FR-44 Insurance: Complete Florida & Virginia Guide
Quick answer: FR-44 is a DUI-specific certificate of financial responsibility used only in Florida and Virginia. It requires double the state minimum liability limits and must be maintained for 3 years. Expect to pay $180–$320/month — 30–50% more than a comparable SR-22 policy.
FR-44 vs SR-22: the differences that matter
| Feature | SR-22 | FR-44 |
|---|---|---|
| States | 49 states | FL, VA only |
| Triggers | DUI, uninsured driving, reckless driving, etc. | DUI / DWI only |
| Liability required | State minimum | 2× state minimum |
| Filing fee | $15 – $25 | $15 (FL & VA) |
| Filing period | 2–5 years (varies) | 3 years |
| Avg monthly cost | $95 – $220 | $180 – $320 |
FR-44 by state
| State | FR-44 Liability Required | Filing Period | Avg Monthly Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Florida | 100/300/50 | 3 years | $260 |
| Virginia | 50/100/40 | 3 years | $200 |
Compare FR-44 quotes in Florida and Virginia
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Best FR-44 insurance companies
Only about half of major carriers file FR-44. These are the top options in FL and VA:
| Company | Starts At | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Progressive | $110/mo | Files SR-22 electronically in most states within 24-48 hrs. |
| Dairyland (Sentry) | $75/mo | Purpose-built non-standard carrier. Fast electronic filing. |
| The General | $85/mo | Low down-payment options and monthly billing. |
| Direct Auto | $80/mo | Regional; strong for SR-22 in TX, GA, TN, MS. |
| Kemper Specialty | $88/mo | Popular through independent agents. |
| Acceptance Insurance | $95/mo | Storefront locations useful for cash payments. |
| Bristol West (Farmers) | $92/mo | Non-standard arm of Farmers Insurance. |
How to get FR-44 insurance
- Confirm your state DMV letter — DUI convictions in FL or VA trigger FR-44 requirements automatically
- Get quotes from 3+ carriers that specifically file FR-44 (see table above)
- Bind a policy with double state minimum liability limits
- Request FR-44 filing at policy binding — usually electronic and completed within 24 hours
- Maintain the policy for 3 years continuously without any lapse
Frequently Asked Questions
What is FR-44 insurance?
FR-44 is a certificate of financial responsibility required in Florida and Virginia after a DUI conviction. Like SR-22, it is filed by your insurance carrier with the state DMV. Unlike SR-22, FR-44 requires you to carry double the state minimum liability limits.
FR-44 vs SR-22: what's the difference?
FR-44 requires higher liability limits (typically double state minimum), and is only used in Florida and Virginia. SR-22 uses state minimum limits and is used in 49 states. FR-44 is triggered specifically by DUI-related convictions; SR-22 has more triggers (uninsured driving, reckless driving, etc.).
How much does FR-44 insurance cost?
FR-44 insurance in Florida averages $260/month; in Virginia averages $200/month. That is 30–50% more than a comparable SR-22 policy because of the higher liability limits required.
How long do I need FR-44?
Both Florida and Virginia require FR-44 for 3 years continuously. Any lapse restarts the clock and re-suspends your license.
Which companies file FR-44?
Not all carriers file FR-44. Progressive, Dairyland, The General, Direct Auto, Kemper Specialty, Bristol West, and Acceptance all file FR-44 in FL and VA. GEICO, State Farm, and Allstate typically do NOT file FR-44.