Minimum Coverage Requirements in Texas
Texas requires minimum liability coverage of 30/60/25: $30,000 bodily injury per person, $60,000 per accident, and $25,000 property damage. Drivers convicted of DUI, driving without insurance, or accumulating excessive violations must file SR-22 proof of financial responsibility with the Texas Department of Public Safety for a period typically lasting 3 years. Minimum coverage rarely protects high-risk drivers adequately—at-fault accidents exceeding state minimums can trigger lawsuits and license suspension if assets aren't protected.
How Much Does Car Insurance Cost in Texas?
High-risk auto insurance premiums in Texas vary significantly based on violation severity, age, location, and vehicle type. DUI convictions typically double or triple rates compared to clean-record drivers, while multiple at-fault accidents or a suspended license can push monthly premiums above $400. Rates generally decline after 3–5 years of violation-free driving, though DUI convictions may affect rates for up to 10 years with some carriers.
What Affects Your Rate
- Violation type: DUI convictions increase rates more than minor speeding tickets, with DUI adding $100–$250/mo on average
- Time since violation: Rates drop 10–20% annually after 3 years of clean driving for most violations
- Age and experience: Drivers under 25 with violations can pay $400–$600/mo due to compounded risk factors
- Location: Urban areas like Houston and Dallas show higher rates than rural counties due to accident frequency and theft rates
- Vehicle type: High-performance or luxury vehicles cost more to insure, especially for high-risk drivers
- Credit score: Texas allows credit-based insurance scoring, meaning poor credit combined with violations compounds premium increases
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 injury and property damage you cause to others in an at-fault accident. Texas minimums are 30/60/25, but high-risk drivers should carry higher limits to avoid personal liability if claims exceed minimums.
SR-22 Insurance
A certificate filed by your insurer proving you carry at least minimum liability coverage. Required for 3 years in Texas after DUI, uninsured driving, or license suspension.
Non-Standard Auto Insurance
Coverage designed for drivers rejected by standard carriers due to DUI, suspensions, lapses, or multiple violations. Non-standard carriers specialize in high-risk profiles and accept drivers others won't.
Uninsured Motorist Coverage
Protects you if you're hit by a driver with no insurance. Covers medical bills, lost wages, and vehicle damage when the at-fault driver cannot pay.
Full Coverage
Combines liability, collision, and comprehensive to protect both your legal obligation and your vehicle. Required by lenders if you finance or lease.
Collision Coverage
Pays to repair or replace your vehicle after an accident, regardless of fault. Especially important for high-risk drivers who cannot afford out-of-pocket vehicle replacement.
