FR-44 Insurance in Florida After a First DUI: What Drivers Need to Know 

After a first DUI conviction in Florida, drivers are typically required to carry higher liability insurance limits and provide proof of financial responsibility through an FR-44 filing. The required limits are $100,000 per person/$300,000 per accident for bodily injury and $50,000 per accident for property damage. The higher financial responsibility requirement generally lasts three years. 

An FR-44 is not a separate insurance policy. It is a certificate filed with the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) to verify that you meet the state’s requirements. Understanding the filing process and reinstatement rules can help you avoid delays in restoring your driving privileges. 

Why Does Florida Require an FR-44 Instead of an SR-22 After a DUI? 

Florida requires higher financial responsibility limits for drivers convicted of DUI under Florida Statutes Section 324.023. An FR-44 verifies compliance with these requirements, while an SR-22 is used for certain other violations that involve lower coverage limits. 

Both filings provide proof of financial responsibility, but they serve different purposes. 

Feature	Florida FR-44	Florida SR-22
Common reason	DUI conviction	Certain non-DUI violations
Bodily injury liability	$100,000 per person/$300,000 per accident	Lower limits may apply
Property damage liability	$50,000 per accident	Lower limits may apply
Filing	Submitted by an insurance company	Submitted by an insurance company
Purpose	Verifies higher financial responsibility	Verifies required financial responsibility

You can learn more about Florida FR-44 insurance and how it differs from other financial responsibility filings. 

How Do FR-44 Coverage Requirements Compare to Standard Florida Minimums? 

Florida’s standard auto insurance requirements are considerably lower than the limits associated with an FR-44. 

Standard Florida Minimum Auto Insurance Requirements 

Most owners of registered vehicles in Florida must carry: 

• $10,000 in personal injury protection (PIP), which helps pay medical expenses and certain other costs after an accident. 

• $10,000 in property damage liability (PDL), which helps pay for damage you cause to someone else’s property. 

Florida does not require every driver to carry bodily injury liability coverage under its basic registration requirements. However, additional financial responsibility obligations can apply after certain accidents or violations. 

Drivers can explore Florida auto insurance requirements to better understand their coverage options. 

FR-44 Liability Limits After a First DUI 

Florida’s FR-44 financial responsibility requirements are: 

• Bodily Injury Liability: $100,000 per person/$300,000 per accident. 

• Property Damage Liability: $50,000 per accident. 

These higher limits help address injuries and property damage a driver may cause in an accident. Florida’s applicable PIP requirements must also be satisfied. Drivers can purchase higher liability limits if available. For more information about these protections, review liability car insurance. 

How Do Higher FR-44 Limits Affect Insurance Costs? 

Insurance premiums may increase after a DUI because insurance companies consider the conviction when evaluating driving risk. The higher liability limits required for an FR-44 can also affect the premium. 

Other pricing factors include: 

• Previous accidents and traffic violations. 

• Driver age and experience. 

• Vehicle type and location. 

• Selected coverage and deductibles. 

• Whether the policy covers an owned vehicle or qualifies as non-owner coverage. 

The amount of any increase varies by driver and insurance company, making it important to compare quotes. 

FR-44 Filing Fee vs. the Actual Cost of Florida FR-44 Insurance 

The FR-44 filing fee is an administrative charge for submitting the certificate, while the insurance premium pays for the underlying coverage. Drivers may also face upfront payment requirements and separate license reinstatement fees. 

Expense	What It Covers
FR-44 filing fee	Administrative cost of submitting the certificate
Insurance premium	Ongoing cost of qualifying coverage
Upfront payment	Amount required to activate or maintain the policy
License reinstatement fees	Separate state charges for restoring driving privileges

Some insurance companies charge a separate filing fee, while others include it in their pricing. Florida FR-44 policies may also require larger upfront payments or full-term payment arrangements. Request an itemized quote to understand the total cost, including any filing and payment requirements. 

How Does FR-44 Insurance Work for Owners and Non-Owners in Florida? 

The appropriate policy depends on whether you own a vehicle, regularly use one, or need to maintain financial responsibility without owning a car. 

Owner FR-44 Policies 

If you own a vehicle, an owner policy typically provides the required liability coverage and identifies the insured vehicle. 

Depending on your circumstances, you may also need or want: 

• Personal Injury Protection: Coverage required under applicable Florida law. 

