If you’ve been convicted of certain driving offenses in Florida, including DUI, you may be required to carry FR44 insurance to legally operate a vehicle again. For residents of Orlando, FR44 insurance is a specialized form of coverage that’s often misunderstood—but absolutely critical. In this article, we’ll explain everything you need to know about Orlando FR44 insurance, how it works, who needs it, and where to find the best policy.
What Is FR44 Insurance?
FR44 insurance is a financial responsibility certificate required by the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) for drivers convicted of serious offenses, especially DUI or DWI violations. Unlike SR22, which covers less severe infractions, FR44 mandates higher liability coverage limits.
In Florida, an FR44 policy must include at least:
● $100,000 bodily injury per person
● $300,000 bodily injury per accident
● $50,000 property damage liability
This coverage ensures that high-risk drivers are financially responsible if they cause another accident while on the road.
Why You Might Need FR44 Insurance in Orlando
You may be required to obtain Orlando FR44 insurance if you’ve been convicted of any of the following:
● Driving under the influence (DUI)
● Driving while license suspended or revoked
● Driving without insurance
● Committing a felony with a vehicle
Once the state notifies you of this requirement, you’ll need to file an FR44 certificate through a licensed insurance provider before you can reinstate your license.
How Long Do You Need to Maintain FR44 in Florida?
In most cases, the FR44 filing must be maintained for three consecutive years from the date your license is reinstated. Failing to maintain this coverage can lead to license suspension, additional fines, and delays in your driving privileges.
Key Features of Orlando FR44 Insurance
Here are the primary characteristics of FR44 insurance policies in Orlando:
● Non-cancelable by the insurer without proper notice
● Must meet higher liability limits than standard policies
● Includes a certificate filed directly with the FLHSMV
● Often requires full payment upfront before activation
● Can apply to both owners and non-owners of vehicles
It’s important to work with a knowledgeable agent who understands Florida FR44 requirements to avoid delays and penalties. One reliable resource is 5 Star Insurance Orlando FR44, offering affordable, compliant policies for high-risk drivers.
Cost of FR44 Insurance in Orlando
FR44 insurance in Orlando is typically more expensive than standard auto insurance. The higher cost is due to:
● Your status as a high-risk driver
● Mandatory higher liability limits
● Potential additional fees (e.g., reinstatement and filing fees)
On average, drivers can expect to pay $1,500 to $3,000 annually, though this varies based on driving history, age, gender, vehicle type, and more.
Ways to Save on FR44 Insurance
While FR44 insurance comes at a premium, there are several ways to reduce your rates:
● Compare quotes from multiple providers
● Take a court-approved defensive driving course
● Maintain a clean driving record moving forward
● Opt for a non-owner FR44 policy if you don’t own a car
● Increase deductibles on optional coverages like collision and comprehensive
Owner vs. Non-Owner FR44 Policies
Depending on your vehicle ownership status, you’ll either need an:
● Owner FR44 policy, if you own and drive your own car
● Non-owner FR44 policy, if you don’t own a car but still drive occasionally (e.g., rental or borrowed vehicles)
Non-owner FR44 policies are typically cheaper since they only include liability coverage, with no need for comprehensive or collision.
How to Get FR44 Insurance in Orlando
To get started, follow these steps:
- Contact a licensed insurance provider that offers FR44 policies in Florida.
- Request a quote based on your driving history and vehicle details.
- Choose between owner or non-owner coverage.
- Pay the premium in full (most companies don’t offer monthly payments).
- The insurer will file the FR44 certificate with the FLHSMV on your behalf.
Once the certificate is filed, you’ll be eligible to reinstate your license with the Florida DMV.
Reinstating Your Florida Driver’s License
After securing FR44 insurance, you must complete the following to reinstate your driving privileges:
● Submit proof of FR44 filing
● Pay reinstatement fees
● Complete any court-mandated programs (e.g., DUI school)
● Wait until any required suspension periods are complete
Only after meeting all state requirements will your driver’s license be restored.
What Happens If Your FR44 Policy Lapses?
If your FR44 insurance lapses or is canceled, the insurer is legally required to notify the FLHSMV immediately. This will likely result in:
● Immediate license suspension
● Additional fines and fees
● Restarting your 3-year FR44 obligation period
To avoid this, always renew your policy on time, and inform your provider if any changes occur.
Conclusion: Rebuilding Your Driving Record Starts with FR44
FR44 insurance isn’t just a legal requirement—it’s an opportunity to start over and demonstrate that you’re a responsible driver. Whether you're looking for affordable owner or non-owner FR44 policies in Orlando, working with a specialized agency can help you navigate the process smoothly.
Don’t let a past mistake ruin your driving future. With proper guidance and the right policy, you can get back on the road and work toward regaining full insurance privileges.
For affordable and fast Orlando FR44 insurance, trust the experts at 5 Star Insurance to help you meet state requirements and get you back behind the wheel.
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