An SR-22 is not insurance—it's a certificate proving you carry auto liability coverage. States require SR-22 filings after serious violations to verify continuous coverage for high-risk drivers.
Licensed agents at 1-800-INSURANCE (1-800-467-8726) can help you obtain SR-22 coverage and maintain compliance.
What Is an SR-22?#
An SR-22 (or SR-22A in some states) is a form your insurance company files with the state DMV or DDS certifying you maintain minimum liability coverage. The filing creates a direct link between your insurer and the state—if coverage lapses, your insurer notifies the DMV immediately, triggering license suspension.
Common Reasons for SR-22 Requirements#
States typically mandate SR-22s after:
- DUI or DWI convictions: Most common trigger
- Reckless driving or excessive speeding
- Driving without insurance (uninsured motorist violations)
- At-fault accidents without insurance
- Accumulating excessive points
- Multiple traffic violations in short periods
- License reinstatement after suspension or revocation
Requirements vary by state and violation severity.
How Long Do You Need an SR-22?#
Typical filing periods range from 3 to 5 years depending on state and violation:
- California: 3 years for most violations
- Florida: 3 years typically
- Texas: 2-3 years depending on offense
- Illinois: 3 years for DUI
- Virginia: 3 years standard
- Georgia: 3 years for DUI
- Ohio: 3-5 years based on violations
The clock restarts if coverage lapses during the filing period.
SR-22 vs. FR-44#
Some states use FR-44 certificates requiring higher liability limits:
- Florida: FR-44 for DUI convictions (100/300/50 minimums)
- Virginia: FR-44 for DUI/repeat offenses (50/100/40 minimums)
FR-44 costs more due to higher required limits.
How to Obtain an SR-22#
- Contact an insurance company: Not all carriers offer SR-22 policies; work with agents who specialize in high-risk coverage
- Purchase qualifying liability coverage: Meet or exceed state minimum limits
- Request SR-22 filing: Insurer files electronically with your state
- Pay filing fee: Typically $15-$50 one-time fee
- Receive proof: State confirms filing; you receive documentation
Processing takes 3-10 business days in most states.
SR-22 Insurance Costs#
Expect significantly higher premiums than standard policies due to high-risk classification:
- Filing fee: $15-$50 one-time
- Premium increases: 50-300% above standard rates depending on violations
- Total annual cost: Often $1,500-$5,000+ depending on state, violation, and driving history
DUI convictions typically trigger the highest increases.
Types of SR-22 Policies#
Owner SR-22#
Covers vehicles you own and drive. Most common type.
Non-Owner SR-22#
For drivers without a vehicle who need to maintain license compliance. Provides liability coverage when driving borrowed or rental cars. