Minimum Coverage Requirements in Delaware
Delaware requires minimum liability coverage of 25/50/10: $25,000 per person for bodily injury, $50,000 per accident, and $10,000 for property damage. SR-22 filing is typically required for DUI convictions, driving without insurance, repeat major violations, or license suspensions—not for standard point violations like speeding tickets or single at-fault accidents. Most drivers with points on their record do not need SR-22, but will see rate increases that typically last 3–5 years depending on the violation type and insurer rating practices.
How Much Does Car Insurance Cost in Delaware?
Insurance rates for drivers with points or violations in Delaware vary widely based on the type of offense, your age, vehicle, and driving history. A single speeding ticket may increase rates 15–25%, while a DUI or at-fault accident can double or triple premiums. Most rate increases last 3–5 years, though some carriers offer accident forgiveness or will re-rate your policy sooner if you complete a defensive driving course.
What Affects Your Rate
- Type of violation: DUI and reckless driving increase rates more than speeding tickets or minor at-fault accidents
- Time since violation: rates typically drop 10–20% each year after the incident if you remain violation-free
- Total points on record: Delaware uses a point system and accumulating 12+ points in 2 years can trigger suspension
- Carrier tier: non-standard insurers charge more initially but may offer rate reductions after 6–12 months of clean driving
- ZIP code: urban areas like Wilmington see higher rates due to accident frequency, theft, and uninsured driver rates
- Age and driving history: younger drivers with violations face steeper increases; drivers over 25 with otherwise clean records recover faster
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 injuries and property damage you cause to others in an accident. Delaware requires 25/50/10, but drivers with points should consider higher limits to protect assets in a future claim.
Full Coverage
Combines liability, collision, and comprehensive. Required by lenders and recommended for newer vehicles or drivers who cannot afford to replace their car out of pocket.
Non-Standard Auto Insurance
Coverage from insurers that specialize in high-risk drivers with violations, DUIs, lapses, or SR-22 requirements. These carriers use different underwriting and are often the only option after serious offenses.
Uninsured Motorist Coverage
Pays for your injuries and vehicle damage if you are hit by a driver with no insurance or insufficient coverage. Delaware requires insurers to offer this at your liability limits.
SR-22 Insurance
A certificate your insurer files with the Delaware DMV proving you carry minimum liability. Required after DUI, driving without insurance, or serious repeat violations—not routine point violations.
Collision Coverage
Pays to repair or replace your vehicle after an accident, regardless of fault. Required by lenders and recommended for vehicles worth more than $3,000–$5,000.
