FR44 Florida DHSMV: Filing Requirements & License Reinstatement
The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) is the state agency that oversees FR44 filings, license suspensions, and reinstatements after a DUI conviction. Understanding how the DHSMV process works can save you time, money, and frustration. Here’s everything you need to know.
What Is the DHSMV’s Role in FR44 Insurance?
The DHSMV is responsible for:
- Requiring FR44 filings after DUI convictions
- Receiving and processing FR44 certificates from insurance companies
- Suspending licenses when FR44 requirements aren’t met
- Monitoring continuous coverage for the required 3-year period
- Reinstating licenses once all requirements are satisfied
- Re-suspending licenses if FR44 coverage lapses
Your insurance company files the FR44 certificate directly with the DHSMV on your behalf. You don’t file it yourself.
FR44 Filing Requirements in Florida
The DHSMV requires FR44 filers to carry these minimum liability limits:
| Coverage Type | FR44 Minimum | Standard FL Minimum |
|---|---|---|
| Bodily Injury (per person) | $100,000 | $10,000 |
| Bodily Injury (per accident) | $300,000 | $20,000 |
| Property Damage (per accident) | $50,000 | $10,000 |
You must maintain these limits for 3 consecutive years from your license reinstatement date.
How FR44 Filing Works with the DHSMV
- You purchase FR44 insurance from a licensed carrier (through an agent like Foxx Insurance)
- Your insurance company files the FR44 electronically with the DHSMV
- The DHSMV processes the filing — typically within 24-48 hours
- Your filing status updates in the DHSMV system
- You can begin the license reinstatement process once the FR44 is confirmed on file
At Foxx Insurance, we file FR44 certificates the same day you purchase your policy.
How to Reinstate Your License with the Florida DHSMV
Getting your license back after a DUI requires completing several steps with the DHSMV:
Step 1: Complete Court Requirements
Before the DHSMV will consider reinstatement, you must complete all court-ordered requirements:
- DUI school (12-hour course for first offense)
- Substance abuse evaluation and any recommended treatment
- Community service hours
- Probation requirements
- Payment of all court fines
Step 2: Obtain FR44 Insurance
You must have an active FR44 policy on file with the DHSMV before they’ll reinstate your license. See our step-by-step guide to getting FR44 insurance.
Step 3: Pay Reinstatement Fees
The DHSMV charges reinstatement fees that vary based on your offense:
| Situation | Reinstatement Fee |
|---|---|
| First DUI conviction | costs that vary |
| Second DUI conviction | $500+ |
| Refusal to submit to testing | $500 |
| Administrative fee | $75 |
Fees can be paid at any DHSMV office, by mail, or online at FLHSMV.gov.
Step 4: Apply for Hardship License (If Eligible)
During your suspension period, you may qualify for a hardship license (also called a Business Purpose Only license) that allows limited driving:
- To and from work
- To school
- To medical appointments
- To church
- For household necessities (groceries, etc.)
Eligibility depends on your offense and whether it’s a first or repeat violation. You’ll need to apply at a DHSMV office with your FR44 on file.
Step 5: Complete Suspension Period
Suspension lengths vary by offense:
| Offense | Suspension Period |
|---|---|
| First DUI | 180 days to 1 year |
| Second DUI (within 5 years) | Minimum 5 years |
| Second DUI (after 5 years) | 180 days to 1 year |
| Third DUI (within 10 years) | Minimum 10 years |
| Fourth or subsequent DUI | Permanent revocation |
| Refusal to submit to testing (first) | 1 year |
| Refusal to submit to testing (second+) | 18 months |
Step 6: Visit a DHSMV Office
Once all requirements are met, visit a Florida DHSMV office with:
- Proof of FR44 filing (confirmation from your insurance company)
- Completion certificates (DUI school, treatment programs)
- Payment for reinstatement fees
- Valid identification
What Happens If Your FR44 Lapses?
If your FR44 insurance is canceled or lapses for any reason:
- Your insurance company notifies the DHSMV within 15 days
- The DHSMV sends you a warning notice
- If you don’t provide proof of new FR44 coverage, your license is suspended again
- You’ll need to pay reinstatement fees again
- Your 3-year FR44 clock may restart
This is why we always recommend automatic payments on your FR44 policy.
DHSMV Contact Information
- Website: www.flhsmv.gov
- Phone: (850) 617-2000
- Find a DHSMV office: DHSMV Office Locator
- Check your license status: DHSMV License Check
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I check if my FR44 is on file with the DHSMV?
You can check your license status online at the DHSMV License Check page using your driver’s license number and date of birth. You can also call the DHSMV at (850) 617-2000.
How long does it take for the DHSMV to process an FR44?
Electronic FR44 filings are typically processed within 24-48 hours. Foxx Insurance files electronically on the same day you purchase your policy.
Can I reinstate my license online?
Some reinstatements can be handled online through the FLHSMV services portal. However, DUI-related reinstatements typically require an in-person visit to a DHSMV office.
Do I need to visit the DHSMV to file my FR44?
No. Your insurance company files the FR44 electronically with the DHSMV. You don’t need to visit any office for the filing itself. You will need to visit a DHSMV office for license reinstatement.
Get Your FR44 Filed Today
Ready to get your FR44 on file with the DHSMV and start the reinstatement process? Call Foxx Insurance at (239) 228-2345 or request a free quote online. We file same-day so you can get moving on getting your license back.