Florida uses two financial-responsibility filings: an SR-22 for most violations and an FR-44 after a DUI. Both prove you carry at least state-minimum liability, but an FR-44 demands much higher limits (100/300/50 versus 10/20/10). You must keep the filing for three years from your reinstatement date, and insurers charge $15 to $25 to file.
SR-22 and FR-44 Requirements in Florida
Florida is one of only two states (with Virginia) that uses an FR-44 in addition to the SR-22. Your insurer files the certificate with the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) to prove you carry the required liability coverage after a license suspension or serious violation.
Which form you need depends on the offense: an SR-22 covers most violations, while an FR-44 is reserved for DUI convictions and carries far higher coverage limits.
Florida SR-22 vs FR-44: Key Differences
| Feature | SR-22 | FR-44 |
|---|---|---|
| Triggering offense | Driving uninsured, license reinstatement, multiple violations | DUI or DWI conviction |
| Minimum bodily injury | $10,000 per person / $20,000 per accident | $100,000 per person / $300,000 per accident |
| Minimum property damage | $10,000 | $50,000 |
| Required duration | 3 years from reinstatement | 3 years from reinstatement |
| Typical cost impact | Moderate | Higher, due to the larger limits |
Who Needs an SR-22 or FR-44 in Florida?
FLHSMV requires a filing when you are reinstating driving privileges after certain offenses. You will generally need:
- An FR-44 after a DUI or DWI conviction
- An SR-22 after being caught driving without insurance
- An SR-22 to reinstate a license suspended for accumulated points or other violations
- A filing after an at-fault crash while uninsured
How Much Does an SR-22 or FR-44 Cost in Florida?
The filing fee itself is small — Florida insurers typically charge a one-time $15 to $25 to submit the certificate to FLHSMV. Two other costs matter more:
- The FLHSMV reinstatement fee, which ranges from $150 to $500 depending on the offense and how many times your license has been suspended.
- Your premium increase, which is driven by the underlying violation. An FR-44 usually costs more than an SR-22 because it requires the much higher 100/300/50 liability limits.
Because high-risk pricing varies widely between carriers, comparing several insurers that file in Florida is the most reliable way to lower the total cost.
How Long Do You Need It in Florida?
Florida requires you to keep an SR-22 or FR-44 on file for three years (36 months) from the date your license is reinstated. Coverage must stay continuous for the entire period.
If your policy lapses, your insurer files a cancellation notice with FLHSMV, your license is suspended again, and the three-year requirement restarts. There is no grace period.
Non-Owner SR-22 and FR-44 in Florida
If you do not own a vehicle but still need to file, a non-owner policy satisfies the Florida requirement and lets your insurer submit the SR-22 or FR-44. It provides liability coverage when you drive vehicles you do not own and generally costs less than a standard policy.
How to File an SR-22 or FR-44 in Florida
- Confirm whether you need an SR-22 or FR-44 from your FLHSMV reinstatement notice or court order.
- Get quotes from carriers that file in Florida and meet the required limits (10/20/10 for an SR-22, 100/300/50 for an FR-44).
- Buy the policy and pay the one-time filing fee.
- Pay the FLHSMV reinstatement fee.
- Keep continuous coverage for the full three years.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Florida require an SR-22 or an FR-44 after a DUI?
Florida requires an FR-44 after a DUI or DWI conviction. The FR-44 carries higher liability limits of 100/300/50, compared with 10/20/10 for a standard SR-22.
How long does an SR-22 last in Florida?
Three years from the date your license is reinstated. Coverage must remain continuous, or the requirement restarts.
How much does it cost to file an SR-22 in Florida?
Insurers typically charge a one-time filing fee of $15 to $25. You also pay an FLHSMV reinstatement fee of $150 to $500 depending on the offense.
Can I get a non-owner SR-22 in Florida?
Yes. A non-owner policy meets the requirement if you do not own a car, and it is usually cheaper than a standard auto policy.
What is the difference between an SR-22 and an FR-44 in Florida?
Both are financial-responsibility filings, but an FR-44 is required after a DUI and demands much higher liability limits (100/300/50) than an SR-22 (10/20/10).