Alabama SR-22 & High-Risk Auto Insurance
Alabama requires 25/50/25 liability coverage and is an at-fault state.
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Alabama at a Glance
25/50/25
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
State Requirements
Drivers convicted of DUI, involved in uninsured accidents, or with suspended licenses must file SR-22 proof of financial responsibility with the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency for 3 years. Alabama uses a point system where accumulating 12–14 points within 2 years triggers license suspension, but most point violations do not require SR-22 filing unless accompanied by a suspension.
Liability Insurance
SR-22 Insurance
Non-Standard Auto Insurance
Uninsured Motorist Coverage
Full Coverage
Cost Overview
$227–$255/mo
Typical monthly rate in Alabama, drivers after a speeding ticket
Rate data: ValuePenguin and CarInsurance.com, 2026
What Affects Your Rate
- Number of points on license: drivers approaching the 12-point suspension threshold pay higher premiums than those with minor violations
- Time since violation: premiums decrease gradually as violations age, with most points falling off after 2 years
- Coverage level selected: minimum liability costs less but provides minimal protection; full coverage significantly increases premiums for high-risk drivers
- Carrier availability: non-standard carriers like The General and National General charge more than standard carriers but are often the only option for SR-22 or suspended drivers
Find the Insurers That Still Want Your Business
See Carriers That Cover YouFrequently Asked Questions
How long do points stay on my driving record in Alabama?
Points remain on your Alabama driving record for 2 years from the date of conviction. After 2 years, points no longer count toward the 12–14 point suspension threshold, though the underlying violation may remain visible to insurers for 3–5 years. Insurance rates typically begin to decrease as violations age, even if still visible on your record.
Do I need SR-22 for a speeding ticket in Alabama?
No, standard speeding tickets do not trigger SR-22 requirements in Alabama unless they contribute to a license suspension. SR-22 is required for DUI convictions, driving without insurance, at-fault accidents while uninsured, and suspensions due to excessive points (12–14 within 2 years). A single speeding ticket will increase your insurance rates but does not require SR-22 filing.
What happens if I let my SR-22 insurance lapse in Alabama?
If your insurance policy lapses during the SR-22 requirement period, your insurer must notify the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency within 10 days. Your license will be suspended immediately, and the 3-year SR-22 requirement clock restarts from the date you file a new certificate and reinstate your license. Continuous coverage is mandatory to maintain driving privileges.
How many points does it take to suspend your license in Alabama?
Alabama suspends your license if you accumulate 12–14 points within a 2-year period, with the exact threshold depending on violation type. Common violations carry 2–6 points: speeding 25+ mph over the limit is 6 points, reckless driving is 6 points, and running a red light is 3 points. Once suspended, you typically need SR-22 filing to reinstate your license.
Which insurance companies offer SR-22 in Alabama?
Non-standard carriers in Alabama that provide SR-22 filings include National General, The General, Bristol West, and Progressive. Not all standard carriers offer SR-22 coverage, and high-risk drivers should compare quotes from multiple non-standard insurers. Rates vary significantly by carrier and violation type, making shopping essential.
How can I lower my insurance rates after getting points in Alabama?
Rates decrease as violations age beyond 2 years when points fall off your record. Taking a defensive driving course can reduce points in some cases and may qualify you for insurer discounts. Shopping among non-standard carriers often yields lower rates than staying with your current insurer, as high-risk specialists compete aggressively for drivers with violations.
Coverage Types
Liability Insurance
Covers injuries and property damage you cause to others. Required by Alabama law and the foundation of SR-22 compliance for high-risk drivers.
SR-22 Insurance
Certificate proving continuous insurance coverage filed with Alabama Law Enforcement Agency. Required for DUI, suspension, and uninsured accidents.
Non-Standard Auto Insurance
Policies for drivers with violations, accidents, or lapses who cannot obtain standard market coverage. Higher premiums but legally compliant.
Full Coverage
Liability plus collision and comprehensive, required by lenders for financed vehicles. Highest cost but protects your vehicle and loan obligation.
Uninsured Motorist Coverage
Protects you when hit by a driver without insurance. Not required in Alabama but highly recommended given uninsured driver rates.
Collision Coverage
Pays for damage to your vehicle after an accident regardless of fault. Required by lenders but optional if you own your car outright.