Florida plays by its own rules when it comes to high-risk driver filings, and that trips up a lot of people. If you have been told you need SR22 insurance in Florida, the first thing to know is that many serious cases actually call for a different form called an FR44. Getting the right one matters, because filing the wrong form can delay your license reinstatement.
This guide walks through how Florida handles SR22 and FR44 filings in 2026, the coverage limits you must carry, and how long you need to keep the filing active.
Key Facts at a Glance
| Topic | Florida rule |
|---|---|
| SR22 used for | Non-DUI violations, such as no insurance |
| FR44 used for | Most DUI convictions |
| SR22 minimum limits | 10/20/10 liability |
| FR44 minimum limits | 100/300/50 liability |
| Typical filing length | Around three years, varies by case |
SR22 Insurance in Florida: The Basics
An SR22 is not a policy. It is a certificate your insurance company files with the state to prove you carry at least the required liability coverage. Florida uses it to confirm that high-risk drivers stay insured after certain violations.
What makes Florida unusual is the second form, the FR44. As of July 2026, Florida generally requires an FR44 rather than an SR22 for DUI convictions, while SR22 covers other violations. Knowing which one applies to your case is the starting point.
When You Need an SR22
In Florida, an SR22 is typically tied to non-DUI problems. As of July 2026, common triggers include:
- Driving without insurance or valid registration
- Racking up too many points on your license
- Reckless driving that leads to a suspension
For these situations, Florida generally requires SR22 coverage with liability limits of 10/20/10. That means $10,000 for bodily injury per person, $20,000 per accident, and $10,000 for property damage.
When You Need an FR44 Instead
DUI cases are where Florida diverges from most states. As of July 2026, a DUI conviction typically requires an FR44 filing with much higher limits of 100/300/50. That breaks down to $100,000 for bodily injury per person, $300,000 per accident, and $50,000 for property damage.
Those higher limits usually mean a higher premium than a standard SR22. FR44 filings are commonly required for about three years after a DUI conviction, though your exact situation may differ.
How the Filing Process Works
Your insurance company handles the actual filing. Once you buy a policy that meets the required limits, the insurer submits the SR22 or FR44 form electronically to the state of Florida.
The form confirms you carry the mandated liability coverage. As of July 2026, one timing detail matters for DUI cases: the required period often does not start counting until your license is actually reinstated, not from the date of conviction. That is why keeping coverage active without gaps is so important.
Steps to Get Filed
Getting set up usually follows a simple path:
- Confirm with the Florida DMV whether you need SR22 or FR44
- Find an insurer that offers the filing and required limits
- Buy a policy that meets the correct liability minimums
- Ask the insurer to submit the filing to the state
- Confirm the state has received and accepted it
A short checklist up front can save you from a rejected filing later.
What SR22 and FR44 Coverage Costs
There is no single price, because rates depend on your record, your location, and the insurer. The filing fee itself is usually small, often around $15 to $25, but the bigger cost is the higher premium that comes with being labeled a high-risk driver.
FR44 policies tend to cost more than SR22 policies because they require much higher liability limits. As of July 2026, rates vary widely between companies for the same driver, so shopping around for the cheapest SR22 insurance genuinely pays off.
Comparing Quotes in Florida
Comparison tools like Insurify let you enter your details once and view quotes from several insurers, which makes it easier to lower your car insurance rate.
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Some insurers, like Lemonade, focus on a fully online experience, though not every company files SR22 or FR44 forms in every state.
Check that a provider actually offers Florida filings before you commit. Terms and conditions apply, and coverage and limits vary by policy.
Lemonade
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Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need SR22 or FR44 after a Florida DUI?
As of July 2026, Florida generally requires an FR44 rather than an SR22 for most DUI convictions. The FR44 carries higher liability limits of 100/300/50. Confirm your exact requirement with the Florida DMV, since your case details matter.
How long do I have to keep an SR22 in Florida?
Most Florida filings run around three years, though the length depends on your violation. For DUI-related FR44 filings, the clock often does not start until your license is reinstated. A coverage lapse can restart the period, so keep your policy active.
Can I compare SR22 insurance quotes online in Florida?
Yes. Tools like Insurify let you compare quotes from multiple insurers at once so you can find a competitive rate. Just confirm each company actually offers Florida SR22 or FR44 filings before you buy, since availability varies.
What happens if my SR22 policy lapses in Florida?
A lapse is a serious risk. Your insurer typically reports a canceled SR22 or FR44 policy to the state, which can suspend your license again and restart your filing period. Keeping continuous coverage is the safest way to finish your term on time.
Florida's SR22 and FR44 rules are stricter than most states — the rules for SR22 insurance in Texas or SR22 insurance in Indiana look quite different — so getting the details right the first time saves time and stress. Ready to compare quotes and find coverage that meets your filing requirement? Start your research with Firstcard today and move forward with confidence.
