What Is an FR-44? A Detailed Guide for Drivers

If you’ve been told you need an FR-44, you may feel overwhelmed or unsure where to start. Many drivers are unfamiliar with this requirement until they face a major violation. The good news: an FR-44 is easy to understand once you break it down.

In this guide, we explain what an FR-44 is, why it’s required, how it differs from an SR-22, how to get one, and how long it lasts. By understanding the process, you’ll know exactly what steps to take to get back on the road legally.

What Is an FR-44?

An FR-44 is not insurance. It is a certificate of financial responsibility filed by your insurance company to prove that you carry higher-than-normal liability insurance limits.

 

Only two states currently require FR-44 filings:

• Florida

• Virginia

Compared to an SR-22, an FR-44 mandates significantly higher liability limits, making it a more serious form of documentation.

Why Would You Need an FR-44?

An FR-44 is typically required after severe driving violations, such as:

• DUI or DWI convictions

• Driving under the influence of drugs

• Extreme reckless driving

• Driving with a revoked or suspended license related to alcohol or drug offenses

Because these violations pose a high level of risk, states require drivers to carry increased insurance coverage to protect other motorists.

FR-44 vs. SR-22: What’s the Difference?

While both forms verify that you are insured, the FR-44 and SR-22 differ in key ways:

FR-44

• Requires much higher liability limits

• Used only in Florida and Virginia

• Primarily for alcohol- or drug-related offenses

SR-22

• Requires minimum state liability limits

• Used in many states nationwide

• Can be required for a wide range of violations

If your state mandates an FR-44, meeting these higher coverage requirements is necessary for reinstating your driving privileges.

How Do You Get an FR-44?

Here’s what you need to do:

1. Contact your insurance provider
   Not all insurers offer FR-44 filings, so you may need a company that specializes in high-risk insurance.

2. Allow your insurer to file the FR-44
   The insurance company must submit the form on your behalf—you cannot file it yourself.

3. Pay the filing fee
   This usually ranges from $15 to $50, depending on your state.

4. Maintain continuous coverage
   If your policy lapses, your insurer is obligated to notify the state, which could restart your filing period or suspend your license again.
   
   

   How Long Do You Need an FR-44?

   Most drivers must maintain an FR-44 filing for three years, though the duration may vary depending on your state and specific violation.

   Any lapse in coverage can restart the required time period, so it’s important to keep your policy active.

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   Does an FR-44 Increase Insurance Rates?

    

   Yes. Because of the severity of the violations associated with FR-44 filings and the higher liability limits, insurance premiums are typically higher. However, specialized insurance agencies can help you find more affordable options.
   
   

   Types of FR-44 Policies

    

   Depending on your situation, your policy may be:

   • Owner FR-44: If you own a vehicle

   • Non-Owner FR-44: If you do not own a car but need to reinstate your license

   • Owner/Operator FR-44: Covers both owned and non-owned vehicles

   Your agent will help determine the correct type.

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   Need Insurance With Only a Permit? Michaels Insurance Group Can Help
   
   

   Whether you need an FR-44, an SR-22, or insurance with just a learner’s permit, our team can help you find the right policy at the right price.

    

   Get a FREE quote today:
   
   📞 (631) 629-2233
   📞 (386) 274-8150

    

    

   We make the process quick, simple, and stress-free—so you can get back on the road with confidence.