Minimum Coverage Requirements in Arizona
After a DUI or serious violation in Arizona, your current insurance carrier will typically non-renew your policy at the next renewal date rather than cancel it immediately — giving you several months to find replacement coverage. The Arizona Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) will require you to carry SR-22 filing for a specified period, which means you need an insurer willing to file this certificate on your behalf. Not all carriers offer SR-22 filing, so you'll need to move to a non-standard auto insurance provider that specializes in high-risk drivers.
How Much Does Car Insurance Cost in Arizona?
Insurance costs after a DUI or serious violation in Arizona typically increase 60-150% compared to standard rates, with the exact impact depending on your violation type, prior driving history, and the carrier you choose. For drivers 65 and older with an otherwise clean record, some non-standard carriers may offer rates at the lower end of this range, particularly if the violation is alcohol-related rather than multiple moving violations. Rates generally begin to decrease after 3 years and approach standard carrier levels after 5 years with no additional violations.
What Affects Your Rate
- Violation type and severity — DUI convictions typically result in higher increases than multiple speeding tickets
- Time since violation — rates decrease each year you maintain clean driving
- Prior driving history — drivers 65+ with decades of clean history before the violation may qualify for better rates
- Geographic location in Arizona — Phoenix and Tucson have more non-standard carrier competition, which can lower premiums
- Coverage level selected — moving from minimum to standard liability limits typically adds 15-20% to premium
- Vehicle type and value — comprehensive and collision coverage on newer vehicles significantly increases cost in the non-standard market
Compare rates from carriers that specialize in senior drivers
Mature driver discounts, low-mileage rates, and coverage reviews — see what you're actually eligible for.
Get Your Free QuoteCoverage Types
High-Risk Auto Insurance
Coverage designed for drivers with DUIs, suspensions, or serious violations on their record. Provides the same protection as standard auto insurance but through carriers that accept higher-risk profiles.
Non-Standard Auto Insurance
Insurance sold by carriers specializing in drivers who cannot obtain coverage from standard insurers due to violations, lapses, or other risk factors. Often the only option for drivers requiring SR-22 filing.
SR-22 Insurance
Not a separate policy but a certificate your insurer files with the Arizona MVD proving you maintain required coverage. Available only through carriers licensed to provide SR-22 filing in Arizona.
Liability Insurance
Required coverage that pays for injuries and property damage you cause to others in an accident. Arizona requires minimum limits of 25/50/15, which may be insufficient for drivers with assets to protect.
Full Coverage
Combination of liability, comprehensive, and collision coverage that protects both you and your vehicle. Essential if you have a car loan or significant vehicle equity.
Uninsured Motorist Coverage
Protects you if you're hit by a driver without insurance or with insufficient coverage. Arizona does not require this coverage but it's particularly valuable given the state's uninsured driver rate.
