Updated March 2026
State Requirements
Washington requires 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 with DUI convictions, license suspensions for excessive violations, driving without insurance, or at-fault accidents while uninsured must file SR-22 proof of financial responsibility with the Washington Department of Licensing. High-risk drivers typically need to carry these minimums continuously for three years without lapse to satisfy SR-22 requirements. State law also requires uninsured motorist coverage at the same limits unless you decline it in writing.
Cost Overview
High-risk auto insurance in Washington costs significantly more than standard rates due to the state's focus on DUI enforcement and the limited number of non-standard carriers willing to write SR-22 policies. Average premiums for drivers with SR-22 requirements range from $2,800–$5,200 annually depending on violation type, with DUI convictions typically resulting in rate increases of 150–300% compared to a clean record. Rates decrease gradually as your violation ages and you maintain continuous coverage without new incidents, but most carriers require the full 3-year SR-22 period to pass before considering you for standard pricing.
What Affects Your Rate
- Type of violation: DUI convictions result in the highest rate increases, typically 200–300%, while single at-fault accidents or speeding violations increase rates by 40–80%
- Time since violation: Rates decrease annually as violations age, with significant drops after 3 and 5 years if no new incidents occur
- Prior insurance lapse history: Gaps in coverage prior to SR-22 filing can add 20–50% to premiums with non-standard carriers
- Location within Washington: Urban areas like Seattle and Tacoma have higher base rates due to accident frequency and theft, increasing high-risk premiums further
- Vehicle type and value: Non-standard carriers may restrict coverage for high-performance or luxury vehicles, or require higher premiums for comprehensive and collision
- Credit history: Washington allows insurers to use credit-based insurance scores, and poor credit combined with SR-22 status can double premiums compared to drivers with good credit and the same violation
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Get Your Free QuoteCoverage Types
Liability Insurance
Mandatory coverage for injuries and property damage you cause to others. Washington's 25/50/10 minimums are required for SR-22 filing but may leave you financially exposed in serious accidents.
SR-22 Insurance
Certificate proving you maintain continuous liability coverage, filed by your insurer with the Washington DOL. Required for 3 years after DUI, major suspensions, or uninsured accidents.
Uninsured Motorist Coverage
Protects you if you're hit by a driver with no insurance or insufficient coverage. Washington requires insurers to offer UM/UIM at the same limits as your liability policy.
Non-Standard Auto Insurance
Specialized coverage for drivers with DUIs, major violations, or SR-22 requirements who cannot obtain standard insurance. Non-standard carriers charge higher premiums but provide paths to reinstatement and rate reduction over time.
Collision Coverage
Pays to repair your vehicle after an accident regardless of fault. Optional unless required by lender, and often unavailable or limited for high-risk drivers in their first policy term.
Comprehensive Coverage
Covers non-collision damage from theft, vandalism, weather, and animals. Optional coverage that may be restricted for high-risk profiles depending on violation history and vehicle type.
