Updated March 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 convicted of DUI, caught driving without insurance, involved in at-fault accidents while uninsured, or accumulating excessive violations must file SR-22 proof of financial responsibility with the Texas Department of Public Safety. The state does not require personal injury protection or uninsured motorist coverage by law, but these coverages become critical for high-risk drivers rebuilding after violations or lapses.
Cost Overview
High-risk auto insurance in Texas costs $2,200–$5,200 annually depending on violation type, driving history, age, and location. DUI convictions typically raise premiums 60–120% above standard rates, while at-fault accidents increase costs 30–70%. Urban areas like Houston, Dallas, and Austin see higher premiums due to accident frequency and uninsured driver rates, while rural counties often offer slightly lower costs.
What Affects Your Rate
- Violation type: DUI convictions increase premiums more than speeding tickets or lapses
- Time since incident: Rates drop 10–20% annually as violations age beyond 3 years
- SR-22 requirement: Adds $300–$800/year in premium surcharges for 2-year filing period
- Location: Houston and Dallas rates run 15–25% higher than rural counties due to accident density
- Age and gender: Male drivers under 25 with violations pay 20–40% more than older drivers with identical records
- Credit score: Texas allows credit-based insurance scoring, which penalizes high-risk drivers with poor credit an additional 30–60%
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Frequently Asked Questions
Sources
- Texas Department of Public Safety – SR-22 Requirements and Financial Responsibility
- Texas Department of Insurance – Minimum Auto Insurance Requirements
- Insurance Research Council – Uninsured Motorists Study