SR-22 vs. FR-44: What's the Difference?
Both are financial responsibility forms, but FR-44 requires significantly higher coverage limits. Here's a detailed comparison.
Overview
SR-22 and FR-44 are both certificates of financial responsibility filed by your insurance company with the state DMV. The key difference is that FR-44 requires much higher liability limits and is only used in Florida and Virginia for DUI/DWI-related offenses.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | SR-22 | FR-44 |
|---|---|---|
| States Used | Nearly all states | Florida & Virginia only |
| Triggers | DUI, no insurance, violations, etc. | DUI/DWI convictions only |
| Coverage Limits | State minimum requirements | Significantly higher limits |
| FL Bodily Injury | 10/20 (state min) | 100/300 |
| FL Property Damage | $10,000 | $50,000 |
| VA Bodily Injury | 25/50 (state min) | 50/100 |
| VA Property Damage | $20,000 | $40,000 |
| Filing Period | Typically 3 years | Typically 3 years |
| Cost Impact | 30–150% premium increase | 50–200% premium increase |
| Filing Process | Insurer files with DMV | Insurer files with DMV |
Florida FR-44 Requirements
In Florida, if you're convicted of DUI/DWI, you'll need an FR-44 instead of an SR-22. The FR-44 requires $100,000 per person / $300,000 per accident for bodily injury liability and $50,000 for property damage. These are 10x higher than Florida's standard minimums.
Virginia FR-44 Requirements
Virginia's FR-44 requires $50,000 per person / $100,000 per accident for bodily injury and $40,000 for property damage. While lower than Florida's FR-44 requirements, these are still double Virginia's standard minimums.
Why FR-44 Costs More
Because FR-44 requires higher coverage limits, the insurance premiums are naturally higher. You're paying for more coverage, and you're already classified as high-risk due to the DUI conviction. Expect to pay 20–40% more than you would with a standard SR-22 in another state.
What If I Move?
If you move from Florida or Virginia to another state while under an FR-44 requirement, you'll need to check with both states' DMVs. You may need to maintain FR-44 in your former state while also meeting your new state's requirements. Consult with your insurer and both DMVs for specific guidance.