Minimum Coverage Requirements in Washington
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 convicted of DUI, driving with a suspended license, or causing an uninsured accident typically must file SR-22 proof of financial responsibility with the Washington Department of Licensing. The SR-22 filing requirement generally lasts 3 years from the reinstatement date. Failure to maintain continuous coverage during this period restarts the entire 3-year clock.
How Much Does Car Insurance Cost in Washington?
High-risk auto insurance in Washington typically costs $200–$400/mo for liability-only and $300–$600/mo for full coverage, with rates determined by violation type, frequency, and time since the incident. DUI convictions generate the steepest surcharges — often 150–300% above standard rates — while at-fault accidents and lapses add 40–100% depending on severity. Rates decline gradually as violations age off your record (typically 3–5 years for most infractions, 5–7 years for DUI), but maintaining continuous SR-22 coverage without lapses is the most critical factor in securing lower premiums over time.
What Affects Your Rate
- Violation type and severity — DUI convictions typically cost 150–300% more than standard rates, while at-fault accidents add 40–80%
- Time since violation — rates drop approximately 10–20% per year as violations age, with most falling off after 3–5 years
- SR-22 filing requirement — the filing itself costs $15–$35, but restricts you to non-standard carriers with higher base premiums
- Coverage lapses — even a single day without coverage during SR-22 period restarts the 3-year requirement and adds a new lapse surcharge
- Location — urban areas like Seattle and Tacoma typically see 20–40% higher premiums than rural counties due to claim frequency
- Credit-based insurance score — Washington allows insurers to use credit history in underwriting, which can significantly impact non-standard rates
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
Covers injuries and property damage you cause to others in an at-fault accident. Washington's 25/50/10 minimums are legally sufficient but financially inadequate for serious collisions.
SR-22 Filing
Certificate filed by your insurer with the Washington Department of Licensing proving you carry continuous liability coverage. Required for 3 years after DUI, suspended license violations, or uninsured accidents.
Non-Standard Auto Insurance
High-risk policies written by carriers that specialize in DUI, suspension, lapse, and violation cases. Premiums run $200–$400/mo for liability and often require 25–50% down.
Full Coverage
Liability plus comprehensive and collision to protect your vehicle against theft, weather, vandalism, and crash damage. Required by lenders on financed vehicles.
Uninsured Motorist Coverage
Pays for your injuries and vehicle damage when hit by a driver with no insurance or insufficient coverage. Washington requires it to be offered; you can reject in writing.
Collision Coverage
Pays to repair or replace your vehicle after an at-fault accident, regardless of who caused the crash. Requires a deductible ($500–$1,000 typical).