• Collision Coverage: Helps pay for qualifying damage to your vehicle after a collision. 

• Comprehensive Coverage: Helps cover certain non-collision losses, such as theft or storm damage. 

• Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage: Provides additional protection in qualifying accidents. 

Collision and comprehensive coverage are not part of the FR-44 liability requirements, although a lender may require them for a financed or leased vehicle. 

Non-Owner FR-44 Policies 

Drivers who do not own a vehicle may be able to satisfy their filing requirements through an eligible non-owner car insurance policy. Non-owner coverage typically provides liability protection when an insured driver occasionally operates vehicles they do not own. It does not ordinarily cover physical damage to the borrowed vehicle. 

If you regularly use a household vehicle, a non-owner policy may not be appropriate. Confirm eligibility and whether the policy satisfies your Florida FR-44 requirement before purchasing coverage. 

How Does the FR-44 Filing Process Work in Florida? 

After a first DUI conviction, drivers should confirm their reinstatement requirements with FLHSMV. The process involves obtaining qualifying coverage, arranging the filing, and completing any other conditions for restoring driving privileges. 

Step 1: Confirm Your FR-44 Requirement 

Review your court paperwork and FLHSMV notices to identify: 

• Your license suspension or revocation period. 

• Required financial responsibility documentation. 

• Applicable DUI education or treatment requirements. 

• Reinstatement fees and other conditions. 

Requirements vary based on the circumstances of the conviction, so confirm your specific obligations before purchasing insurance. 

Step 2: Find an Insurance Company That Handles FR-44 Filings 

Not every insurance company offers coverage for drivers who need an FR-44. Comparing options from companies that work with high-risk drivers can help you find an eligible policy. Have your driver’s license information, relevant notices, and vehicle details available when requesting quotes. 

Step 3: Purchase Coverage and Request the FR-44 Filing 

After selecting a qualifying policy, arrange payment and ask the insurance company to submit the FR-44 to FLHSMV. Confirm the policy’s effective date, liability limits, and filing status. Purchasing insurance alone does not automatically restore your driving privileges. 

Step 4: Complete Your License Reinstatement Requirements 

FLHSMV determines whether you have satisfied the conditions for reinstatement. These may include completing the required revocation period, paying fees, fulfilling DUI program requirements, and providing proof of financial responsibility. Do not drive until your driving privileges have been legally restored, or you have received an applicable restricted driving privilege. 

How Long Do You Need an FR-44 in Florida After a First DUI? 

Florida law requires higher financial responsibility limits for a minimum of three years. Under Section 324.023, the exemption from those higher limits is tied to a three-year period from reinstatement without another DUI or felony traffic conviction. 

The date of your arrest or conviction is not necessarily the date your three-year period ends. Confirm the applicable dates with FLHSMV. 

Does a First DUI Affect Your License for the Entire Three Years? 

The FR-44 financial responsibility period and the license revocation period are different requirements. 

Under Florida Statutes Section 322.28, an ordinary first DUI conviction generally carries a license revocation period of at least 180 days and no more than one year. More serious offenses may involve different penalties. 

The FR-44 requirement can continue after driving privileges have been reinstated. 

Can You Remove the FR-44 After Three Years? 

Once you have satisfied the applicable requirement, you may be able to remove the FR-44 filing and maintain a standard insurance policy. 

Before changing coverage, confirm with FLHSMV that your obligation has ended. Removing the filing prematurely can affect your driving privileges. 

What Happens If Your FR-44 Coverage Lapses in Florida? 

A lapse in qualifying coverage can lead to another suspension of your driving privileges. Insurance companies report cancellations of FR-44 coverage to FLHSMV, which can take action when the required financial responsibility is no longer maintained. 

A lapse may occur when: 

• A policy is canceled for nonpayment. 

• Coverage expires without renewal. 

• A replacement policy does not begin before the previous policy ends. 

• Required liability limits are reduced. 

Restoring compliance may require a new qualifying policy, an updated filing, and applicable reinstatement fees. A lapse may also affect the required period of continuous coverage. 

To avoid interruptions, monitor payment deadlines and coordinate policy changes before canceling existing coverage. Learn more about the consequences of a suspended driver’s license and the importance of maintaining required insurance. 

