificate electronically with the DHSMV on your behalf.
Higher Liability Limits Required
FR-44 requires you to carry significantly higher liability coverage than standard Florida minimums: $100,000 per person / $300,000 per accident bodily injury and $50,000 property damage. That is 4 times the standard Florida bodily injury requirement. See how to find the cheapest FR-44 rates →
How Long Do You Need It?
Most Florida drivers must maintain FR-44 coverage for 3 years from the date their driving privilege is reinstated. Any lapse in coverage — even a single day — can restart the clock and trigger an immediate license suspension. Learn about monthly payment options →
FR-44 vs SR-22
FR-44 is Florida-specific and requires higher limits than the SR-22 used in other states. If your DUI occurred in Florida, you need an FR-44 — not an SR-22. Virginia phased out its FR-44 requirement in 2020, making Florida the only state that currently uses it. Compare FR-44 vs. SR-22 in detail →
Don't Own a Car? You Still Need It.
Even without a vehicle, if the Florida DHSMV requires an FR-44, you need one. A non-owner FR-44 policy covers you when driving any vehicle you don't own. These are often the most affordable option. Learn about non-owner FR-44 insurance →
FR-44 Required Coverage Limits vs Standard Florida Minimums
Florida's FR-44 requirement mandates liability coverage that is roughly 4 times higher than the state's standard minimums. This table shows exactly what you must carry.
| Coverage Type | Standard FL Minimum | FR-44 Required | Increase |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bodily Injury (per person) | $25,000 | $100,000 | 4× |
| Bodily Injury (per accident) | $50,000 | $300,000 | 6× |
| Property Damage Liability | $25,000 | $50,000 | 2× |
| Personal Injury Protection | $10,000 | $10,000 | Same |
Required limits are set by Florida Statutes §627.7275 and triggered by violations under §316.193 (DUI).
How to Get FR-44 Insurance Filed
The filing process is straightforward when you work with a broker who handles electronic filing. Here is exactly what happens, step by step.
Step 1: Get Quotes from Multiple Carriers
We compare rates from 15+ insurance carriers who write FR-44 policies in Florida. Rates vary significantly between carriers for high-risk drivers, so comparing multiple quotes is the single most effective way to save. Get free quotes now →
Step 2: Purchase Your Policy
Choose between a non-owner policy (if you don't own a vehicle) or an owner policy (if you do). Select monthly payments if you need to spread the cost. Your down payment starts coverage immediately. See monthly payment options →
Step 3: Electronic Filing with DHSMV
Your insurance company files the FR-44 certificate electronically with the Florida DHSMV. This is typically completed within minutes during business hours. The DHSMV usually updates your driving record within 24 to 48 hours.
Step 4: Reinstate Your License
Once the FR-44 is filed, visit a Florida DHSMV office (or go online) to pay reinstatement fees and complete the reinstatement process. You may also need to complete DUI school, pay court fines, or install an ignition interlock device depending on your case. See full reinstatement guide →
Step 5: Maintain Coverage for 3 Years
Keep your FR-44 policy active without any lapses for the full 3-year requirement. Set up automatic payments or reminders to avoid accidental gaps. If you move, change vehicles, or switch carriers, make sure there is zero gap between policies.
How Much Does FR-44 Insurance Cost?
FR-44 insurance costs more than standard auto insurance because of the higher required limits and the DUI on your record. However, costs vary widely based on several factors. Understanding these factors helps you find the most affordable option.
| Policy Type | Monthly Cost | Down Payment | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Non-Owner FR-44 | $14 – $30/mo | $45 – $100 | Drivers without a vehicle |
| Owner FR-44 (Standard) | $50 – $150/mo | $150 – $400 | Vehicle owners needing liability only |
| Owner FR-44 (Full Coverage) | $100 – $250/mo | $300 – $700 | Vehicle owners with loans or leases |
Key Factors That Affect Your Rate
Your driving record: Prior accidents, tickets, and the severity of your DUI all impact pricing. A first-offense DUI will cost less than a second or third.
