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A serious driving violation can leave you dealing with more than points on your license or a fine. In some cases, getting back on the road also means proving to your state that you have the right amount of auto insurance. That’s where an SR-22 comes in.
Despite the name, SR-22 insurance isn’t a special type of policy. It’s a form your insurer files with the state on your behalf, typically after an offense such as a DUI, reckless driving, or driving without insurance. The filing can come with higher insurance costs and extra requirements.
Here’s what you’ll need to understand about what an SR-22 means for your coverage and your wallet.
Key Points
• SR-22 is a form your insurer files with the state DMV as proof that you carry the minimum required coverage.
• A court or a department of motor vehicles (DMV) typically requires an SR-22 after a serious driving offense such as a DUI, reckless driving, or driving without insurance.
• A driver who needs to file an SR-22 must contact their insurance company, which verifies the policy meets state requirements and then files the form on the driver’s behalf.
• The filing must usually be maintained for three years, and coverage must remain uninterrupted during that period to avoid license suspension.
• If they don’t own a car, a person ordered to file an SR-22 may need to purchase a nonowner insurance policy to comply.
Understanding SR-22 and Insurance
First of all, despite the name, an SR-22 is not a type of auto insurance.
Rather, it’s a form that’s filed with your state’s department of motor vehicles (DMV) that serves as proof of insurance to show that you have coverage that meets the minimum standards required by your state — and that you will maintain that coverage for a specified period. It may also sometimes be called a Certificate of Financial Responsibility.
An SR-22 is usually required if you’ve committed any serious driving infractions. The list of violations that might require an SR-22 includes driving without insurance, a DUI (driving under the influence) or DWI (driving while intoxicated or impaired), reckless driving, a hit-and-run, or otherwise having your license suspended or revoked.
SR-22 vs. FR-44: What’s the Difference?
An SR-22 and an FR-44 both serve as proof that a driver is carrying the required auto insurance coverage. However, an FR-44 generally requires higher liability coverage limits.
Liability insurance is a type of car insurance that pays for the cost of injury or damage that you cause to other people when you’re in an accident. It will typically cover medical bills and property damage for other people, but it won’t cover your own injuries or damage to your own property.
Because it demands a higher level of liability insurance, an FR-44 is more likely to be required for those who have committed more serious offenses, such as DUIs, or who have been convicted of repeat offenses. However, this form is currently only used in Florida and Virginia.
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Who Needs an SR-22 to Prove Insurance?
Most drivers never need to file a form SR-22. Typically, however, you will have to prove that you’re carrying insurance when you register your vehicle — every year, in most states.
If you need to file an SR-22, you’ll either be notified by a judge at an in-person hearing or you’ll be notified by mail through your state’s DMV.
Offenses that require you to file an SR-22 can include:
• Driving while underinsured or uninsured
• DUI and DWI convictions
• Reckless driving
• Too many at-fault accidents or traffic violations
• Repeat traffic offenses
A suspended driver’s license may also lead to an SR-22. Not all suspensions stem from traffic violations. For example, a court might suspend your license if you fail to pay court-ordered child support.
How to Get an SR-22
If you’re required to file an SR-22, first contact your insurance company and let it know. You may need to provide your insurer with a copy of the letter from the DMV or the mandate from the state.
Your insurer will make sure that your policy meets state requirements for how much insurance you need. It will then file the form with your state on your behalf. Once the filing is complete, contact your DMV to confirm that the agency has received it.
One caveat: Not every insurance company is willing to insure drivers who need an SR-22. Because the filing often indicates a high-risk driving history, your current insurer may decline to renew your policy. As a result, you may have to shop around and get car insurance from another company willing to extend coverage and file an SR-22 for you.
How Much Does an SR-22 Cost?
The cost of an SR-22 will vary depending on what state you live in and your insurance company. Fees may cost up to $200 per year.
Additionally, filing an SR-22 will likely raise the cost of your car insurance. It’s not the form itself that leads to spiking rates, but the infraction that resulted in the need for you to file the form. The type of infraction will typically determine how much your rates rise.
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How Long Do You Need an SR-22?
You’ll typically need to maintain your SR-22 for three years, though in some states you may need it for longer. During that period, your coverage must be uninterrupted. Canceling it during this time could lead to license suspension or other penalties.
Note that your SR-22 filing doesn’t come to an end automatically when your required period is over. You’ll have to notify your insurance company and have it remove the filing with your state’s DMV.
The Takeaway
If you’re required to file an SR-22, it’s prudent to focus on keeping your coverage active, meeting your state’s requirements, and understanding when the filing can be removed. And because different insurers treat driving violations differently, shopping around may help you find more affordable coverage while you work your way back to a clean record.
When you’re ready to shop for auto insurance, SoFi can help. Our online auto insurance comparison tool lets you see quotes from a network of top insurance providers within minutes, saving you time and hassle.
SoFi brings you real rates, with no bait and switch.
FAQ
What happens if my SR-22 insurance lapses?
An SR-22 is not a type of insurance, but it is a form you may be required to file with your state DMV that certifies you’re carrying state-required auto insurance for a specified period of time, usually three years. If your insurance lapses during that period, your license could be suspended and you could face other penalties.
Do I need SR-22 insurance if I don’t own a car?
If a court orders you to file an SR-22, you must do so even if you don’t own a car. You may purchase a non-owner insurance policy.
How long does an SR-22 stay on your record?
The SR-22 typically stays on your record for three years. However, some major driving infractions may stay on your record for longer.
Does SR-22 insurance affect my regular car insurance rates?
Simply filing the SR-22 does not necessarily affect your car insurance rates. However, the infraction that led to the SR-22 — such as a DUI or reckless driving — will likely cause your rates to rise.
Can I get SR-22 insurance in a state I don’t live in?
Yes, you can get an SR-22 in a state you don’t live in. Your insurer will have to be licensed in your state of residence and in the state requiring the SR-22, and you’ll need to ask it to file a cross-state SR-22 filing. Your insurance company will help make sure you comply with any state requirements.
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