Updated March 2026
State Requirements
Pennsylvania requires minimum liability coverage of 15/30/5: $15,000 bodily injury per person, $30,000 bodily injury per accident, and $5,000 property damage. These minimums are among the lowest in the nation and rarely sufficient for drivers with prior at-fault accidents or violations. The state requires SR-22 filing for DUI convictions, multiple serious violations within a short period, driving uninsured, and license suspensions related to traffic offenses. Pennsylvania also mandates first-party medical benefits coverage for all drivers.
Cost Overview
High-risk auto insurance in Pennsylvania costs $2,200–$4,500 annually for drivers with DUI, multiple violations, or SR-22 requirements — roughly 150–300% above standard rates. Costs vary by violation type, time since incident, coverage level, and carrier. Philadelphia and Pittsburgh drivers face higher premiums due to urban density and accident frequency, while rural counties see lower base rates but similar surcharges for violations.
What Affects Your Rate
- Violation type and severity: DUI convictions increase rates 180–250%, while multiple speeding tickets or at-fault accidents add 60–120% each
- Time since incident: Rates decrease incrementally each year — DUI impact drops from 200%+ in year one to 80–100% by year three if no new violations occur
- SR-22 filing requirement: The filing itself adds minimal cost, but the underlying violations triggering SR-22 cause the premium increase
- Coverage level and deductibles: State minimum policies cost less upfront but offer no physical damage protection; higher deductibles ($1,000–$2,500) reduce premiums 15–25%
- Geographic location: Philadelphia County high-risk rates average $3,800–$5,200 annually due to urban density, while rural counties like Fulton and Forest see $2,000–$3,200 for similar profiles
- Prior insurance history: Coverage lapses add 25–50% to high-risk premiums; maintaining continuous coverage even after violations reduces surcharges over time
Get non-owner SR-22 coverage without owning a vehicle
Compare carriers that offer non-owner policies with SR-22 filing — required for reinstatement in most states.
Get Your Free QuoteCoverage Types
Liability Insurance
Covers bodily injury and property damage you cause to others. Pennsylvania's 15/30/5 minimums are insufficient for serious accidents — consider 50/100/50 or higher if you have prior at-fault claims.
SR-22 Filing
Certificate filed by your insurer proving continuous coverage to PennDOT. Required for DUI, driving uninsured, or habitual offender designation for 3 years minimum.
Uninsured Motorist Coverage
Covers your injuries and damages if hit by an uninsured or underinsured driver. Pennsylvania requires insurers to offer UM/UIM, but you can reject it in writing.
Collision Coverage
Pays for damage to your vehicle after an accident, regardless of fault. Required by lenders if you finance or lease a vehicle.
Comprehensive Coverage
Covers non-collision damage: theft, vandalism, weather, hitting a deer. Pennsylvania sees high deer-strike frequency in rural counties.
First-Party Benefits (Medical)
Mandatory coverage providing at least $5,000 for medical treatment after an accident, regardless of fault. Part of Pennsylvania's choice no-fault system.
