Updated March 2026
State Requirements
Delaware requires minimum liability coverage of $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident for bodily injury, plus $10,000 for property damage. The state also mandates $15,000/$30,000 in Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage for medical expenses regardless of fault. SR-22 filing is required for drivers convicted of DUI, those who accumulate 12 or more points within 24 months, drivers involved in at-fault accidents without insurance, and those who have had their license suspended or revoked. For drivers with violations or points, these minimums may not provide sufficient protection against out-of-pocket liability in serious accidents.
Cost Overview
Delaware drivers with violations, points, or SR-22 requirements pay significantly higher premiums than those with clean records, with increases ranging from 25% for a single speeding ticket to 150–250% for DUI convictions or multiple at-fault accidents. Delaware's mandatory PIP coverage adds to base costs, and the state allows insurers to apply surcharges for up to 3 years after a violation. High-risk drivers often see the largest rate reductions by shopping multiple carriers, as non-standard insurers specialize in this market and price violations differently than standard carriers.
What Affects Your Rate
- Violation type and severity: DUI convictions increase premiums by 150–250%, while speeding tickets 15+ mph over add 25–50%
- Number of points on record: Delaware's point system assigns 2–6 points per violation, and premiums escalate as you approach the 12-point suspension threshold
- Time since violation: Surcharges typically decrease annually and fall off entirely after 3 years, with rates recovering to near-normal levels by year 4
- SR-22 filing requirement: The filing itself costs $15–$50, but being in the SR-22 risk pool often limits you to non-standard carriers with higher base rates
- ZIP code and city: Wilmington drivers pay 20–35% more than rural Sussex County residents due to higher accident and theft rates
- Vehicle type and value: Comprehensive and collision premiums for high-risk drivers on newer vehicles can exceed $2,000 annually, making deductible selection critical
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's $25,000/$50,000/$10,000 minimums are low and may not fully protect drivers with violations from lawsuits after serious accidents.
SR-22 Insurance
A certificate filed by your insurer proving you carry continuous coverage, required for DUI, license suspensions, and repeat violations. Any lapse resets the 3-year filing requirement and suspends your license.
Full Coverage
Combines liability, PIP, comprehensive, and collision to protect both your legal obligation and your own vehicle. Required by lenders and recommended for newer cars, but expensive for high-risk drivers.
Non-Standard Auto Insurance
Policies designed for drivers with violations, points, SR-22 requirements, or lapses who cannot obtain coverage from preferred carriers. Rates are higher but availability is broader.
Uninsured Motorist Coverage
Protects you if hit by a driver without insurance or with limits too low to cover your damages. Delaware requires insurers to offer UM/UIM at your liability limits, and you must waive it in writing to decline.
Personal Injury Protection (PIP)
Mandatory no-fault coverage that pays your medical expenses, lost wages, and funeral costs regardless of who caused the accident. Delaware requires $15,000/$30,000 in PIP on every policy.
