Washington SR-22 & High-Risk Auto Insurance
Washington requires 25/50/10 liability coverage and is an at-fault state.
Find Coverage with Points on Your LicenseWashington at a Glance
25/50/10
Minimum liability limits, in thousands of dollars (per person / per accident / property)
At-fault
The at-fault driver's insurance pays for the damage they cause
Optional
PIP and uninsured motorist coverage are not required by law
No
A defensive driving course does not remove points here
Source: state DMV, insurance department and statute records, verified July 2026
Minimum Coverage Requirements in Washington
Drivers with DUI convictions, license suspensions for serious violations, or multiple at-fault accidents typically must file SR-22 with the Washington Department of Licensing. SR-22 filing lasts 3 years from the date of conviction or reinstatement, and any lapse in coverage during that period resets the clock and triggers a new suspension.
Liability Insurance
SR-22 Insurance
Full Coverage
Uninsured Motorist Coverage
Non-Standard Auto Insurance
What Drivers Pay in Washington
$280–$291/mo
Typical monthly rate in Washington, drivers after a speeding ticket
Rate data: ValuePenguin and CarInsurance.com, 2026
What Affects Your Rate
- SR-22 requirement duration: Washington's 3-year filing period means elevated rates persist for the entire compliance window, though some carriers reduce premiums after the first year without new violations
- Number of points on record: Washington uses a point system where 6 points in 12 months triggers a suspension, and each point adds to your risk profile and premium calculation
- Lapse history: Drivers reinstating coverage after a lapse or suspension face higher rates due to perceived instability and increased risk of future lapses
- Geographic location: Urban areas like Seattle and Tacoma typically have higher premiums due to accident frequency, theft rates, and repair costs compared to rural counties
See What Points Are Really Costing You
Find Coverage with Points on Your LicenseCoverage Types
Liability Insurance
Covers bodily injury and property damage you cause to others in an accident. Washington's 25/50/10 minimums are low, and exceeding them in a serious accident leaves you personally liable for the difference.
Full Coverage
Combines liability, collision, and comprehensive to cover both your liability to others and damage to your own vehicle. Required by lenders if you finance or lease.
SR-22 Insurance
SR-22 is a certificate filed by your insurer proving you carry Washington's minimum liability coverage. It is required after DUI, reckless driving, or accumulating 6 points in 12 months.
Non-Standard Auto Insurance
Coverage from carriers specializing in high-risk drivers who cannot obtain policies from standard insurers. Rates are higher, but coverage meets state requirements.
Uninsured Motorist Coverage
Protects you if you're hit by a driver with no insurance or insufficient coverage. Washington requires insurers to offer it, but you can reject it in writing.
Collision Coverage
Pays to repair or replace your vehicle after an accident, regardless of fault. Required by lenders and priced based on your vehicle value and claim history.