Updated March 2026
State Requirements
Alabama requires liability insurance with minimum limits of $25,000 per person for bodily injury, $50,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $25,000 for property damage (25/50/25). 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.
Cost Overview
High-risk drivers in Alabama pay significantly more than clean-record drivers due to DUI convictions, at-fault accidents, point violations, and SR-22 requirements. Average premiums for liability-only coverage range from $2,400–$4,800 annually for drivers with major violations, while full coverage can exceed $6,000 annually. Rates vary widely by violation type, with DUI convictions typically doubling or tripling premiums compared to a single speeding ticket.
What Affects Your Rate
- Type of violation: DUI convictions increase rates 100–200% while single speeding tickets add 20–40%
- SR-22 filing requirement: adds $15–$50 filing cost plus restricts carrier options to non-standard market
- 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
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Coverage Options
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Frequently Asked Questions
Sources
- Alabama Law Enforcement Agency - Driver License Division
- Alabama Department of Insurance
- Alabama Administrative Code - Title 32 Motor Vehicles and Traffic