FR44 Insurance Florida 2026: Complete Guide — Requirements, Cost, Carriers
FR44 insurance is a Florida-specific certificate that proves you carry the state’s highest mandatory auto liability coverage. It is only required for DUI-related license suspensions — and Florida is one of only two states in the country that uses FR44 (the other is Virginia). Here is everything Florida drivers need to know in 2026.
What Is FR44 Insurance in Florida?
FR44 is not a separate insurance product — it is a certificate filed by your insurance company with the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) proving you carry the required liability limits after a DUI conviction.
| Coverage Type | Standard FL Auto | FR44 Required |
|---|---|---|
| Bodily Injury (per person) | $10,000 | $100,000 |
| Bodily Injury (per accident) | $20,000 | $300,000 |
| Property Damage | $10,000 | $50,000 |
The FR44 limits are 10x higher for bodily injury than Florida’s standard minimums. This is intentional — the state legislature determined that DUI offenders should carry more coverage given the elevated accident risk.
Who Needs FR44 in Florida (2026)?
You need FR44 if you were convicted of:
- DUI (first or subsequent offense)
- DUI with property damage or injury
- DUI manslaughter
- Driving under the influence of a controlled substance
You do NOT need FR44 for:
- Driving without insurance (that requires SR22 in Florida)
- Too many points on your license (SR22)
- Reckless driving without DUI (SR22)
How Long Do You Need FR44 in Florida?
3 years from the date your license is reinstated — not your conviction date. This is a critical distinction. If your license was suspended for 6 months before reinstatement, your FR44 clock starts on reinstatement day, not conviction day.
Important: If your FR44 policy lapses at any point, the clock resets. DHSMV re-suspends your license and you must start the 3-year requirement over.
How Much Does FR44 Insurance Cost in Florida?
| Carrier | Estimated Monthly Range (FL) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Progressive | $85 – $130 | Most competitive for first DUI |
| Dairyland | $90 – $140 | Strong for older vehicles |
| State Farm | $95 – $150 | Good if prior State Farm customer |
| Gainsco | $95 – $155 | Accepts high-risk profiles |
| Bristol West | $100 – $160 | Wide state coverage |
| The General | $110 – $175 | Last-resort option |
| Allstate | $120 – $185 | Standard carrier, less competitive for DUI |
Rates vary significantly based on: number of DUI offenses, your age, your vehicle, your zip code, and your credit score. Always compare at least 3-4 carriers before purchasing.
How to Get FR44 Insurance in Florida — Step by Step
- Step 1: Confirm you need FR44 (not SR22) by checking your DHSMV suspension letter or calling (850) 617-2000
- Step 2: Compare quotes from FR44-authorized carriers — not all insurers offer it
- Step 3: Purchase a policy with exactly 100/300/50 limits (lower limits will not satisfy the requirement)
- Step 4: Your insurer files the FR44 certificate electronically with DHSMV (same-day in most cases)
- Step 5: DHSMV processes the filing and reinstates your license within 1-3 business days
- Step 6: Maintain the policy continuously for 3 full years — never let it lapse
Florida vs Virginia: The Only Two FR44 States
Florida and Virginia are the only two states in the U.S. that use FR44 instead of SR22 for DUI-related suspensions. Key differences:
| Florida FR44 | Virginia FR44 | |
|---|---|---|
| BI Limits | $100,000 / $300,000 | $50,000 / $100,000 |
| Property Damage | $50,000 | $40,000 |
| Cost (avg monthly) | $90 – $175 | $65 – $130 |
| Duration | 3 years | 3 years |
| Filing authority | DHSMV | DMV |
If you move from Virginia to Florida with an active FR44, you must transfer to a Florida FR44 policy with Florida’s higher limits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get FR44 without a car in Florida?
Yes. Non-owner FR44 policies are available for drivers who do not own a vehicle but need to satisfy the DHSMV filing requirement. You can drive other people’s cars or rentals under this coverage.
What happens if I cancel my FR44 policy in Florida?
Your insurer notifies DHSMV immediately. DHSMV re-suspends your license the same day. You must purchase a new FR44 policy and your 3-year clock resets from zero. Do not cancel or let your policy lapse for any reason.
Does FR44 cover the other driver or me?
FR44 is liability coverage — it covers bodily injury and property damage you cause to other people. It does not cover damage to your own vehicle. You can add comprehensive/collision on top, but they are not required by DHSMV.
How is FR44 different from SR22 in Florida?
Florida issues FR44 for DUI-related suspensions only. SR22 is used for other violations (driving without insurance, excessive points, reckless driving). FR44 requires 100/300/50 limits; SR22 requires 10/20/10 limits. The cost difference is significant.
Can I choose any insurance company for FR44 in Florida?
No. Only carriers authorized to file FR44 certificates with DHSMV can issue these policies. Not all standard auto insurers (USAA, Geico, Liberty Mutual) offer FR44. Progressive, Dairyland, and Bristol West are most commonly available.
Ready to get your Florida FR44 filed today? Get a free 2-minute quote — same-day DHSMV filing included.