Specifically, florida does not use SR-22 — instead, it requires an FR-44 filing for DUI and certain serious traffic offenses. FR-44 insurance in Florida typically costs $150 to $400+ per month, significantly more than standard coverage because it mandates much higher liability limits of $100,000/$300,000/$50,000 — far above Florida’s standard minimums. The FR-44 requirement lasts for 3 years from the date of license reinstatement.
Why Florida Uses FR-44 Instead of SR-22
Additionally, florida is one of only two states (along with Virginia) that uses FR-44 rather than SR-22 for DUI-related offenses. The key difference is that FR-44 requires significantly higher liability coverage. Specifically, while a standard SR-22 in other states simply certifies you carry state minimum coverage, Florida’s FR-44 mandates bodily injury limits of $100,000 per person and $300,000 per accident, plus $50,000 in property damage.
Additionally, these FR-44 limits are dramatically higher than Florida’s standard minimum liability requirements of $25,000/$50,000/$10,000. As a result, drivers needing FR-44 face substantially higher premiums — often 3 to 5 times what they were paying before the offense.
Key Details
What Triggers an FR-44 Requirement in Florida
Florida requires FR-44 filings for several serious offenses. The most common trigger is a DUI conviction. Furthermore, FR-44 is required for DUI manslaughter, refusal to submit to a breathalyzer test (resulting in license suspension), and certain repeat traffic offenses as determined by the court.
Importantly, the FR-44 requirement begins when your license is reinstated — not from the date of conviction. In practice, if your license is suspended for 6 months after a DUI, the 3-year FR-44 clock starts when you get your license back, meaning the total impact extends well beyond 3 years.
FR-44 Filing Process
Your insurance company files the FR-44 form directly with the Florida DHSMV on your behalf. Specifically, you cannot file it yourself — it must come from a licensed insurance carrier. If your current insurer doesn’t offer FR-44 filings, you’ll need to find one that does. Notably, not all insurance companies handle FR-44 policies, so working with an independent agent who shops multiple carriers is particularly valuable.
How to Reduce FR-44 Insurance Costs in Florida
While FR-44 insurance is inherently expensive, there are strategies to minimize the cost. First, shop multiple carriers through an independent agent — rates can vary by 40% or more between companies for FR-44 policies. Additionally, completing a DUI school or substance abuse course may qualify you for discounts with some insurers.
Furthermore, maintaining a clean driving record during your FR-44 period is critical. Any additional violations will further increase your rates. In particular, bundling your auto insurance with homeowners or renters coverage can sometimes offset a portion of the FR-44 premium increase.
Cost Factors to Consider
| Comparison | Standard FL Auto | FR-44 (DUI) |
|---|---|---|
| Bodily Injury (per person) | $25,000 | $100,000 |
| Bodily Injury (per accident) | $50,000 | $300,000 |
| Property Damage | $10,000 | $50,000 |
| Typical Monthly Cost | $150-$250 | $300-$600+ |
| Filing Duration | N/A | 3 years from reinstatement |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Florida require SR-22 insurance? No — Florida uses FR-44 instead of SR-22 for DUI and serious traffic offenses. The FR-44 requires higher liability limits of 100/300/50, which is significantly more than a standard SR-22 in other states.
How long do I need FR-44 in Florida? FR-44 is required for 3 years from the date of license reinstatement. Importantly, this clock starts when your license is restored, not from the conviction date.
Legal Requirements
What happens if I let my FR-44 lapse in Florida? Your insurance company will notify DHSMV, and your license will be immediately suspended. Specifically, reinstating your license after a lapse may reset the 3-year FR-44 requirement period.
Can I get FR-44 insurance from any company in Florida? Not all carriers offer FR-44 filings. Working with an independent agent like Bridgeway gives you access to multiple carriers that handle FR-44 policies.
Is FR-44 more expensive than SR-22? Yes, significantly. Because FR-44 requires much higher liability limits (100/300/50 vs. state minimums), it typically costs 2-3 times more than an SR-22 would in another state.
Get Affordable FR-44 Insurance in Florida
Finding affordable FR-44 coverage in Florida requires shopping multiple carriers — and that’s exactly what an independent agent does best. Bridgeway Insurance Agency works with multiple carriers that offer FR-44 filings, helping Florida drivers find the most competitive rates for required high-liability coverage.
Contact Bridgeway Insurance today:
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Bridgeway Insurance Agency — Helping Florida drivers navigate FR-44 requirements affordably.
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