Root Insurance and FR-44 Filings: What Drivers Should Know

Root built its model on telematics — the app scores your driving and prices from that. It is a good fit for clean drivers. It is a much narrower fit once a DUI and an FR-44 requirement are on your record.

The problem with app-based underwriting after a DUI

Root's pricing advantage comes from rewarding low-risk behavior. A DUI conviction removes you from that pool in most states, and Root does not write in every state or file every certificate type. Before you spend two weeks on a test-drive period, confirm three things in writing:

1. That the company writes in your state.

2. That it files FR-44s, not just SR-22s.

3. That it will hold the quoted price after your motor vehicle report is pulled.

Why the FR-44 changes the math

Florida and Virginia FR-44s require 100/300/50 liability limits. Many app-first carriers quote at state minimums and re-rate sharply at higher limits. The number you see before the MVR pull is rarely the number you pay.

The practical alternative

Non-standard carriers — Dairyland, Bristol West, Gainsco, Infinity and others — were built for this. They file electronically, accept DUI records without a scoring period, and can bind coverage the same day so reinstatement is not delayed.

Do not cancel first

If you already carry coverage, bind the new policy before cancelling. Any gap sends a cancellation notice to the state and re-suspends your license.

Compare before you commit

We quote the carriers that actually file FR-44s and SR-22s, side by side, and transmit the filing the day you buy.