Why Does Someone Need an FR-44? A Complete Guide to FR-44 Insurance Requirements
If you’ve recently been convicted of a DUI or a similar offense in Florida or Virginia, you’ve likely come across the term FR-44 insurance.
This certificate is filed with the state to prove that you carry at least the minimum liability insurance coverage required for high-risk drivers. Below, we’ll explore why someone needs an FR-44, what it entails, and the specific requirements for Florida and Virginia.
What Is FR-44 Insurance?
Despite the name, FR-44 insurance isn’t an insurance policy but a state-mandated certificate that proves you meet enhanced liability coverage requirements.
After serious traffic offenses, such as a DUI, the state requires FR-44 insurance to ensure you can cover potential damages if you cause an accident. The FR-44 certificate is filed by your insurance company to verify that your policy complies with the higher liability limits required for reinstating your license.
Why Does Someone Need an FR-44?
The primary reason someone needs an FR-44 certificate is to reinstate their driving privileges after a DUI or a similar offense. Without this filing, if required by authorities, the state won’t allow you to drive legally. The FR-44 certificate serves as proof that you have the necessary insurance coverage to operate a vehicle responsibly.
In Florida and Virginia, a DUI conviction comes with strict consequences, typically including the requirement to carry liability coverage at levels much higher than what’s required of other drivers. By enforcing the FR-44 filing, the state ensures that high-risk drivers can financially protect others on the road.
FR-44 Insurance Requirements in Florida and Virginia
Both Florida and Virginia mandate FR-44 filings for certain offenses, but the specific requirements differ slightly between the states. Here’s a closer look:
Florida FR-44 Insurance Requirements
In Florida, an FR-44 certificate proves you carry the following minimum liability coverage:
- $100,000 for bodily injury per person
- $300,000 for bodily injury per accident
- $50,000 for property damage
These coverage amounts are significantly higher than Florida’s standard requirements for drivers without a DUI conviction. The FR-44 insurance filing is typically (or generally) required for at least three years, although this period can vary depending on your case. If you own a car, your insurance policy must include this vehicle, but non-owners may purchase a specialized non-owner FR-44 policy instead.
Virginia FR-44 Insurance Requirements
Virginia’s FR-44 filing requirements are similar but slightly lower. Virginia’s minimum requirements are increasing as of January 1, 2025 as noted below.
- $60,000 for bodily injury per person ($100,000 after 1/1/2025)
- $120,000 for bodily injury per accident ($200,000 after 1/1/2025)
- $40,000 for property damage ($50,000 after 1/1/2025)
As in Florida, the FR-44 certificate in Virginia must remain on file for at least three years, and continuous coverage is mandatory. Any lapse in coverage can result in additional penalties, including license suspension and a potential reset of the filing period.
Is FR-44 Insurance the Same as Regular Insurance?
Not quite. While the FR-44 certificate is linked to your insurance policy, it’s not auto insurance itself. Instead, it’s a document your insurance company files with the state to confirm your policy meets the stricter liability limits. The certificate acts as proof of financial responsibility, ensuring you’re prepared to cover damages if an accident occurs.
Drivers often confuse FR-44 filings with regular insurance because the certificate is obtained through your insurance provider. However, purchasing an insurance policy that meets the heightened requirements is just one step. The FR-44 filing adds an extra layer of compliance for drivers considered high-risk.
What Is the Cost of FR-44 Insurance?
The cost of an FR-44 filing includes both the certificate itself and the increased premiums for the required higher coverage limits. While the filing fee is usually nominal, the actual insurance premiums can be significantly higher due to:
- Higher liability requirements due to your conviction with the state
- The high-risk designation associated with a DUI or similar offense with your insurance company
- Other personal factors like your age, driving history, and the type of vehicle you own
For example, in Florida, premiums for an FR-44 policy can double or triple compared to standard coverage, and many providers require full payment upfront. In Florida, a standard policy with vehicle coverage might reasonably cost between $90 to $1,677 per month. Non owner’s policies may be significantly lower.
Virginia drivers face similar challenges. An FR-44 policy with vehicle coverage can reasonably run between $90 and $1,000 per month, depending on factors including those listed above. Non-owner's policies that are liability-only coverage are typically much less.
How Long Do You Need an FR-44 Certificate?
In most cases, both Florida and Virginia require FR-44 insurance to remain active for at least three years to comply with state regulations. During this time, maintaining continuous coverage is critical. Any lapse in your insurance policy could result in severe penalties, including suspension of your license and a requirement to restart the FR-44 filing period.
How to Obtain an FR-44 Certificate
Obtaining FR-44 insurance starts with purchasing a policy that meets your state’s heightened liability requirements for high-risk drivers. From there, your insurance provider will handle the filing with the state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). This process ensures your policy is compliant and that your FR-44 certificate is on record.
Agents familiar with FR-44 requirements can help you find an affordable policy that meets state mandates. Working with a licensed insurance agent can help you:
- Simplify the process of securing a compliant policy and submitting the FR-44 form on time.
- Navigate the filing process to avoid delays.
- Understand your options, such as non-owner FR-44 policies if you don’t own a vehicle.
Working with an independent insurance agent, like those at Breathe Easy Insurance, also allows you to instantly compare quotes from a list of DUI-friendly insurance companies to find your best rate.
Why Choose Breathe Easy Insurance?
Navigating FR-44 filings and securing the necessary insurance coverage can be overwhelming, especially after a DUI. That’s where Breathe Easy Insurance can help. Our experienced agents specialize in assisting high-risk drivers in Florida and Virginia, ensuring you get the right policy at the best possible rate.
We’ll handle the FR-44 filing on your behalf, so you can focus on moving forward. Whether you own a car or need a non-owner policy, our staff of FR-44-familiar insurance agents will help you tailor your coverage to fit your needs.
Take Action Today
If you’re required to carry FR-44 insurance, don’t wait to get started. Contact Breathe Easy Insurance today to speak with a licensed agent. We’ll help you understand your state’s requirements, find affordable coverage, and file your FR-44 certificate with ease.
As an independent brokerage, Breathe Easy puts your needs above those of the insurance companies. Let us help you get back on the road—responsibly and affordably.
