Updated March 2026
State Requirements
Idaho requires minimum liability coverage of 25/50/15: $25,000 per person for bodily injury, $50,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $15,000 for property damage. Drivers with DUI convictions, license suspensions for violations, at-fault accidents without insurance, or accumulating excessive points must file SR-22 with the Idaho Transportation Department. The SR-22 certifies continuous coverage and any lapse triggers immediate license suspension and restarts the 3-year filing period. These minimums often prove insufficient for high-risk drivers facing lawsuits from prior incidents.
Cost Overview
High-risk auto insurance in Idaho costs $2,400–$4,800 annually for drivers with SR-22 requirements, compared to $700–$1,200 for standard profiles. DUI convictions increase premiums 100–180% for the first 3 years, while at-fault accidents with injuries increase rates 60–110%. Idaho allows insurers to surcharge violations for 3 years, meaning rates remain elevated throughout the SR-22 filing period before declining as violations age beyond the chargeable window.
What Affects Your Rate
- Violation type and severity: DUI increases rates 100–180%, at-fault accidents 60–110%, suspended license 50–90%
- Time since violation: Surcharges peak in year one and decline gradually through year three before dropping off
- SR-22 filing duration remaining: Carriers assess higher risk for drivers early in 3-year requirement period
- Prior insurance lapse length: Gaps exceeding 30 days increase rates 20–40% beyond violation surcharges
- Geographic location: Boise metro averages 15–25% higher than rural counties due to accident frequency
- Vehicle type and value: Older vehicles without collision coverage reduce premiums $600–$1,200 annually
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Frequently Asked Questions
Sources
- Idaho Transportation Department - SR-22 Requirements and Financial Responsibility
- Idaho Department of Insurance - Minimum Coverage Requirements
- Idaho Code Title 49 Chapter 12 - Financial Responsibility
- Insurance Research Council - Uninsured Motorists Study