Updated April 2026
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 Auto Insurance Rates in Texas
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Sources
- Texas Department of Public Safety - Financial Responsibility Division
- Texas Department of Insurance - Auto Insurance Requirements
- Insurance Information Institute - Uninsured Motorists by State