Florida FR-44 insurance: what it is, limits, and how long you need it
In Florida, drivers convicted of DUI must carry much higher liability limits and prove it with an FR-44 form, filed by their insurer. Florida's motor vehicle department says you must keep the FR-44 for three years from the date your driving privilege is reinstated (FLHSMV).
Who needs an FR-44 in Florida
Florida law requires the higher FR-44 limits for drivers convicted of DUI (or who pleaded guilty or no contest) on or after October 1, 2007 (Florida Statutes s. 324.023; FLHSMV). Some other serious offenses can also lead to an FR-44 requirement, so check your notice (NerdWallet).
Less serious problems, like driving without insurance, usually call for an SR-22 instead (NerdWallet). Virginia also uses FR-44s, mainly after DUI convictions (CarInsurance.com).
FR-44 coverage limits in Florida
| Coverage | FR-44 minimum | Florida SR-22 minimum |
|---|---|---|
| Bodily injury, one person | $100,000 | $10,000 |
| Bodily injury, per accident | $300,000 | $20,000 |
| Property damage | $50,000 | $10,000 |
FR-44 limits come from FLHSMV and s. 324.023. SR-22 minimums are from NerdWallet, which also notes $10,000 of personal injury protection (PIP).
How long you need it
Three years from the date your driving privilege is reinstated (FLHSMV), with no gaps in coverage. Florida insurers must report cancellations to the state, which can then suspend your license and registration (Florida Statutes s. 324.0221).
What it costs
- Filing fee: often about $15 to $25 (NerdWallet).
- Premium: one 2024 analysis found about $1,309 a year for minimum FR-44 coverage after a DUI, though prices vary a lot by insurer (NerdWallet). Some insurers ask for several months up front.
How to get an FR-44
- Confirm in your court or FLHSMV paperwork that you need an FR-44, not an SR-22.
- Find an insurer that files FR-44s in Florida. Not every insurer does. Genie can point you to a quoting partner.
- Buy at least 100/300/50 coverage and ask the insurer to file the FR-44.
- Finish the other reinstatement steps on your notice.
- Keep the policy active for the full three years.
Common questions
Is an FR-44 the same as an SR-22?
They do the same job, proving you carry insurance, but an FR-44 requires much higher liability limits (NerdWallet).
Can I get an FR-44 if I don't own a car?
Often, yes, through a non-owner policy that meets the FR-44 limits. See our non-owner SR-22 guide for how non-owner policies work.
Why is FR-44 insurance so expensive?
Partly the DUI on your record, and partly the much higher required limits. Comparing several insurers is the best way to lower the price.
Sources
Official:
- Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV): DUI FAQs
- Florida Statutes s. 324.023: limits after a DUI
- Florida Statutes s. 324.0221: insurer reporting and suspension
Insurance publications:
General information only, not insurance, legal, or financial advice. Rules and prices vary by state and insurer; check your official notice.