Yes — for most Florida DUI convictions, you need both. FR44 insurance and an ignition interlock device (IID) are separate requirements imposed by separate authorities. One doesn't satisfy the other, and skipping either one keeps your license suspended.
| Requirement | What It Is | Who Requires It | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| FR44 Insurance | Certificate of financial responsibility — proves you carry $100K/$300K bodily injury + $50K property damage coverage | Florida DHSMV | 3 years from reinstatement (continuous) |
| Ignition Interlock Device (IID) | Breathalyzer installed in your vehicle — car won't start if BAC ≥ 0.025% | Court order + DHSMV | Varies by conviction (see table below) |
| DUI Situation | IID Required? | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| First DUI, BAC < 0.15 | Court discretion — not always mandated | If ordered: typically 6 months |
| First DUI, BAC ≥ 0.15 or minor in vehicle | Yes — mandatory | Minimum 6 months |
| Second DUI (within 5 years) | Yes — mandatory | Minimum 1 year |
| Second DUI (after 5 years) | Yes — mandatory | Minimum 1 year |
| Third DUI (within 10 years) | Yes — mandatory | Minimum 2 years |
| Third DUI (felony, after 10 years) | Yes — mandatory | Minimum 2 years |
| Fourth or subsequent DUI | Yes — mandatory | Minimum 5 years |
Yes — they run concurrently, not consecutively. This is a common source of confusion. You don't complete your IID requirement and then start your FR44 period. Both start when your license is reinstated, and both run simultaneously.
Example: First DUI with BAC 0.18
If you don't own a vehicle, you need a non-owner FR44 policy — not a standard owner policy. The non-owner policy satisfies the DHSMV FR44 insurance requirement even if you have no vehicle to insure.
IID question for non-owners: If you have a court-ordered IID requirement but no vehicle, Florida courts typically require you to install an IID on any vehicle you regularly drive — including borrowed vehicles. This is a gray area that varies by county judge. Discuss with your DUI attorney.
| Your Situation | FR44 Needed | IID Needed |
|---|---|---|
| Own a vehicle, DUI conviction | Owner FR44 policy | Installed in your vehicle |
| No vehicle, DUI conviction | Non-owner FR44 ($14–$35/mo) | Court-dependent; discuss with attorney |
| No vehicle, driving borrowed car regularly | Non-owner FR44 | May be required in borrowed vehicle |
| No vehicle, not driving at all | Non-owner FR44 still required for license reinstatement | Typically waived by court if not driving |
The IID requirement comes with real costs that continue throughout the requirement period:
Florida-approved IID providers include Intoxalock, Smart Start, and LifeSafer. DHSMV maintains a current approved vendor list at flhsmv.gov.
Both requirements must be satisfied before DHSMV will reinstate your license:
Steps 4 and 5 happen simultaneously — neither comes before the other. We can file your FR44 the same day you install the IID.
Can I get FR44 before installing the IID?
Yes. You can purchase FR44 insurance at any time. DHSMV won't reinstate your license until both FR44 is filed and IID is installed (if required), but getting FR44 early is smart — it lets you move faster once the IID is in place.
What if my IID shows a violation — does that affect my FR44?
IID violations are reported to the court and DHSMV separately from your insurance. An IID violation doesn't directly affect your FR44 status, but court-imposed penalties (license suspension, extended IID requirement) can affect when your FR44 period ends.
Can I get FR44 and IID in the same day?
FR44 — yes, same day with us. IID installation typically requires a scheduled appointment with a service provider (1–3 business days). We recommend getting FR44 first so the filing is ready the moment your IID is installed.
Does the IID count toward my 3-year FR44 requirement?
Yes — the 3-year FR44 clock and the IID period run simultaneously from the date of reinstatement. Completing your IID requirement doesn't restart or extend the FR44 clock.
My IID period ended but I still need FR44. What changes?
Nothing about the FR44 coverage changes. Once your IID is removed, you drive normally — but you must maintain the FR44 filing continuously until the 3-year requirement is satisfied. A lapse suspends your license even after the IID is gone.
Ready to Get Your FR44 Filed?
Same-day electronic filing to DHSMV. All Florida counties. Non-owner policies available.