Minimum Coverage Requirements in Virginia
Virginia operates under a tort-based liability system, meaning the at-fault driver's insurance pays for damages in an accident. After a DUI conviction, the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles requires SR-22 filing as proof of continuous liability coverage for 3 years. License reinstatement also requires completion of the Virginia Alcohol Safety Action Program (VASAP), payment of reinstatement fees, and proof of ignition interlock device installation if mandated by the court.
Meeting the state minimum keeps you legal. See whether it's enough — get your Virginia quote.
Get your Virginia quoteHow Much Does Car Insurance Cost in Virginia?
DUI convictions in Virginia increase insurance premiums by 150 to 250 percent on average. The total cost includes the SR-22 filing fee, premium increase, ignition interlock installation and monitoring if required, and reinstatement fees.
What Affects Your Rate
- First-offense DUI in Virginia typically increases premiums by 160 to 180 percent for the first year after conviction.
- Second-offense DUI or refusal cases increase premiums by 220 to 280 percent and limit carrier options to specialty high-risk insurers.
- BAC level at arrest affects premium — convictions with BAC 0.15 or higher are classified as aggravated DUI and result in higher underwriting surcharges.
- Ignition interlock requirement adds $70 to $120 per month in device monitoring fees, separate from insurance premium.
- Northern Virginia drivers (Fairfax, Arlington, Alexandria) pay 15 to 25 percent more than rural areas due to higher accident frequency and repair costs.
- Maintaining continuous SR-22 coverage without lapse for 36 consecutive months is required — any gap restarts the filing period and adds reinstatement fees of $220 to $470.
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Get Your Free QuoteCoverage Types
SR-22 Insurance
Certificate filed by your insurer with the Virginia DMV proving you carry continuous liability coverage. Required for 3 years after DUI conviction.
Non-Owner SR-22
Liability coverage for drivers who do not own a vehicle but need SR-22 filing to satisfy Virginia's proof of insurance requirement.
Ignition Interlock Insurance
Coverage for vehicles equipped with court-ordered ignition interlock devices. Not all carriers will insure IID-equipped vehicles.
Liability Insurance
Pays for injuries and property damage you cause to others. Virginia requires 25/50/20 minimums after DUI conviction.
Uninsured Motorist Coverage
Covers your injuries and vehicle damage if you're hit by a driver with no insurance. Optional in Virginia but must be rejected in writing.
