High-Risk Car Insurance: What It Is, Who Needs It, and How to Get Covered

High-risk car insurance is auto coverage designed for drivers whose history may make them more expensive to insure due to accidents, violations, DUIs, coverage lapses, or court-ordered filings. High-risk driver insurance helps drivers meet state requirements and stay legally insured, even after major driving or insurance-related setbacks.

What Is High-Risk Car Insurance? 

High-risk car insurance is a type of auto insurance designed for drivers that insurers believe are more likely to file claims based on their driving history, insurance history, or other underwriting factors. 

Being labeled “high-risk” is not a moral judgment. It is simply an insurance classification used to assess risk and determine pricing. Many people become high-risk drivers because of a single mistake, a lapse in coverage during financial hardship, or because they are new drivers with limited experience behind the wheel. 

Some insurance companies choose not to insure high-risk drivers at all. Others may offer coverage with strict limitations or significantly higher premiums. Kemper Auto has specialized in helping non-standard drivers for more than 100 years and understands that every driver’s situation is different. 

If you are looking for coverage after a violation, accident, or license issue, you still have options. Kemper Auto offers flexible solutions for drivers with challenging histories, including SR-22 and FR-44 filing services where applicable. 

Get a free quote from Kemper Auto, a carrier that specializes in non-standard coverage. You can also learn more about the basics of auto insurance coverage in Kemper’s guide on how auto insurance works.  

What Is Considered High-Risk for Car Insurance? 

Insurance companies use several factors to determine whether a driver falls into the high-risk category. The more risk indicators a driver has, the more likely they are to need high-risk coverage. Common reasons a driver may be considered high-risk include:

DUI or DWI Convictions 

Driving under the influence is one of the most common reasons drivers are classified as high-risk. DUI-related violations often lead to significantly higher insurance costs and may require SR-22 or FR-44 filings, depending on the state. 

Multiple At-Fault Accidents 

Drivers with several recent accidents may be considered more likely to file future claims, especially if those accidents involved injuries or major property damage. 

Multiple Moving Violations  

Frequent speeding tickets, reckless driving citations, street racing violations, or aggressive driving offenses can increase insurance risk ratings. 

Lapsed or Missing Prior Coverage 

A gap in insurance coverage may raise concerns for insurers. Even drivers with otherwise clean records can be considered higher-risk after a lapse. 

License Suspension or Revocation 

Drivers who have had their license suspended or revoked often need specialized coverage and proof-of-insurance filings before driving privileges can be reinstated. 

Court-Ordered SR-22 or FR-44 Filing 

Some states require drivers to file proof of financial responsibility after serious offenses. These filings are often associated with high-risk driver insurance. 

Limited Driving History 

New drivers or drivers who recently moved to the United States may have little or no established insurance history, which can place them in a non-standard insurance category.

Credit-Based Insurance Factors 

In some states, insurers may consider certain credit-based insurance factors when determining risk and pricing. If any of these apply to you, Kemper Auto has decades of experience helping drivers in similar situations get back on the road. 

How High-Risk Driver Insurance Differs from Standard Insurance 

High-risk driver insurance works similarly to standard auto insurance in many ways, but there are several important differences drivers should understand. 

Higher Premiums 

Because insurers view high-risk drivers as more likely to file claims, premiums are typically higher than standard auto insurance policies. 

More Detailed Underwriting 

Insurance companies may review driving history, prior insurance coverage, court records, and state filing requirements more closely during the application process. 

Limited Availability 

Some standard insurance carriers decline high-risk applications altogether. This is why specialized insurers like Kemper play an important role in the non-standard market. 

Similar Coverage Types 

High-risk drivers can still access many of the same core coverage options as standard drivers, including: 

• Liability coverage  

• Collision coverage  

• Comprehensive coverage  

• Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage  

• Personal Injury Protection (PIP)  

Coverage availability and limits may vary by state and underwriting guidelines. 

SR-22 and FR-44 Handling 

If a filing is required by the state, the insurance carrier typically submits the paperwork directly to the DMV or appropriate state agency on behalf of the policyholder. 

SR-22 and FR-44 Filings Explained 

SR-22 and FR-44 filings are often misunderstood. They are not insurance policies themselves. Instead, they are certificates filed by an insurance company to confirm that a driver carries the minimum required liability insurance coverage mandated by the state. 

