Updated March 2026
State Requirements
Wisconsin requires minimum liability coverage of 25/50/10: $25,000 bodily injury per person, $50,000 per accident, and $10,000 property damage. Uninsured motorist coverage is also mandatory at the same limits unless explicitly rejected in writing. Drivers with DUI convictions, license suspensions for multiple violations, at-fault accidents while uninsured, or habitual traffic offender status must file SR-22 proof of financial responsibility with the Wisconsin DMV. State minimums typically cover basic reinstatement, but non-standard carriers often recommend higher limits to avoid policy cancellation risks.
Cost Overview
High-risk auto insurance premiums in Wisconsin vary widely based on violation type, time since offense, and carrier underwriting criteria. DUI offenders typically face the highest surcharges — 180–250% above standard rates — while drivers with clean records but coverage lapses may see increases of 30–70%. Non-standard carriers dominate this market and price aggressively for drivers willing to accept higher deductibles or multi-month prepayment terms.
What Affects Your Rate
- DUI/OWI violation increases premiums 180–250% for 3–5 years in Wisconsin; surcharge decreases annually if no new violations occur
- SR-22 filing requirement itself adds $15–$35 to initial premium and $10–$25 annually; the violation causing SR-22 drives the majority of rate increase
- Multiple at-fault accidents or violations within 3 years may push drivers into assigned risk pool with premiums exceeding $600/month
- ZIP code and county — Milwaukee, Racine, and Kenosha drivers face 20–40% higher premiums than rural Wisconsin due to accident frequency and uninsured motorist rates
- Payment plan — monthly EFT enrollment often reduces total premium 5–10% versus pay-in-full or installment billing
- Time since violation — most carriers reduce DUI surcharges by 20–30% at the 3-year mark and by 50–70% after 5 years with no new incidents
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Coverage Options
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Frequently Asked Questions
Sources
- Wisconsin Department of Transportation — Division of Motor Vehicles
- Wisconsin Office of the Commissioner of Insurance
- Wisconsin Statutes Chapter 344 — Suspension and Revocation