Car insurance in Florida is already expensive compared to most states, but if you are convicted of driving under the influence, the costs can skyrocket. A DUI conviction affects nearly every aspect of your driving privileges, and one of the biggest consequences is how much more you will pay for auto insurance. If you are wondering how much is car insurance after a DUI in Florida, the reality is that premiums can more than double. Insurance companies see DUI convictions as one of the highest risk factors for drivers, which is why rates increase dramatically.
Why a DUI Impacts Car Insurance So Heavily
Insurance companies base their rates on risk. A driver with a clean record and no history of violations presents less risk, while someone convicted of driving under the influence is viewed as a high-risk policyholder. In Florida, a DUI stays on your driving record for 75 years. That means insurers cannot ignore the conviction, and it will affect your rates for years to come.
The increase in your premium after a DUI depends on your specific situation, including your age, driving history, and insurance company. On average, Florida drivers can expect their car insurance costs to rise by 70% to 100% after a DUI. This means if you were paying $2,000 per year before, your rates could jump to $3,500 or even more.
SR-22 and FR-44 Requirements
One of the unique aspects of Florida DUI cases is the requirement for special insurance certificates. After a DUI conviction, the state may require you to file an FR-44 form, which is proof of high-risk insurance coverage. Unlike the SR-22, which is common in other states, the FR-44 requires you to carry higher liability limits than the Florida minimum. This not only raises your premium but also ensures you have sufficient coverage in case of another incident.
Filing an FR-44 means you must maintain continuous coverage for at least three years. If your policy lapses or you fail to pay your premium, your license can be suspended again. This requirement adds another layer of financial strain because insurers charge higher rates to provide FR-44 policies.
Average Cost of Car Insurance After a DUI in Florida
While every case is different, data shows that Florida drivers pay some of the highest post-DUI insurance premiums in the nation. The average cost of car insurance after a DUI in Florida ranges from $3,000 to $6,000 per year depending on the insurer and the driver’s background. Younger drivers and those with previous accidents or violations will pay on the higher end of that range.
Premiums can also vary by city. Drivers in areas like Miami, Orlando, and Tampa tend to face higher costs due to more traffic, higher accident rates, and increased insurance fraud. Those in smaller towns may pay slightly less, but the overall increase after a DUI is unavoidable statewide.
How Long Will a DUI Affect Insurance Rates?
In Florida, a DUI conviction affects your insurance for years. While the legal penalties may end after license suspension, fines, and mandatory classes, insurers continue to view you as a high-risk driver. Typically, you can expect higher premiums for at least three to five years after the conviction, though the DUI remains on your record much longer. After several years of safe driving, your rates may gradually decrease, but they will almost always remain higher compared to drivers without a DUI.
Steps to Lower Car Insurance After a DUI
Although the increase in premiums is significant, there are ways to lower your costs over time. Shopping around for different insurers can make a big difference since some companies specialize in high-risk drivers and may offer better rates. Completing defensive driving courses, maintaining a clean record after your DUI, and avoiding any further violations are essential for gradually reducing your premium.
You can also explore raising your deductible, bundling auto insurance with home or renters insurance, and asking about discounts that may still apply. While you cannot erase the DUI, you can take steps to show insurers that you are working to become a lower-risk driver.
Legal and Financial Consequences Beyond Insurance
The cost of car insurance after a DUI is only part of the financial burden. Florida imposes fines, court costs, license reinstatement fees, and mandatory DUI education programs. In some cases, you may also be required to install an ignition interlock device, which adds another ongoing expense. When combined with higher insurance rates, a single DUI conviction can cost tens of thousands of dollars over time.
This makes prevention and responsible driving crucial. Avoiding impaired driving not only keeps you safe but also prevents the financial devastation that comes with a DUI.
Why Florida’s DUI Laws Are So Strict
Florida takes impaired driving very seriously because of the high number of accidents and fatalities linked to DUIs. Strict penalties are designed to discourage drivers from getting behind the wheel after drinking. For insurers, these laws highlight the risks involved with covering drivers who have DUI convictions. As a result, insurance companies in Florida charge some of the steepest penalties in the nation when setting post-DUI rates.
Conclusion
The cost of car insurance after a DUI in Florida is substantially higher than standard premiums. Drivers can expect their rates to double or more, and additional requirements like the FR-44 make coverage even more expensive. These increased costs can last for years, adding to the already heavy financial burden of a DUI conviction.
If you are struggling with the cost of auto insurance after a DUI, reach out to Car Insurance Florida. Our team can help you find the most affordable coverage options available and guide you through the process of meeting Florida’s requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much will my insurance increase after a DUI in Florida?
On average, Florida drivers see their premiums rise by 70% to 100% after a DUI conviction, though costs vary by insurer and driver history.
What is an FR-44 and why do I need it after a DUI?
An FR-44 is a special insurance certificate required after certain DUI convictions in Florida. It requires higher liability limits and proves you have continuous coverage.
How long does a DUI stay on my record in Florida?
A DUI remains on your driving record for 75 years in Florida, meaning insurers will always see it. However, premium increases typically last three to five years.
Can I lower my insurance rates after a DUI?
Yes, by maintaining a clean driving record, shopping for different insurers, taking defensive driving courses, and bundling policies, you may be able to gradually reduce your premium.
Is Florida the most expensive state for DUI-related insurance?
Florida consistently ranks among the most expensive states for post-DUI insurance due to strict laws, high accident rates, and mandatory FR-44 filings.