What Is an SR-22? 

An SR-22 is a financial responsibility filing required by many states after certain driving-related violations. Drivers may need an SR-22 after: 

• DUI or DWI convictions  

• Driving without insurance  

• Serious traffic violations  

• License suspension  

• Repeat offenses  

 The insurance company files the SR-22 directly with the state to verify compliance. 

What Is an FR-44? 

An FR-44 is similar to an SR-22 but typically applies after more serious violations, especially DUI convictions. FR-44 filings require significantly higher liability coverage limits than SR-22 filings. FR-44 filings are primarily used in: 

• Florida  

• Virginia  

Florida Filing Requirements:  

Florida is one of the few states that uses both SR-22 and FR-44 filings. FR-44 requirements typically apply to more serious or repeat offenses, such as DUI convictions, and require much higher liability limits than SR-22 filings. Drivers should confirm with the court or DMV which filing applies to their specific situation. 

Virginia also uses both SR-22 and FR-44 filings depending on the offense and legal requirements. 

Kemper Auto files SR-22 and FR-44 forms where applicable, helping simplify one of the more stressful parts of restoring driving privileges. Need an SR-22 or FR-44? Get a quote, and Kemper can handle the filing where applicable. 

Average Cost for High-Risk Car Insurance 

The average cost for high-risk car insurance is usually significantly higher than standard auto insurance, but pricing can vary widely depending on the driver and state. 

According to recent industry reports, high-risk drivers may pay anywhere from several hundred to several thousand dollars more per year than drivers with clean records. DUI convictions, multiple accidents, or license suspensions often result in the largest premium increases. 

Several factors affect the cost of high-risk car insurance, including: 

• State of residence  

• Driving history and severity of violations  

• How recent violations occurred  

• Vehicle type and value  

• Coverage limits selected  

• Age and driving experience  

• Prior insurance history  

• Other underwriting considerations  

Drivers required to carry SR-22 or FR-44 filings may also pay additional filing-related fees. 

Although high-risk coverage can cost more, there may still be opportunities to manage premiums responsibly. Kemper Auto offers flexible options for non-standard drivers, and eligible drivers may qualify for savings opportunities through safe driving habits and other factors. The most accurate way to know your cost is to get a personalized quote. 

Get started today! 

Coverage Types Available to High-Risk Drivers 

High-risk drivers can still access many standard auto insurance coverage options depending on eligibility and state requirements. 

Liability Coverage 

Required in nearly every state, liability insurance helps pay for injuries or property damage you cause to others in an accident. 

Comprehensive Coverage 

Comprehensive coverage helps protect against non-collision incidents such as theft, vandalism, hail damage, fire, or animal collisions. 

Collision Coverage 

Collision insurance helps cover damage to your own vehicle after an accident, regardless of fault. 

Personal Injury Protection (PIP) 

PIP coverage helps pay for medical expenses and related costs after an accident, regardless of fault, in states where PIP is required or available. 

Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage 

This coverage helps protect you if another driver causes an accident but lacks sufficient insurance. 

See full coverage details. 

How to Get High-Risk Car Insurance 

Getting high-risk car insurance may feel overwhelming at first, but the process is usually straightforward when you work with an insurer experienced in non-standard coverage. 

1. Gather Your Information 

Be prepared to provide: 

• Driver’s license or alternative ID  

• Vehicle information  

• Prior insurance information  

• Driving history details  

• Court documents related to SR-22 or FR-44 requirements, if applicable  

 Kemper Auto accepts several forms of alternative identification, including: 

• Matricula consular  

• Foreign driver’s licenses  

• Passports  

This flexibility can help drivers who may not have traditional documentation available. 

2. Request a Quote 

Drivers can request a quote online or work directly with a local agent to discuss coverage options and state requirements. 

Get a quote  

3. Discuss Filing Requirements 

If you need an SR-22 or FR-44 filing, your insurer can determine the proper filing based on your state and court requirements. 

4. Select Your Coverage 

Choose coverage limits and optional protections that fit your needs, budget, and legal obligations. 

5. Activate Your Policy 

Once coverage is active and filings are completed where applicable, you can legally return to the road. Need local help? Find an agent near you to discuss your options. 

If you ever need help after an accident, Kemper Auto also offers claims support. 

