Minimum Coverage Requirements in Illinois
Illinois mandates minimum liability coverage of 25/50/20: $25,000 bodily injury per person, $50,000 per accident, and $20,000 property damage. Drivers convicted of DUI, caught driving uninsured, or accumulating multiple serious violations typically must file SR-22 proof of financial responsibility with the Illinois Secretary of State for 3 years. Uninsured motorist coverage is also required at the same 25/50 limits, though many high-risk drivers benefit from higher limits to protect against rate spikes from a second incident.
How Much Does Car Insurance Cost in Illinois?
High-risk auto insurance in Illinois costs significantly more than standard coverage due to elevated claim risk from violations, DUIs, or lapses. Premiums vary widely by violation type, with DUI drivers paying 150–300% more than clean-record drivers, and SR-22 filers facing both the filing fee and sharply higher underlying premiums. Rates also depend on age, location, vehicle, and which non-standard carrier accepts you.
What Affects Your Rate
- Violation type: DUI increases premiums 150–300%, while speeding tickets or lapses may add 30–80%
- SR-22 filing requirement adds $15–$35 to initial cost but signals high-risk status to all carriers
- Location: Chicago-area drivers pay 20–40% more than downstate due to higher claim frequency and uninsured motorist rates
- Age and experience: drivers under 25 with violations may pay double the rates of older high-risk drivers
- Credit-based insurance score: Illinois allows credit as a rating factor, and poor credit combined with violations compounds premium increases
- Number of incidents: multiple violations or a DUI plus at-fault accident can push premiums above $500/mo even for minimum coverage
Compare rates from carriers that work with drivers who have points
Standard carriers surcharge heavily after violations. These specialists price your specific record differently.
Get Your Free QuoteCoverage Types
Liability Insurance
Pays for injuries and property damage you cause to others. Illinois requires 25/50/20, but high-risk drivers benefit from higher limits to avoid personal exposure if sued after a second incident.
Full Coverage
Combines liability, comprehensive, and collision. Protects your vehicle and others, essential if you finance or lease or own a car worth more than a few thousand dollars.
SR-22 Insurance
SR-22 is a filing, not a policy—your insurer electronically certifies to the state that you carry at least minimum coverage. Required for DUI, driving uninsured, or serious violations.
Non-Standard Auto Insurance
Specialized carriers that accept high-risk drivers declined by standard insurers. Higher premiums but broader acceptance for DUIs, lapses, and multiple violations.
Uninsured Motorist Coverage
Pays your medical bills and lost wages if hit by a driver without insurance. Illinois requires UM at 25/50 minimums unless you reject it in writing.
Collision Coverage
Covers damage to your vehicle in an at-fault accident or single-car crash. Required by lenders if you finance or lease your car.
