The Difference Between SR-22 and FR-44
You may need high-risk car insurance because of unpaid tickets, a DUI, or multiple car accidents. As you are searching online for the insurance you come across SR-22, DUI Insurance, FR-44, and you may be wondering what all of this means. Simply put, they are all different names for the same thing, proof that you are financially responsible and are carrying your state’s required minimum car insurance. We will explain each one more in-depth.
What is an SR-22?
SR-22 insurance is not insurance. It is a certificate of financial responsibility that is attached to an auto policy. Your insurance company will notify your state’s DMV that you are insured. Most times, this is done same-day on in real-time electronically. Also, the filing agreement states that your auto insurer will have to notify the state if your policy cancels for any reason. So be sure always to pay your premiums on time and to drive responsibly.
What is an FR-44?
The FR stands for financial responsibility, and it is often referred to as DUI insurance for residents of Virginia and Florida. If you are charged with a DUI, you will need an FR-44. The FR-44 form is similar to an SR-22. However, it has the additional requirement that the insured carries a minimum of $100,000 liability on the auto insurance policy. License reinstatement requires an SR22 certificate to be filed in all states. But Florida and Virginia have a separate certificate, FR44, specifically for license reinstatement after DUI and DWI convictions.
Florida and Virginia Insurance Coverage Requirements
Virginia and Florida are the only two states that have separate high-risk insurance categories for license reinstatement. You will need an SR22 certificate for non-alcohol or drug-related motor vehicle violations. You will need an FR44 certificate for alcohol or other substance-related DUI violations.
Another difference between SR22 and FR44 insurance is the minimum liability requirement. Coverage requirements for SR22 insurance are somewhat higher than standard auto insurance. FR44 coverage requirements are significantly higher, and premiums are usually double the cost.
SR22 and FR44 in Florida: Standard and SR22 insurance minimum liability requirements are 10/20/10. The minimum liability requirements for FR44 insurance are 100/300/50.
SR22 and FR44 in Virginia: Minimum liability insurance requirements are 25/50/20 for standard and SR22 insurance. The minimum liability coverage for FR44 insurance is 50/100/40.
FR-44 insurance in Virginia
In Virginia, an FR-44 is required for drivers cited for one of the following violations:
- Driving under the influence
- Driving with a suspended license
- Causing serious bodily injury while driving under the influence
The minimum liability coverage for FR44 insurance in Virginia is:
- Bodily injury coverage of $50,000 per person
- Bodily injury coverage of $100,000 per accident
- Property damage coverage of $40,000
FR-44 insurance in Florida
Drivers must file an FR-44 in Florida when cited for driving under the influence. The liability insurance requirements for Florida are high. The minimum liability requirements for FR44 insurance in Florida are:
- Bodily injury coverage of $100,000 per person
- Bodily injury coverage of $300,000 per accident
- Property damage coverage of $50,000
Who Needs High-Risk Car Insurance?
If after you have read all of this, and are still wondering, do I need an SR-22? The best way to find out is to contact your local DMV. If you require an SR-22 form or an FR-44, you are usually notified immediately.
SR-22 Insurance Quotes
Not all car insurance companies provide high-risk car insurance. To make sure that you get a good rate on your SR-22 or FR-44, you will need to call around and ask each provider for a quote. Cost-U-Less makes it easy for you by doing all of the comparison shopping for you. We work with the top insurance companies in the country and can give you a free SR-22 insurance quote in just a few minutes.
If you need an SR-22 or FR-44 to regain your driving privileges, then call us now. We can give you a free SR-22 quote or a free FR-44 quote in just a few minutes. Cost-U-Less specializes in providing low-cost car insurance to all drivers, regardless of driving history. Call 800-390-4071 today to speak to an experienced representative who can assist you.