Vehicle ownership: Non-owner policies are dramatically cheaper because they don't cover physical damage to a vehicle. Compare non-owner vs owner rates →
Carrier selection: Each insurer prices FR-44 risk differently. Progressive, Geico, Mercury, Dairyland, Foremost, and Bristol West all write FR-44 in Florida but with very different rates for the same driver. See which carriers offer the best FR-44 rates →
Payment frequency: Paying the full 6-month premium upfront usually saves 10 to 20 percent compared to monthly installments.
Ways to Lower Your FR-44 Cost
Compare quotes from at least 3 carriers before buying. Consider a non-owner policy if you don't need to drive your own vehicle. Ask about monthly payments if the down payment is a concern. Maintain continuous coverage — a lapse will make future rates even higher. Read our complete guide to finding the cheapest FR-44 →
When Is FR-44 Required in Florida?
Florida law requires an FR-44 filing after certain serious driving offenses. Understanding your specific trigger helps you navigate the reinstatement process.
DUI / DWI Conviction
A conviction under Florida Statute §316.193 for driving under the influence is the most common reason for an FR-44 requirement. This includes both alcohol and drug-related DUIs. The requirement applies whether you pleaded guilty or were convicted at trial.
DUI Manslaughter
If a DUI resulted in a fatality, the FR-44 requirement is longer and the liability limits may be even higher. These cases require specialized handling and often involve additional court-ordered requirements beyond standard FR-44 filing.
Habitual Traffic Offender
Drivers classified as habitual traffic offenders (HTO) may also face FR-44 requirements as part of their license reinstatement conditions, depending on the specific violations that led to the HTO designation.
Out-of-State DUI
If you hold a Florida license but received a DUI in another state, Florida may still require an FR-44 filing to maintain your Florida driving privileges. The Florida DHSMV receives DUI reports from other states through the interstate Driver License Compact.
Frequently Asked Questions About FR-44 Insurance
The most common questions we hear from drivers who just received a DUI and need FR-44 insurance for the first time.
What is FR-44 insurance in Florida?
FR-44 is a certificate of financial responsibility required by the Florida DHSMV after a DUI conviction. It proves you carry higher liability coverage than standard minimums: $100,000 per person and $300,000 per accident in bodily injury liability plus $50,000 in property damage liability. Your insurance company files the FR-44 electronically with the state.
How much does Florida FR-44 insurance cost?
FR-44 insurance costs vary based on your driving record, age, location, and vehicle ownership. Non-owner FR-44 policies typically cost $14 to $30 per month. Owner FR-44 policies range from $50 to $150 per month for standard coverage and $100 to $250 per month for full coverage. See the complete cost breakdown →
How long do I need FR-44 insurance in Florida?
Florida requires FR-44 coverage for 3 years from the date your driving privilege is reinstated. You must maintain continuous coverage with no lapses. Even a one-day gap can restart the 3-year requirement and trigger immediate license suspension.
What is the difference between FR-44 and SR-22?
FR-44 and SR-22 are both certificates of financial responsibility, but FR-44 requires higher liability limits. FR-44 requires $100,000/$300,000/$50,000 in coverage while SR-22 typically requires only $25,000/$50,000/$10,000. Florida is the only state that currently uses FR-44. Compare FR-44 vs SR-22 in detail →
Do I need FR-44 insurance if I don't own a car?
Yes. If the Florida DHSMV requires an FR-44 filing, you must maintain it regardless of vehicle ownership. A non-owner FR-44 policy satisfies the state requirement and covers you when driving vehicles you do not own. Non-owner policies are typically the most affordable FR-44 option. Learn about non-owner FR-44 →
How do I file an FR-44 in Florida?
Your insurance company files the FR-44 certificate electronically with the Florida DHSMV. The process takes minutes when working with a broker who offers same-day electronic filing. You purchase a qualifying policy, the insurer files the certificate, and the DHSMV updates your record usually within 24 to 48 hours. Start the filing process →
What happens if my FR-44 insurance lapses?
If your FR-44 coverage lapses for any reason, even one day, the insurance company is required to notify the Florida DHSMV. Your driver's license will be immediately suspended, the 3-year FR-44 requirement clock resets, and you will need to restart the entire process with a new filing and reinstatement fees. Read about the reinstatement process →
Get Your FR-44 Filed Today
Same-day electronic filing. Monthly payments available. 15+ carriers compared instantly.
Get FR-44 Owner Quote → Non-Owner Quote