Minimum Coverage Requirements in Wisconsin
Wisconsin requires minimum liability coverage of 25/50/10: $25,000 bodily injury per person, $50,000 per accident, and $10,000 property damage. The Wisconsin Department of Transportation mandates SR-22 filing for drivers with certain violations, creating a certified proof of insurance that insurers file directly with the state. Most high-risk drivers need coverage well above these minimums to access non-standard carriers willing to write policies after violations.
How Much Does Car Insurance Cost in Wisconsin?
High-risk premiums in Wisconsin vary by violation type, prior coverage history, and which non-standard carriers operate in your county. A first-time DUI typically raises rates 150–200% above standard premiums, while multiple violations or a suspended license can push increases to 250% or higher. Urban counties like Milwaukee and Dane see higher base rates due to accident frequency, compounding the high-risk surcharge.
What Affects Your Rate
- Violation type: DUI/OWI convictions carry steeper surcharges than license suspensions for unpaid tickets
- Time since violation: rates typically decrease 10–15% per year during the SR-22 period if you maintain continuous coverage without new violations
- County: Milwaukee, Dane, and Brown counties show higher base rates due to traffic density and claim frequency
- Prior insurance history: drivers with a lapse before their SR-22 requirement face higher premiums than those with continuous coverage
- Credit-based insurance score: Wisconsin allows insurers to use credit in underwriting, amplifying rate increases for high-risk drivers with lower scores
- Non-standard carrier availability: counties with fewer non-standard insurers leave drivers with less competitive options
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. Wisconsin's 25/50/10 minimums are often insufficient after an at-fault accident, leaving high-risk drivers personally liable for the difference.
SR-22 Insurance
A certificate filed by your insurer proving continuous coverage to the Wisconsin DOT. Required for DUI, suspended license, and other violations.
Full Coverage
Combines liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage. Protects your vehicle and others, required by lenders if you're financing.
Uninsured Motorist Coverage
Pays for your injuries if you're hit by a driver without insurance. Wisconsin does not require it, but uninsured driver rates in the state make it a practical choice.
Non-Standard Auto Insurance
Policies designed for drivers with violations, lapses, or DUIs who cannot qualify for standard carrier rates. Offers SR-22 filing and continuous coverage required for license reinstatement.
Collision Coverage
Pays to repair your vehicle after an accident, regardless of fault. Required by lenders and part of full coverage packages.
