Updated April 2026
Minimum Coverage Requirements in Ohio
Ohio requires minimum liability coverage of 25/50/25: $25,000 bodily injury per person, $50,000 per accident, and $25,000 property damage. Drivers convicted of DUI, driving under suspension, uninsured accidents, or accumulating 12 points in 2 years typically face SR-22 filing requirements administered by the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles. The SR-22 certificate proves continuous coverage for a specified period, and any lapse triggers license suspension and restarts the filing clock.
How Much Does Car Insurance Cost in Ohio?
High-risk auto insurance in Ohio costs significantly more than standard coverage due to violation type, driving history, and SR-22 filing requirements. Drivers with a DUI typically pay $200–$400/mo for minimum liability, while those with multiple violations or at-fault accidents may see rates climb even higher. Costs drop as violations age off your record—most traffic offenses impact rates for 3 years, while DUI surcharges can persist for 5–6 years depending on the carrier.
What Affects Your Rate
- Violation type: DUI/OVI convictions typically double or triple base rates compared to speeding tickets or minor violations
- Time since offense: rates decrease as violations age—most drop off after 3 years, DUI surcharges after 5–6 years
- SR-22 filing requirement: adds $15–$50 upfront and signals high-risk status, increasing premiums by $100–$250/mo
- Prior insurance lapse: gaps in coverage result in higher rates and may extend SR-22 filing periods
- Location: urban areas like Cleveland, Columbus, and Cincinnati see higher rates due to accident frequency and theft rates
- Vehicle type: older vehicles with liability-only coverage cost less than newer financed cars requiring full coverage
Compare Auto Insurance Rates in Ohio
Find Your City in Ohio
Sources
- Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles - SR-22 Requirements and Reinstatement Procedures
- Ohio Department of Insurance - Minimum Auto Insurance Coverage Standards
- Ohio Revised Code Section 4509 - Financial Responsibility and SR-22 Filing