Why Choose Kemper for High-Risk Car Insurance 

Drivers searching for high-risk car insurance often need more than just a policy. They need an insurer that understands non-standard situations and has experience helping drivers move forward. 

Kemper auto has specialized in non-standard auto insurance for decades and offers flexible options designed for drivers with challenging histories. 

More Than 100 Years of Insurance Experience 

Kemper Auto has over a century of experience helping drivers protect themselves and stay insured through changing life circumstances. 

(Excellent) by AM Best Financial Strength Rating 

Kemper Auto maintains an A- (Excellent) financial strength rating from AM Best, reflecting strong claims-paying ability and financial stability. 

Nationwide Agent Network 

With agents and brokers nationwide, drivers can find local support and personalized assistance almost anywhere in the country. 

Specialized Non-Standard Coverage 

Kemper Auto focuses on serving drivers who may struggle to find affordable coverage through traditional insurers. 

SR-22 and FR-44 Filing Services 

Kemper Auto handles SR-22 and FR-44 filings where applicable, helping drivers satisfy state requirements more easily. 

Bilingual Support 

Kemper Auto provides bilingual sales, service, and claims support in most areas to better serve diverse communities across the United States. 

Acceptance of Alternative IDs 

Kemper Auto accepts alternative forms of identification, including matricula consular cards, foreign licenses, and passports. 

Flexible Coverage Options

Drivers can choose from multiple coverage options designed to meet state requirements and individual needs. 

Kemper Co-Pilot Safe Driving App 

Kemper Co-Pilot® helps drivers build safer driving habits through driving insights and support tools. 

Get a free quote and see how Kemper Auto can help. 

High-risk drivers still have options for quality auto insurance coverage. Being classified as high-risk does not mean you are uninsurable, and many drivers successfully return to lower-risk categories over time with safe driving habits and continuous coverage. 

Whether you need standard liability coverage, comprehensive protection, or SR-22 or FR-44 filings, Kemper Auto specializes in helping drivers with challenging histories find coverage that fits their situation. 

If you are shopping for high-risk car insurance, Kemper Auto offers flexible coverage options, bilingual (English-Spanish) support in most areas, alternative ID acceptance, and decades of experience serving non-standard drivers. 

• Get a personalized quote  

• Explore your coverage options  

• Find a local Kemper Auto agent near you  

FAQ 

What is considered high-risk for car insurance? 

Drivers are typically considered high-risk if they have DUI convictions, multiple accidents, serious traffic violations, lapses in insurance coverage, license suspensions, or court-ordered SR-22 or FR-44 requirements. Limited driving history and certain underwriting factors may also contribute to high-risk classification. 

How long am I considered a high-risk driver? 

The length of time varies depending on the violation, state laws, and insurance company guidelines. Many violations remain on driving records for several years. DUI-related incidents and SR-22 or FR-44 requirements often last longer than standard traffic violations. 

Does a DUI automatically make me a high-risk driver? 

In most cases, yes. DUI convictions are one of the strongest indicators insurers use when classifying drivers as high-risk. Drivers with DUI convictions may also need SR-22 or FR-44 filings, depending on state requirements. 

What is the difference between SR-22 and FR-44? 

 Both SR-22 and FR-44 are financial responsibility filings submitted by insurers to the state. However, FR-44 filings typically require much higher liability coverage limits and are generally associated with DUI-related offenses. Florida and Virginia both use FR-44 filings, while most other states primarily use SR-22 filings. Florida may require either SR-22 or FR-44 depending on the offense. 

How much does high-risk car insurance cost on average? 

High-risk car insurance costs vary widely based on location, driving history, vehicle type, and coverage selections. Drivers with serious violations such as DUIs or multiple accidents often pay significantly higher premiums than drivers with clean records. The best way to estimate your cost is to request a personalized quote. 

Can I get a quote if I have a poor driving record? 

Yes. Drivers with violations, accidents, prior lapses in coverage, or SR-22 and FR-44 requirements can still request a quote. Kemper Auto specializes in non-standard auto coverage and has extensive experience helping drivers with challenging insurance situations. 

Does Kemper Auto accept alternative forms of ID? 

 Yes. Kemper Auto accepts several alternative forms of identification, including matrícula consular cards, foreign driver’s licenses, and passports. This flexibility helps make coverage more accessible for a broader range of drivers.