If you’ve been designated a high-risk driver, welcome to the club where your wallet takes a punch to the nose: higher rates, fewer carriers willing to insure you, and the headache of filing additional paperwork (SR-22/FR-44) with your state.
In this post, we’ll break down what “high-risk” means in simple terms, why insurers increase rates, explain SR-22 vs. FR-44 certificates, provide realistic expectations for how much more you’ll pay, and — most importantly — outline practical steps you can take to lower your premiums again.
What Is a “High-Risk” Driver?
Insurance companies group drivers by risk level based on factors such as claims history, driving violations, age, driving record, and — in some states — credit score.
Typical factors that may place you in the high-risk category include:
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One or more DUI/DWI convictions
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Multiple at-fault accidents or one extremely costly claim
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Reckless driving offenses, hit-and-run incidents, or driving with a suspended license
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Repeated lapses in insurance coverage (policy cancellations or gaps of several months or more)
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Accumulating too many “moving-violation” points on your license
Essentially, these violations indicate to insurance underwriters that you have a higher likelihood of filing another claim in the future. Higher risk equals higher premiums.
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SR-22 and FR-44 Certificates Explained
If you’ve been ordered to show proof of financial responsibility — meaning you carry at least the state’s minimum liability insurance — SR-22 and FR-44 certificates are filings submitted by your insurer to the state confirming that coverage.
SR-22
A Certificate of Financial Responsibility required by most U.S. states after DUI/DWI convictions or other serious offenses. It simply confirms that you have insurance; an SR-22 does not provide insurance itself.
FR-44
A certificate required by certain states (notably Florida and Virginia) instead of — or in addition to — an SR-22 for serious DUI offenders. FR-44 filings typically require higher liability limits than SR-22s.
SR-22 and FR-44 filings are usually required for a fixed period (typically 1–5 years). During that time, your insurance cannot lapse — or you risk losing your license again. Policies with SR-22 or FR-44 filings almost always come with higher premiums.
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How Much More Will High-Risk Drivers Pay?
Rates vary widely based on the offense, state, insurer, and your personal driving history, but some general patterns apply:
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DUI convictions often lead to substantial premium increases. Many drivers see rates rise by 50% or more, and in some cases premiums can double or triple.
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At-fault accidents usually cause increases as well, though triple-digit hikes are less common unless multiple accidents occur.
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According to the NAIC, average auto insurance premiums nationwide have increased in recent years due to rising claim severity and repair costs.
Layer high-risk penalties on top of an already rising baseline, and the result is clear: expect to pay significantly more.
If you were paying $1,000 per year before, a DUI or repeated violations could raise that figure to $1,500–$3,000 per year — or more.
Where to Find Car Insurance If You’re High-Risk
Not all insurers will write SR-22 policies — and not all companies will insure drivers with serious violations. Your main options include:
Standard insurers that allow SR-22 filings
Many major carriers will insure high-risk drivers and file SR-22s, but expect much higher premiums. Check each company’s website to confirm availability in your state.
Non-standard (high-risk) insurers
These companies specialize in non-standard auto insurance. They’re often more expensive than traditional carriers but are more likely to offer coverage.
State assigned-risk plans
If no insurer will cover you, your state likely has an assigned-risk pool that forces participating insurers to provide minimum coverage. Premiums here are usually very high.
Independent insurance agents
Independent agents can shop your policy across both standard and non-standard carriers and may uncover discounts or payment options you wouldn’t find on your own.
Related: Why Responsible Couples Think About Insurance Early
Can I Lower My Coverage?
This is often the first question drivers ask when facing higher premiums. Cutting coverage can reduce costs — but proceed with caution:
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State-minimum liability coverage is mandatory if you have an SR-22.
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If your vehicle is financed or leased, your lender likely requires collision and comprehensive coverage.
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Raising your deductible can lower premiums, but only if you can afford the higher out-of-pocket cost after a claim.
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You may drop optional coverages, but never reduce liability below state minimums.
Some high-risk drivers choose to carry only state-minimum coverage while rebuilding their record. It’s a pragmatic choice — but not without financial risk.
Related: What Is Divorce Insurance?
How Can I Lower My Premium?
You can’t erase a major violation overnight, but you can take steps that improve your rates over time:
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Maintain continuous coverage. Insurance lapses are heavily penalized — even past gaps can affect your pricing.
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Complete all required programs. DUI education, substance-abuse courses, or defensive driving classes may be mandatory or qualify you for discounts.
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Drive incident-free. Major violations typically affect rates for 3–7 years, depending on your state and insurer.
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Shop annually. Some insurers specialize in improving pricing for non-standard risks at renewal.
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Ask about bundling. Combining auto and home insurance may reduce overall costs.
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Consider telematics programs. Usage-based insurance that monitors safe driving habits can lead to discounts.
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Explore payment plans. Monthly payments with low or no financing fees can make premiums easier to manage.
Over time, violations become less expensive. Most carry their steepest penalties during the first three years, though full normalization may take five to seven years.
Avoid These Common High-Risk Driver Mistakes
If you want cheaper insurance, avoid these costly missteps:
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Assuming an SR-22 is insurance — it’s not. You still need a policy.
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Allowing coverage to lapse — even after your SR-22 period ends.
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Confusing SR-22 and FR-44 requirements.
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Misunderstanding your state’s rules. Filing periods, fees, coverage limits, and penalties vary by state — always confirm with your DMV.
How Long Does a High-Risk Designation Last?
It depends — but the key takeaway is not forever.
For most drivers, high-risk surcharges gradually decrease over time as long as no new violations occur.
Example Timeline: DUI Conviction
Years 0–1
Pay court costs, complete penalties, possible license suspension, obtain SR-22 insurance at much higher rates.
Years 1–3
Maintain coverage, complete required programs, shop insurance annually. Rates remain elevated.
Years 3–7
Rates gradually decline. Depending on state laws and insurer policies, you may return to standard pricing once the violation ages off your record.
Drivers who keep coverage active and avoid further incidents usually recover — and you likely will too.
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