FR-44 vs SR-22 in Texas: What Is the Difference?
FR-44 vs SR-22 in Texas: What’s the Difference?
If you’ve been convicted of a serious DUI in Texas, you might have been told you need an FR-44 instead of the more common SR-22. What’s the difference? And why does it matter for your wallet?
The short answer: FR-44 requires double the insurance coverage of an SR-22, which means significantly higher premiums. But not every DUI triggers FR-44 — it depends on the severity of your conviction. At EZ Insurance Agency, we help Austin drivers understand exactly what they need and find the most affordable policy.
What Is an SR-22 in Texas?
An SR-22 is a certificate of financial responsibility that proves you carry Texas minimum liability insurance:
- $30,000 bodily injury per person
- $60,000 bodily injury per accident
- $25,000 property damage per accident
Texas requires SR-22 for standard traffic violations like driving without insurance, at-fault accidents while uninsured, and first-time DWI convictions. The filing period is typically 2 years.
What Is an FR-44 in Texas?
An FR-44 is a more stringent certificate of financial responsibility required for serious alcohol-related convictions. It’s less common than SR-22 but carries much higher requirements:
- $60,000 bodily injury per person (double SR-22)
- $120,000 bodily injury per accident (double SR-22)
- $50,000 property damage per accident (double SR-22)
FR-44 is typically required for:
- Multiple DUI/DWI convictions
- DUI with injury or serious property damage
- DUI with a minor in the vehicle
- Extremely high BAC (blood alcohol content)
- Court-ordered FR-44 for repeat offenders
SR-22 vs FR-44: Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | SR-22 | FR-44 |
|---|---|---|
| Bodily injury per person | $30,000 | $60,000 |
| Bodily injury per accident | $60,000 | $120,000 |
| Property damage per accident | $25,000 | $50,000 |
| Typical annual premium | $1,800 – $3,500 | $3,200 – $5,500+ |
| Filing period | 2 years | 2–3 years |
| Filing fee | $15 – $50 | $15 – $50 |
| Who needs it | Standard violations | Serious DUI offenses |
| Non-owner option | Yes ($800–$1,800) | Rarely available |
Why FR-44 Costs So Much More
The higher cost of FR-44 isn’t just about double the liability limits. It’s also because:
- Higher risk classification: FR-44 drivers are considered the highest-risk category
- Fewer carrier options: Not all insurers offer FR-44 filing, reducing competition
- Full coverage often required: Many carriers won’t write FR-44 without collision and comprehensive
- No non-owner option: FR-44 typically requires insuring an owned vehicle
How Do I Know If I Need FR-44 or SR-22?
The Texas DPS will specify which filing you need in your court documents or license reinstatement letter. If you’re unsure:
- Check your court paperwork — it specifies the required filing
- Log into your TxDPS online account and review your license requirements
- Call the DPS driver license division at (512) 424-2600
- Call EZ Insurance Agency at (512) 444-4445 — we’ll look it up for you
Can I Downgrade from FR-44 to SR-22?
No. Once the court or DPS mandates FR-44, you must maintain it for the full filing period. You cannot “downgrade” mid-period. The only exception would be if the court modifies your requirements — which is rare and typically requires legal representation.
After your FR-44 period ends and you maintain a clean record, you can return to standard insurance rates. We recommend setting a calendar reminder for your filing end date so you can re-quote immediately.
How to Get FR-44 Insurance in Austin, TX
EZ Insurance Agency works with Texas carriers that specialize in FR-44 filings. Not every company writes these policies, so working with an independent agency is critical.
Here’s what to expect:
- Higher deposit: Many carriers require first + last month premium upfront
- Monthly payments: Most FR-44 policies are month-to-month initially
- Full coverage likely: Collision + comprehensive may be required
- Same-day filing: We file with DPS within hours of policy activation
FR-44 vs SR-22 FAQ
Is FR-44 a Texas-only requirement?
No. FR-44 is also used in Florida and Virginia, but Texas uses it specifically for serious DUI convictions. Each state has different filing requirements — if you move, your new state may require you to maintain Texas-level FR-44 coverage.
Can I get FR-44 without owning a car?
Rarely. Most carriers require FR-44 to be attached to an owned vehicle policy. A non-owner FR-44 is possible in limited situations but much harder to find and not much cheaper than standard FR-44. Call us to discuss your specific situation.
Does FR-44 affect my insurance rates longer than SR-22?
The filing period may be similar (2–3 years), but the financial impact lasts longer. A DUI conviction stays on your Texas driving record for 10 years. Even after FR-44 ends, your rates may remain elevated for 5–7 years. Maintaining continuous, clean coverage is the fastest way to lower your premiums.
Get Your FR-44 or SR-22 Quote Today
Whether you need SR-22 or FR-44, EZ Insurance Agency can help. We specialize in high-risk auto insurance and work with Texas carriers that understand your situation. Don’t let a DUI conviction keep you off the road longer than necessary.
Call (512) 444-4445 now or get a free quote online. We offer same-day filing, 6 Austin-area locations, and 30+ carrier comparisons. Get covered today.