State Requirements
Delaware mandates minimum liability coverage of 25/50/10: $25,000 per person for bodily injury, $50,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $10,000 for property damage. Drivers convicted of DUI, multiple traffic violations within 24 months, or caught driving uninsured are required to file SR-22 proof of insurance with the Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles. Personal Injury Protection (PIP) of $15,000 minimum is also required unless formally waived in writing.
Cost Overview
High-risk auto insurance in Delaware costs significantly more than standard policies due to violation type, SR-22 filing requirements, and limited carrier availability. Drivers with a single DUI typically pay $2,200–$3,800 annually, while those with multiple violations or at-fault accidents while uninsured can expect $3,500–$4,500 or more. Rates decrease gradually as violations age beyond 3–5 years, assuming no additional incidents.
What Affects Your Rate
- Type and date of violation: DUI convictions typically increase rates 150–250% for 3–5 years
- SR-22 filing requirement: Limits carrier options to non-standard insurers with higher base rates
- Number of violations within 36 months: Multiple speeding tickets or at-fault accidents compound surcharges
- Coverage lapse duration: Gaps of 30+ days can add 20–40% to premiums even after reinstatement
- City and ZIP code: Urban areas like Wilmington and Newark see higher rates due to accident frequency and uninsured driver rates
- Credit-based insurance score: Delaware permits use of credit history in underwriting, which often penalizes high-risk drivers
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Get Your Free QuoteCoverage Types
Liability Insurance
Covers injuries and property damage you cause to others in an at-fault accident. Delaware's 25/50/10 minimums are often insufficient for drivers with SR-22 requirements, as a serious accident can trigger additional license action if damages exceed your limits.
SR-22 Certificate Filing
Proof-of-insurance certificate filed by your carrier with the Delaware DMV, required for DUI, uninsured driving, or multiple violations. Must remain active for 3 consecutive years without any lapse.
Personal Injury Protection (PIP)
Covers medical expenses, lost wages, and rehabilitation costs for you and your passengers regardless of fault. Delaware mandates $15,000 minimum PIP unless formally waived, but SR-22 filers cannot waive this coverage.
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage
Protects you if an at-fault driver lacks insurance or has insufficient coverage to pay your medical bills and vehicle damage. Optional in Delaware but recommended given the state's uninsured driver rate.
Collision Coverage
Pays for damage to your vehicle after an at-fault accident or collision with an object, minus your deductible. Required by lenders if you finance or lease, otherwise optional.
Comprehensive Coverage
Covers theft, vandalism, fire, hail, falling objects, and animal strikes. Required by lenders; optional for drivers who own their vehicle outright.
