If you’ve been told you need “FR-44 insurance” in Florida, the term alone can be confusing. Here’s the short version: FR-44 isn’t a separate kind of insurance policy — it’s a certificate your insurance company files with the state confirming you carry higher-than-normal liability coverage.
The basics
FR-44 stands for financial responsibility. Florida (along with Virginia) uses this specific form instead of the more widely known SR-22 for certain DUI-related cases. When a court or the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) requires an FR-44, your insurance company electronically files it on your behalf once your policy is active.
Why it exists
The FR-44 requirement is designed to make sure drivers with certain serious convictions — most commonly DUI or DWI — carry enough insurance to cover the higher risk they represent on the road. That’s why FR-44 requires higher liability limits than Florida’s standard minimum coverage.
What it’s not
It’s easy to assume FR-44 is its own product you can shop for directly, but it’s really an add-on requirement to a standard auto policy. You still choose a policy with liability, PIP, and property damage coverage — your insurer simply attaches the FR-44 filing to it.
What to do next
If you’ve received a notice requiring FR-44 insurance, the most important thing is to get compliant coverage in place before any deadline passes. Not every carrier offers FR-44 filings, so comparing options matters. Read our full FR-44 insurance guide for details on cost, duration, and how to save money, or get a free quote to start comparing carriers today.
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