
Wisconsin SR-22 & High-Risk Auto Insurance Guide
Wisconsin requires 25/50/10 liability coverage and is an at-fault state.
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Wisconsin at a Glance
25/50/10
Minimum liability limits, in thousands of dollars (per person / per accident / property)
At-fault
The at-fault driver's insurance pays for the damage they cause
Required
Uninsured motorist coverage must be on every policy
$60
State license reinstatement fee, about 2 days to process
Source: state DMV, insurance department and statute records, verified July 2026
State Requirements
Drivers with DUI convictions, multiple violations, at-fault accidents while uninsured, or license suspensions must file SR-22 proof of insurance with the Wisconsin Department of Transportation. The state does not offer hardship licenses for most SR-22 situations, meaning drivers must maintain continuous coverage for the entire requirement period.
Liability Insurance
SR-22 Insurance
Uninsured Motorist Coverage
Underinsured Motorist Coverage
Comprehensive and Collision
Cost Overview
$33/mo
Typical monthly rate in Wisconsin, non-owner policies
Rate data: Insure.com, 2026
What Affects Your Rate
- Violation type (DUI/OWI increases rates more than speeding tickets)
- Time since violation (rates decrease after 3–5 years with clean record)
- SR-22 filing requirement and duration remaining
- Prior insurance coverage history and lapses
- Location within Wisconsin (Milwaukee and Madison have higher rates than rural areas)
- Vehicle type and value (newer financed vehicles increase comprehensive/collision costs)

Stay Covered While You Drive Borrowed Cars
Find Coverage After ViolationsIf your license is suspended
Occupational License (Occupational Operator License)
application fee $50, about 0 days to process.
A coverage lapse is reported
The state acts on a lapse after 0 days.
Source: state DMV, insurance department and statute records, verified July 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do I need SR-22 in Wisconsin after a DUI?
Wisconsin requires 3 years of continuous SR-22 filing after a DUI/OWI conviction, starting from your license reinstatement date. If your coverage lapses at any point during those 3 years, Wisconsin DOT suspends your license immediately and the entire 3-year requirement period restarts from your new reinstatement date. You must maintain the SR-22 filing for the full period without interruption to satisfy the state's proof-of-responsibility requirement.
Which insurance companies offer SR-22 in Wisconsin?
Non-standard carriers including The General, Direct Auto, National General, Bristol West, and Dairyland (headquartered in Wisconsin) commonly write SR-22 policies for high-risk drivers in the state. Standard carriers like State Farm and Progressive may offer SR-22 filing for existing customers with minor violations, but typically decline or non-renew policies after DUI convictions. Working with an independent agent who represents multiple non-standard carriers helps you compare options for your specific violation history.
Do I need SR-22 for a reckless driving ticket in Wisconsin?
Wisconsin may require SR-22 filing after a reckless driving conviction depending on the circumstances and whether it resulted in license suspension or court order. Drivers who accumulate 12 or more points in 12 months also trigger SR-22 requirements regardless of specific violation type. If the court or Wisconsin DOT orders proof of financial responsibility, you must maintain SR-22 filing for 3 years, though less severe reckless driving convictions without license suspension may not trigger the requirement.
Coverage Types
SR-22 Insurance
Certificate filed by your insurer proving you carry Wisconsin's minimum liability. Required for 3 years after DUI, license suspension, or uninsured accidents. The filing costs $15–$35, but the policy itself carries high-risk premiums.
Non-Owner SR-22 Insurance
Liability coverage for drivers who do not own a vehicle but must maintain SR-22 filing to keep license eligibility. Covers you when driving borrowed or rental vehicles.
Liability Insurance
Covers injuries and property damage you cause to others. Wisconsin minimums are 25/50/10, but high-risk drivers should consider 50/100/25 or higher to protect assets in the event of another at-fault accident.
Uninsured Motorist Coverage
Pays for your injuries and damages when an at-fault driver has no insurance. Wisconsin does not require UM coverage but insurers must offer it at limits matching your liability policy.
Comprehensive Coverage
Covers vehicle damage from theft, vandalism, weather, fire, or animal collisions. Required by lienholders on financed vehicles regardless of your driving record.
Collision Coverage
Covers damage to your vehicle from accidents regardless of fault. Required by lienholders and recommended for newer vehicles, but may not be cost-effective for older cars owned outright.