Minimum Coverage Requirements in Wisconsin
Wisconsin requires minimum liability coverage of 25/50/10: $25,000 bodily injury per person, $50,000 per accident, and $10,000 property damage. Drivers with DUI convictions, license suspensions for reckless driving, or at-fault accidents while uninsured must file SR-22 certification with the Wisconsin Department of Transportation. The SR-22 requirement typically lasts 3 years from the date of reinstatement, during which your insurer electronically notifies the state that you maintain continuous coverage.
How Much Does Car Insurance Cost in Wisconsin?
Wisconsin high-risk insurance premiums vary widely based on violation type, age, location, and driving history. DUI convictions typically carry the highest surcharges—often 200–300% above standard rates—while at-fault accidents and license suspensions result in 100–200% increases. Post-SR22 drivers who maintain clean records see rates begin to normalize within 12–18 months, with full recovery to standard pricing typically occurring 3–5 years after the SR-22 requirement ends.
What Affects Your Rate
- Violation type: OWI/DUI convictions carry the highest surcharges in Wisconsin, often doubling or tripling base premiums
- Time since violation: Rates drop incrementally each year of clean driving; the 12-month anniversary after SR-22 ends is a key re-shopping trigger
- Urban vs. rural location: Milwaukee and Madison drivers pay 20–40% more due to higher accident and theft rates
- Age and gender: Drivers under 25 with SR-22 requirements face compounded surcharges, sometimes exceeding $500/mo for full coverage
- Carrier specialization: Non-standard carriers price SR-22 risk aggressively; shopping 3–5 quotes can yield 30–50% rate variation
- Credit-based insurance score: Wisconsin allows credit scoring, and post-violation drivers with rebuilt credit see faster rate recovery
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
Covers injuries and property damage you cause to others. Required for SR-22 filing and the foundation of every Wisconsin auto policy.
SR-22 Filing
Electronic certificate filed by your insurer with the Wisconsin DOT proving continuous liability coverage. Not a policy, but a compliance requirement.
Full Coverage
Liability plus comprehensive and collision, protecting both your legal obligation and your vehicle's value.
Uninsured Motorist Coverage
Protects you when hit by an uninsured or underinsured driver. Optional in Wisconsin but often underpriced relative to risk.
Comprehensive Coverage
Covers non-collision losses: theft, vandalism, fire, weather, glass, and animal strikes. Does not affect fault status.
Collision Coverage
Pays for damage to your vehicle in an at-fault accident or collision with an object, minus your deductible.
