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Auto Insurance — Idaho

Idaho requires 25/50/15 liability coverage and is an at-fault state.

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Idaho at a Glance

25/50/15

Minimum liability limits, in thousands of dollars (per person / per accident / property)

At-fault

The at-fault driver's insurance pays for the damage they cause

Optional

PIP and uninsured motorist coverage are not required by law

$25

State license reinstatement fee

Source: state DMV, insurance department and statute records, verified July 2026

Minimum Coverage Requirements in Idaho

Idaho operates under a tort liability system — the at-fault driver's insurance pays for injuries and property damage. The Idaho Transportation Department requires continuous proof of insurance during and after suspension for most violation types. SR-22 filing is mandatory for DUI convictions, reckless driving, excessive points (12+ in 12 months), uninsured accidents, and certain court-ordered reinstatements.

Bodily Injury Liability

Covers medical expenses, lost wages, and legal costs when you injure someone in an at-fault accident. Most suspended license drivers select 50/100 limits to reduce exposure during the high-risk reinstatement period.

Property Damage Liability

Pays for vehicle and property damage you cause to others.

SR-22 Certificate of Financial Responsibility

The SR-22 is not insurance — it is a filing your carrier submits to the Idaho Transportation Department proving you maintain continuous coverage at state minimums. Missing a single payment triggers automatic notification to ITD within 10 days, which reinstates your suspension immediately. The 3-year filing period begins the day ITD receives the SR-22, not the day you purchase the policy.

Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage

Covers your medical bills and vehicle damage when the at-fault driver has no insurance or insufficient limits. Idaho does not mandate this coverage, but lenders require it on financed vehicles. Suspended license drivers cannot reject this coverage during the SR-22 period at most carriers.

Non-Owner SR-22 Insurance

Provides liability coverage and SR-22 filing for drivers who do not own a vehicle but need to satisfy reinstatement requirements. Idaho Transportation Department accepts non-owner SR-22 filings for all suspension types except commercial driver reinstatements. This is the primary option for suspended drivers who sold their vehicle, use public transit, or borrow cars occasionally.

What Drivers Pay in Idaho

$142–$287/mo

Typical monthly rate in Idaho, high-risk drivers after a DUI

Rate data: ValuePenguin and Insurify, 2026

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Get Back to a Fair Rate in Idaho After a DUI

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If your license is suspended

Restricted Driving Permit (RDP)

application fee $60, about 5 days to process.

A coverage lapse is reported

The state acts on a lapse after 60 days.

Source: state DMV, insurance department and statute records, verified July 2026

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need insurance if my Idaho license is suspended?

Yes, in most cases. Idaho Transportation Department requires continuous insurance coverage during suspension for DUI, excessive points, uninsured accidents, and most court-ordered suspensions. Letting coverage lapse during suspension extends the suspension period and delays reinstatement eligibility. Non-owner SR-22 insurance satisfies this requirement if you do not own a vehicle.

How long does Idaho require SR-22 filing after a DUI?

Idaho requires SR-22 filing for 3 years after a DUI conviction, measured from the date Idaho Transportation Department receives the SR-22, not the conviction date or policy purchase date. Missing a single payment during the 3-year period triggers automatic notification to ITD within 10 days and reinstates your suspension immediately.

What happens if my SR-22 insurance lapses in Idaho?

Your carrier notifies Idaho Transportation Department within 10 days of the lapse. ITD reinstates your suspension immediately and the SR-22 filing period resets — you start the full 3-year requirement over from the date a new SR-22 is filed. There is no grace period.

Does Idaho offer hardship licenses during suspension?

Idaho does not offer hardship licenses, but restricted driving permits are available for certain suspension types after a waiting period. DUI offenders must serve a minimum 30-day absolute suspension before applying for a restricted permit, which allows driving to work, school, medical appointments, and court-ordered treatment. The permit requires SR-22 filing and ignition interlock installation for DUI suspensions.

Can I switch insurance carriers during my SR-22 period in Idaho?

Yes, but you must ensure continuous coverage with no gap. The new carrier files an SR-22 with Idaho Transportation Department before the old policy cancels — any lapse, even one day, triggers suspension reinstatement. Most suspended drivers stay with the same carrier for the full 3-year period to avoid filing coordination errors.