Minimum Coverage Requirements in Arizona
Arizona requires minimum liability coverage of 25/50/15: $25,000 bodily injury per person, $50,000 per accident, and $15,000 property damage. Drivers convicted of DUI, driving without insurance, or certain suspensions must file SR-22 proof of financial responsibility with the Arizona Motor Vehicle Division. The SR-22 requirement typically lasts 3 years from the date of filing. Arizona also enforces strict uninsured motorist consequences — operating without coverage can trigger immediate license suspension and SR-22 requirements upon reinstatement.
How Much Does Car Insurance Cost in Arizona?
High-risk auto insurance in Arizona costs $200–$400/mo on average, or $2,400–$4,800/year, depending on violation type, age, location, and carrier. DUI convictions typically result in the highest increases — premiums can triple or quadruple standard rates for 3–5 years. Rate recovery timelines vary: most DUI surcharges decrease after 3 years, while at-fault accidents affect rates for 3–5 years and minor violations for 3 years.
What Affects Your Rate
- Violation type: DUI convictions result in the highest rate increases, often 200%–300% over standard rates for 3–5 years
- SR-22 duration: Arizona's 3-year SR-22 requirement means premiums remain elevated for the entire filing period, though rates may decrease after the first year with no new violations
- Points on license: Arizona uses a point system — 8 points in 12 months triggers SR-22, and drivers with 12+ points face the highest non-standard premiums
- Location: Urban areas like Phoenix and Tucson see higher high-risk rates due to accident frequency and uninsured driver density
- Age and experience: Drivers under 25 with DUI or SR-22 requirements face the steepest premiums, often $400–$700/mo for minimum coverage
- Prior insurance lapse: Gaps in coverage combined with SR-22 requirements push drivers into the highest-cost non-standard tier
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
Pays for injuries and property damage you cause to others in an accident. Arizona requires 25/50/15, but high-risk drivers should carry higher limits to protect against lawsuits.
SR-22 Filing
Certificate filed by your insurer to the Arizona MVD proving continuous coverage. Required for DUI, suspensions, and uninsured violations for 3 years.
Non-Standard Auto Insurance
Coverage for drivers who cannot qualify for standard policies due to DUI, suspensions, or major violations. Non-standard carriers accept high-risk profiles but charge 150%–300% higher premiums.
Uninsured Motorist Coverage
Covers your medical bills and lost wages if you are hit by an uninsured driver. Arizona does not require it, but insurers must offer it.
Full Coverage
Liability plus collision and comprehensive. Required if you finance or lease, but optional for paid-off vehicles.
Collision Coverage
Pays to repair or replace your vehicle after an accident, regardless of fault. Subject to deductible, typically $500–$1,000.
