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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Frequently Asked Questions
Sources
- Washington Department of Licensing – SR-22 Requirements and Financial Responsibility
- Washington State Legislature RCW 46.29 – Financial Responsibility
- Washington Office of the Insurance Commissioner – Auto Insurance Guide