Minimum Coverage Requirements in Texas
Within 30 days of a DUI conviction or license suspension in Texas, your current insurance company will typically send a non-renewal notice—meaning your policy stays in effect until the end of your term, but won't be renewed. The Texas Department of Public Safety requires an SR-22 filing for most serious violations, which proves you maintain minimum liability coverage for a specified period. You'll need to find a carrier that offers SR-22 filing and accepts high-risk drivers, as many standard insurers exit at non-renewal rather than write a new policy.
How Much Does Car Insurance Cost in Texas?
Car insurance after a violation in Texas increases dramatically because you're now classified as a high-risk driver. DUI convictions typically raise premiums 80–200%, while suspended license violations increase rates 50–150%. Rates are highest in the first year after the violation and begin decreasing gradually as you maintain continuous coverage and move past the violation date—usually dropping more noticeably after 3–5 years.
What Affects Your Rate
- Violation type—DUI convictions carry the highest surcharges, often 100–200% increases
- Time since violation—rates drop gradually as you move 3, 5, and 7 years past the offense date
- SR-22 duration remaining—some carriers reduce rates slightly once the filing requirement ends
- City and ZIP code—urban areas like Houston and Dallas have higher base rates before violation surcharges
- Age and driving history—drivers 65+ with otherwise clean records may see smaller increases than younger drivers with multiple violations
- Carrier specialization—non-standard insurers often offer better rates for DUI drivers than standard carriers trying to exit the risk
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Get Your Free QuoteCoverage Types
High-Risk Auto Insurance
Coverage for drivers classified as high-risk due to violations, suspensions, DUIs, or gaps in coverage. Sold by non-standard carriers that specialize in this market and underwrite differently than standard insurers.
SR-22 Insurance
Not a separate type of insurance—this is standard liability coverage plus an SR-22 certificate filed with the state. Required after DUI, suspended license violations, and other serious offenses in Texas.
Non-Standard Auto Insurance
Policies designed for drivers who don't qualify for standard market coverage. These carriers accept higher-risk profiles and offer SR-22 filing, but charge significantly higher premiums.
Liability Insurance
Covers injury and property damage you cause to others. After a violation, many drivers carry only state minimums to reduce premiums—but this creates significant financial exposure if you cause another accident.
