Only 2 months remain on the FR-44! My partner’s car insurance is set to renew next month, and his FR-44 will expire in mid-May. He only needs to maintain the FR-44 for another 2.5 months. However, the quotes he’s getting are all for 6 months and are over $2000. Does he really need to keep the FR-44 for the full 6 months? Once the FR-44 expires, can he cancel it and evaluate his options again?
We’re located in Florida.
In Florida, an FR-44 is a special type of certificate that indicates a driver has obtained the required minimum liability insurance after a DUI or other serious offense. While the FR-44 certificate itself may not last longer than the mandated period (in your case, until mid-May), insurance policies often come in 6-month increments.
Here are a few key points:
Duration of Coverage: Even if the FR-44 only needs to be in effect for a little over 2 months more, insurance companies typically issue policies in 6-month terms. This means you’ll likely have to pay for the entire 6-month premium upfront, even though you might only need coverage for a shorter period.
Cancellation and Reassessment: After the FR-44 requirement expires in mid-May, your partner can cancel the insurance. However, it’s a good idea to clarify that with the insurance provider. Some providers may allow you to evaluate your needs after the FR-44 period, potentially offering a new policy or different rates.
Cost Considerations: Given that quotes are coming in at over $2000, it may be worth shopping around or considering different providers, as rates can vary significantly. Some companies specialize in high-risk insurance and may offer more competitive rates.
Consulting the DMV or Legal Advice: If there are any uncertainties, it might be useful to consult the Florida DMV or seek legal advice if needed to ensure compliance with the FR-44 requirements and to understand any implications of cancelling the insurance after the expiration.
In conclusion, while you may not legally need the FR-44 for 6 months, insurance providers often require it to be paid for that length of time. It would be wise to evaluate the options and consider seeking assistance to find the most affordable insurance solution.