Updated April 2026
State Requirements
Texas requires minimum liability coverage of 30/60/25: $30,000 per person for bodily injury, $60,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $25,000 for property damage. Drivers with DUI convictions, suspended licenses, or multiple violations may be required to file SR-22 proof of financial responsibility for 2 years. Texas uses a point system where accumulating 6 points in 3 years triggers surcharges, and most moving violations add 2–3 points to your license. For drivers with points from tickets or accidents, SR-22 is rarely required unless the violation involves license suspension or uninsured driving.
Cost Overview
High-risk auto insurance in Texas costs significantly more than standard policies, with premiums varying based on violation type, location, and driving history. Drivers with DUI convictions typically pay $3,600–$5,200 annually, while those with points from speeding tickets or at-fault accidents may see increases of 20–60% over clean-record rates. Urban areas like Houston, Dallas, and Austin have higher base rates due to traffic density and accident frequency, which compounds the rate impact of violations.
What Affects Your Rate
- Violation type: DUI convictions increase rates 80–150%, while speeding tickets or at-fault accidents typically increase rates 20–40%
- SR-22 filing requirement adds 2-year elevated premium period even after points drop off your record
- Location: Houston and Dallas high-risk rates average 15–25% higher than rural Texas counties due to accident frequency
- Points on license: Texas adds 2–3 points per moving violation, and accumulating 6 points in 3 years triggers Driver Responsibility Program surcharges
- Coverage lapses: any gap in coverage during SR-22 period resets the 2-year clock and may add additional rate penalties
- Carrier availability: non-standard insurers vary widely in Texas—shopping 3–5 carriers can reduce premiums by $1,000+ annually for the same profile
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. Texas minimums are 30/60/25, but high-risk drivers should consider higher limits to protect assets and reduce out-of-pocket exposure in serious accidents.
SR-22 Insurance
Proof of financial responsibility filed by your carrier with the Texas DPS. Required for 2 years following DUI, uninsured driving, or license suspension. Lapse resets the clock.
Non-Standard Auto Insurance
Coverage for drivers who cannot qualify for standard policies due to violations, suspensions, or SR-22 requirements. Non-standard carriers specialize in high-risk profiles and may offer payment plans.
Uninsured Motorist Coverage
Covers your injuries and vehicle damage if you're hit by a driver with no insurance. Optional in Texas but recommended given the state's high uninsured driver rate.
Full Coverage
Liability, collision, and comprehensive combined. Required if you have a car loan or lease, and provides broadest protection for your vehicle and liability exposure.
Collision Coverage
Pays to repair or replace your vehicle after an accident regardless of fault. Required by lenders and useful for high-risk drivers who cannot afford to replace a totaled vehicle out-of-pocket.