How Is FR-44 Insurance Different From Ordinary Car Insurance? 

An FR-44 is not a separate insurance policy. It is a filing that verifies your auto insurance meets Florida’s higher financial responsibility requirements after a qualifying DUI conviction. 

Unlike ordinary car insurance, FR-44 coverage requires higher liability limits, state verification, and continued compliance throughout the required period. Some insurance companies may also impose additional payment requirements or restrictions for drivers who need an FR-44. Optional protections, such as collision and comprehensive coverage, remain available depending on the policy and insurance company. 

How Long Can a First DUI Affect Florida Insurance Pricing Beyond the FR-44? 

A first DUI may affect insurance premiums even after the FR-44 requirement ends. Insurance companies consider driving history when evaluating risk, and their  rules for determining eligibility can differ. The FR-44 requirement is a state financial responsibility obligation, while the length of time a DUI affects insurance pricing is a separate issue. 

Drivers may still face higher premiums after the filing is removed. Maintaining a clean driving record and comparing quotes periodically may help identify more affordable coverage options. Learn more about how a DUI can affect car insurance and why premiums may remain elevated. 

Practical Steps for Florida Drivers After a First DUI Conviction 

After a first DUI conviction, focus on completing the required steps in the correct order: 

1. Review Your FLHSMV Notice: Confirm the revocation period, FR-44 requirement, and reinstatement conditions. 

2. Determine Your Policy Needs: Find out whether an owner or eligible non-owner policy is appropriate. 

3. Compare FR-44 Quotes: Request pricing from insurance companies that handle Florida filings. 

4. Confirm Payment Requirements: Ask about filing fees, premiums, and upfront payment conditions. 

5. Arrange the Filing: Make sure your insurance company submits the required documentation. 

6. Verify Reinstatement: Confirm that FLHSMV has restored your driving privileges before driving. 

7. Maintain Coverage: Keep the qualifying policy active throughout the required period. 

An insurance agent familiar with Florida FR-44 requirements can help you compare available options. 

Florida FR-44 After a First DUI: Key Takeaways 

• An FR-44 Is Proof of Financial Responsibility: It verifies that a driver meets Florida’s higher liability requirements after a qualifying DUI conviction. 

• Florida Requires Higher Limits: The required amounts are $100,000 per person/$300,000 per accident for bodily injury and $50,000 per accident for property damage. 

• The Requirement Generally Lasts Three Years: Confirm the applicable period with FLHSMV, particularly after reinstatement. 

• Filing Fees and Premiums Are Different: The filing fee is an administrative expense, while the insurance premium pays for ongoing coverage. 

• Avoid Coverage Lapses: Cancellation or interruption of required coverage can affect your driving privileges. 

Get Help With Florida FR-44 Insurance Through Freeway 

Finding insurance after a first DUI can be challenging, especially when you need higher liability limits and an FR-44 filing. Freeway Insurance can help Florida drivers explore available policies, compare quotes, and understand filing requirements. 

Ready to explore your options? Get an auto insurance quote online, call Freeway at 800-777-5620, or find a Freeway Insurance office near you to discuss available Florida FR-44 coverage. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Florida FR-44 Insurance After a First DUI 

Do I always need an FR-44 after a first DUI in Florida? 

A qualifying DUI conviction under Florida law typically triggers the higher financial responsibility requirement. The exact obligation depends on the disposition of your case, so confirm your requirements with FLHSMV and your attorney. 

Can I drive while waiting for my FR-44 to be filed? 

Having an insurance policy or paying for an FR-44 filing does not automatically restore your driving privileges. You must wait until FLHSMV has reinstated your license or granted an applicable restricted driving privilege. 

Can I switch insurance companies while I have an FR-44 requirement? 

You may be able to change insurance companies during the required period. Arrange for the new company to provide qualifying coverage and submit the necessary filing before your previous coverage ends. 

Does FR-44 insurance cover damage to my own vehicle? 

The FR-44 requirement concerns financial responsibility and liability limits, not physical damage coverage for your vehicle. Collision and comprehensive insurance are separate protections that may be available or required by a lender. 

Will a Florida FR-44 requirement follow me if I move to another state? 

Moving does not automatically eliminate an outstanding Florida financial responsibility requirement. Before changing your license or insurance, contact FLHSMV and your insurance company to determine how to maintain compliance.