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FR44 vs. SR22 at a glance
| FR44 | SR22 | |
|---|---|---|
| Used in | Florida & Virginia | Most other states |
| Typical trigger | DUI / DWI conviction | DUI, uninsured driving, serious violations |
| Coverage | Higher than state minimum | State minimum liability |
| Usually kept | 3 years | About 3 years (varies) |
Do you need an FR44 or an SR22?
Answer five quick questions. You'll see which filing you likely need, a rough cost range, and what to do next.
Your results will appear here.
You'll be taken to a licensed insurance professional for an official quote and filing.
What is an FR44?
An FR44 is a certificate your insurance company files with the state to prove you carry higher-than-normal liability coverage after a DUI. It is only used in Florida and Virginia.
How it works
An FR44 isn't a separate type of insurance. It is a form your insurer sends to the state's motor vehicle department confirming that your auto policy meets the higher FR44 limits.
If your policy lapses or is cancelled while the FR44 is required, the insurer must notify the state, and your license can be suspended again.
Coverage you'll need
- Florida: at least $100,000 bodily injury per person, $300,000 per accident and $50,000 property damage (100/300/50).
- Virginia: liability limits at least double the state's standard minimums. With Virginia's 2025 minimums of 50/100/25, that works out to 100/200/50.
- The FR44 is usually kept for 3 years without a lapse in coverage.
What is an SR22?
An SR22 is a certificate of financial responsibility. Your insurer files it with the state to prove you carry at least the minimum required liability insurance.
Who needs one
Drivers in most states after a DUI/DWI, driving without insurance, a license suspension, repeated violations or an at-fault accident without coverage.
How long
Usually about 3 years, though it can range from 1 to 5 years depending on the state and the offense. The clock can restart if your coverage lapses.
No car?
You can usually still meet the requirement with a non-owner policy , which covers you when you drive a car you don't own.
Some states use their own proof-of-insurance forms instead of the SR22, and requirements change. Always confirm with your state's motor vehicle department or a licensed agent.
How DUI reinstatement works
Every state is different, but most DUI reinstatements follow the same basic path.
-
Complete your suspension or revocation period
Your court order or DMV notice states how long your license is suspended and whether you qualify for a restricted or hardship license sooner.
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Finish court and program requirements
This usually means DUI school or an alcohol education program, a substance abuse evaluation, any treatment ordered, and paying fines.
-
Install an ignition interlock device, if ordered
Many states require one for a restricted license or after reinstatement, especially for repeat or high-BAC offenses.
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Get your FR44 or SR22 filed
Buy a policy that meets the required limits. Your insurer files the certificate electronically with the state.
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Pay reinstatement fees
States charge a reinstatement fee, and sometimes extra administrative fees. Amounts vary by state and offense.
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Apply to reinstate and keep coverage active
Apply through your state's motor vehicle department, then keep your insurance active for the full filing period. Any lapse is reported to the state.
Documents you'll usually need
- Valid photo identification
- FR44 or SR22 certificate on file with the state (filed by your insurer)
- Proof of completing DUI school or an alcohol education program
- Substance abuse evaluation or treatment completion, if ordered
- Court disposition and proof that fines are paid
- Ignition interlock installation certificate, if required
- Reinstatement fee payment
- Any DMV notices or hearing decisions you received
Typical timelines
| Stage | Typical time |
|---|---|
| Insurance filing (FR44/SR22) | Often filed the same day you buy the policy. The state may take a few business days to record it. |
| First-offense suspension | Commonly 6 months to 1 year. Restricted or hardship licenses may be available sooner in some states. |
| DUI school / education program | Usually a few weeks to complete, depending on class schedules. |
| Keeping the FR44 / SR22 | Usually 3 years from reinstatement or conviction, and sometimes longer for repeat offenses. |
| Repeat offenses | Longer suspensions or revocations, longer filing periods and interlock requirements are common. |
State-specific notes
Florida
- A DUI conviction requires an FR44 , not an SR22.
- FR44 liability limits: 100/300/50. Keep it for 3 years.
- Completing a state-approved DUI program is required for reinstatement, and is often needed for a business-purpose hardship license.
- An ignition interlock may be required, especially for repeat or high-BAC offenses.
- Reinstatement goes through the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV).
Virginia
- A DUI/DWI conviction requires an FR44 .
- FR44 limits are double Virginia's standard minimums. Keep it for 3 years.
- The Virginia Alcohol Safety Action Program (VASAP) is usually required.
- Restricted licenses commonly require an ignition interlock.
- Reinstatement goes through the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
This is general information, not legal advice. Fees, limits and timelines change and depend on your exact situation. Check your court order, your state's motor vehicle department, or a licensed attorney or insurance agent.
Ready to get back on the road?
Talk to a licensed insurance professional about your FR44 or SR22 filing.