What Is FR-44 Insurance, and Who Needs It?

FR-44 insurance refers to a certificate of financial responsibility required for drivers who have committed serious driving infractions. It serves as proof that an individual carries a specific level of liability insurance mandated by their state. This requirement typically arises after convictions for offenses such as driving under the influence (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI), or for causing serious harm while driving. The fundamental purpose of an FR-44 filing is to ensure that high-risk drivers maintain sufficient insurance coverage to protect others.

Understanding FR-44 Requirements

An FR-44 is not an insurance policy itself, but rather a document or certificate that an insurance company files with a state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or equivalent authority. This certificate verifies that a driver has purchased an auto insurance policy with specific, often elevated, liability coverage limits. The requirement typically stems from severe driving offenses, most commonly DUI or DWI convictions. Other serious infractions, such as driving with a suspended or revoked license due to a prior DUI, or convictions for causing injury or death while driving, can also trigger this filing.

The FR-44 requirement is not universal. Only Florida and Virginia mandate an FR-44 filing for certain serious driving offenses. In other states, a similar but less stringent SR-22 filing is typically used for various traffic offenses. While both FR-44 and SR-22 forms prove financial responsibility, the FR-44 requires significantly higher liability coverage limits.

FR-44 liability coverage limits are considerably higher than standard minimum auto insurance requirements. In Florida, an FR-44 typically mandates minimum liability limits of $100,000 for bodily injury per person, $300,000 for bodily injury per accident, and $50,000 for property damage liability. Virginia’s FR-44 requirements generally specify limits of $60,000 for bodily injury or death to one person, $120,000 for bodily injury or death to two or more people, and $40,000 for property damage liability. The FR-44 requirement applies to the individual driver, not a particular vehicle. Therefore, even if a driver does not own a vehicle, they may need to obtain a non-owner FR-44 policy to satisfy the state’s mandate.

Obtaining FR-44 Insurance

Acquiring an FR-44 compliant insurance policy requires finding an insurer willing to cover high-risk drivers. Not all insurance companies offer policies that meet FR-44 requirements, so individuals may need to seek out specialized insurers. The process begins with providing the insurance provider with necessary personal and offense-related information. This typically includes the driver’s license number, details of the specific offense that triggered the FR-44 requirement, and information about any vehicles to be insured.

Once a policy that meets the state’s elevated liability limits is purchased, the insurance company submits the FR-44 certificate. This certificate, also known as the FR-44 filing, is sent directly by the insurer to the relevant state authority, such as the Department of Motor Vehicles. The driver does not typically handle the direct submission of this document. The FR-44 certificate serves as a formal verification from the insurance provider, confirming that the required coverage levels are in place and active.

After the insurance company has submitted the FR-44 certificate, it is advisable for the driver to confirm with their insurer that the filing has been successfully completed. Obtaining proof of this filing for personal records is also a prudent step. This documentation can serve as evidence of compliance, which may be useful for license reinstatement or other administrative purposes. The cost of filing the FR-44 certificate itself can range from approximately $15 to $25, in addition to the premiums for the high-risk insurance policy.

Maintaining FR-44 Compliance

Maintaining continuous FR-44 compliant insurance coverage is a strict requirement for drivers. The typical duration for which FR-44 coverage is mandated is often around three years, though this period can vary depending on the state and the nature of the offense. Understanding the precise duration applicable to one’s individual situation is crucial for ongoing compliance. This involves being aware of the start and end dates of the requirement as specified by the state.

Allowing an FR-44 policy to lapse or be canceled carries significant regulatory consequences. If continuous coverage is not maintained, the state authority (e.g., DMV) will be notified by the insurance company. This notification can lead to an immediate suspension of driving privileges. In addition to license suspension, a lapse in coverage may result in an extension of the required FR-44 period, and additional fines or reinstatement fees.

To ensure continuous compliance, drivers should make timely premium payments and understand policy renewal procedures. It is important to avoid any interruption in coverage, as even a short lapse can trigger severe penalties. Regular communication with the insurance provider can help prevent oversights and ensure that all requirements are met throughout the mandated period.