FR-44 vs SR-22 in Florida
Not sure whether you need FR-44 or SR-22? Both are state filings that prove financial responsibility. The difference is what triggers them and how much coverage they require. In Florida, a DUI means FR-44.
- ✓ The plain difference
- ✓ Which one a DUI triggers
- ✓ Limits compared
- ✓ How to file either
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What is the difference between FR-44 and SR-22?
Same idea, different trigger and different coverage. Your violation decides which filing the state expects.
A DUI conviction
Triggers FR-44, with roughly double the liability of a standard filing.
A lesser violation
Driving uninsured or piling up points triggers SR-22 at the state minimum.
The right filing
We confirm which one Florida wants from you and file it, so you are never guessing.
Who needs FR-44 vs who needs SR-22?
In Florida, a DUI conviction almost always means FR-44. SR-22 is for lesser violations, and it carries far lower limits.
- DUI conviction, then FR-44 is required
- Driving uninsured or points, then SR-22 may apply
- Unsure? We check the state record and confirm
The four differences that matter
Beyond the name, only a few things separate the two filings, and they all come back to your violation.
Trigger
FR-44 follows a DUI. SR-22 follows lesser violations like driving uninsured.
Coverage
FR-44 requires 100/300/50. SR-22 only requires Florida’s state minimum.
Duration
Both run about three years of continuous coverage in Florida.
Where used
FR-44 exists only in Florida and Virginia. SR-22 is used in most states.
The bottom line
- If a Florida court ordered insurance after a DUI, you almost certainly need FR-44, not SR-22.
- Because FR-44 carries higher liability, it costs more than SR-22, but comparing carriers still lowers it.
- We file both. Tell us your situation and we confirm which the state expects before you pay.
How much more coverage does FR-44 require?
This is the heart of the difference. FR-44 carries far higher liability than SR-22, which is why a DUI comes with the bigger filing.
How to get the right filing
You do not have to figure out which filing applies. We confirm it and handle the paperwork.
Tell us what happened
The violation behind the requirement tells us which filing the state expects.
We confirm FR-44 or SR-22
We check what Florida wants so you file the correct one the first time.
We file it with the state
Owner or non-owner, filed electronically with the FLHSMV, often same day.
FR-44 vs SR-22, side by side
The full comparison in one view. In Florida, a DUI points you to the left column.
| FR-44 | SR-22 | |
|---|---|---|
| Typical trigger | DUI conviction | Driving uninsured, points, other violations |
| Liability limits | 100/300/50 | State minimum (10/20/10 in FL) |
| Duration | About 3 years | About 3 years |
| States that use it | Florida & Virginia only | Most states |
| Typical cost | Higher (more coverage) | Lower |
Is FR-44 more expensive than SR-22?
Generally, yes, because FR-44 requires far more liability coverage. The filing fee is similar for both; the premium is higher for FR-44. Comparing carriers still brings it down.
What shapes your rate
We shop multiple carriers, apply every discount, and re-shop each renewal as the conviction ages and rates ease.
We confirm which filing you need and shop carriers so you never overpay.
Get my free quoteWhy drivers sort it out with us
I had no idea if I needed FR-44 or SR-22. They checked, told me it was FR-44, and filed it the same day. Made a confusing situation simple.Adam S. · Verified Google review
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FR-44 vs SR-22 questions, answered
What is the difference between FR-44 and SR-22?
Both are state filings that prove financial responsibility. FR-44 follows a DUI and requires higher liability, 100/300/50, while SR-22 follows lesser violations and requires only the state minimum. Florida uses both.
Do I need FR-44 or SR-22 after a DUI in Florida?
After a DUI conviction, Florida requires FR-44, not SR-22. FR-44 carries the higher 100/300/50 liability limits. If you are unsure, we confirm which the state expects before you pay.
Is FR-44 more expensive than SR-22?
Generally, yes, because FR-44 requires roughly double the liability coverage. The filing fee is similar; the premium is higher for FR-44. Comparing carriers still lowers the price.
Which states use FR-44?
Only Florida and Virginia use FR-44. Every other state uses SR-22 for financial-responsibility filings after driving violations.
Can one policy include both an FR-44 and an SR-22?
You file the one the state requires for your situation. We determine which applies to you and file the correct certificate; you do not need both at once.
How long do FR-44 and SR-22 last in Florida?
Both typically run about three years of continuous coverage. A lapse in either can restart the term and lead to a re-suspension, so keep the policy active.
Informational only. Not legal, financial, or insurance advice. FR-44 requirements are set by Florida (FLHSMV) and the courts and can change, so verify your specific requirement with the FLHSMV. Pricing shown is illustrative, not a quote.
FR-44 guides on this topic
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