Minimum Coverage Requirements in Maine
Maine requires minimum liability coverage of 50/100/25: $50,000 per person for bodily injury, $100,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $25,000 for property damage. The Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles typically mandates SR-22 filing for DUI convictions, serious moving violations, at-fault accidents without insurance, and license suspensions related to driving offenses. High-risk drivers often need coverage above these minimums to satisfy reinstatement requirements and protect against future liability exposure. The SR-22 filing itself is a certificate proving continuous coverage — not a separate insurance policy.
How Much Does Car Insurance Cost in Maine?
High-risk auto insurance in Maine costs $200–$400/mo on average, compared to $80–$140/mo for drivers with clean records. Your exact rate depends on violation type (DUI costs 80–120% more than a lapse), how long ago the incident occurred, your age, vehicle, and which non-standard carriers are willing to write you. Maine does not prohibit insurers from using credit-based insurance scores, so poor credit combined with a violation can push premiums into the $450–$550/mo range.
What Affects Your Rate
- Violation type: DUI increases rates 80–120%, at-fault accidents 40–70%, lapses 30–60%
- Time since violation: rates drop 10–20% per year if you maintain continuous coverage without new incidents
- SR-22 filing status: active requirement signals high risk; completion of 3-year period opens access to more competitive carriers
- Non-standard vs. standard market: non-standard carriers charge $100–$200/mo more but accept violations standard carriers decline
- Credit score: Maine allows credit-based insurance scoring, which can add 20–50% to premiums if your score is below 650
- Vehicle type: newer vehicles with full coverage cost $80–$150/mo more than liability-only on older cars
Your SR-22 period is ending — you can access standard rates again
Most drivers see significant savings when they transition off SR-22. Compare current rates now.
Get Your Free QuoteCoverage Types
Liability Insurance
Pays for injuries and property damage you cause to others in an at-fault accident. Maine requires 50/100/25 minimums, but a serious accident can generate $200,000–$500,000 in claims, leaving you personally liable for the difference if you carry only minimums.
SR-22 Insurance
Certificate filed by your insurer with the Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles proving you carry continuous liability coverage. Required after DUI, serious violations, or uninsured accidents, typically for 3 years. Any lapse triggers immediate license suspension.
Full Coverage
Combination of liability, comprehensive, and collision coverage. Protects both your legal responsibility and your vehicle's value. Required by lenders if you finance or lease, optional if you own your car outright.
Uninsured Motorist Coverage
Covers your medical bills and lost wages if you are hit by a driver without insurance or with inadequate limits. Maine requires insurers to offer it at the same limits as your liability policy; you must decline in writing to opt out.
Comprehensive Coverage
Covers damage to your vehicle from non-collision events: theft, vandalism, fire, weather, falling objects, and animal strikes. Pays actual cash value minus your deductible.
Non-Standard Auto Insurance
Coverage from insurers specializing in high-risk drivers: DUI, suspended license, SR-22 requirements, multiple violations, or lapses. These carriers accept risks that standard insurers decline but charge higher premiums and may require upfront payment or higher limits.
