Minimum Coverage Requirements in Texas
Texas requires minimum liability coverage of 30/60/25: $30,000 per person for bodily injury, $60,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $25,000 for property damage. SR-22 filing is typically required after DUI convictions, at-fault accidents without insurance, repeated violations, or license suspensions. Texas uses a Driver Responsibility Program that assigns points for moving violations—accumulating 6 or more points in 3 years triggers license suspension and often SR-22 requirements. Most high-risk drivers need coverage well above state minimums because a single serious accident can exceed $30,000 in bodily injury costs.
How Much Does Car Insurance Cost in Texas?
High-risk auto insurance in Texas costs significantly more than standard coverage due to violation surcharges, Driver Responsibility Program fees, and limited carrier competition. DUI convictions typically increase premiums by 80–150%, while at-fault accidents without insurance or repeated violations can raise rates by 50–100%. Your exact cost depends on violation type, age, location, and how long ago the incident occurred.
What Affects Your Rate
- Violation type: DUI increases rates 80–150%, at-fault accidents 40–80%, reckless driving 30–60%
- Time since violation: rates typically decrease 10–20% per year after 3 years with no new incidents
- Driver Responsibility Program surcharges: Texas assesses annual surcharges of $100–$2,000 for 3 years on top of insurance premiums for certain violations
- Location: urban areas like Houston, Dallas, and Austin see higher high-risk premiums due to accident frequency and uninsured driver rates
- SR-22 filing status: the filing itself costs $15–$35, but it flags you as high-risk and limits your carrier options
- Age and experience: drivers under 25 with violations face the steepest rates, often exceeding $500/mo for full coverage
Compare rates from carriers that work with drivers who have points
Standard carriers surcharge heavily after violations. These specialists price your specific record differently.
Get Your Free QuoteCoverage Types
Liability Insurance
Covers injuries and property damage you cause to others. Texas minimums are 30/60/25, but a serious accident can easily exceed these limits.
SR-22 Insurance
Certificate filed by your insurer proving you carry required liability coverage. Required for 2 years after DUI, suspension, or driving without insurance in Texas.
Non-Standard Auto Insurance
Policies designed for drivers with violations, lapses, or suspensions. Non-standard carriers accept high-risk profiles that standard insurers decline.
Full Coverage
Combines liability, comprehensive, and collision. Required if you have a car loan or lease, even during an SR-22 period.
Uninsured Motorist Coverage
Protects you if you're hit by a driver with no insurance. Covers your medical bills and vehicle damage when the at-fault driver can't pay.
Collision Coverage
Pays for damage to your vehicle after an accident, regardless of fault. Required by lenders if you finance or lease your car.
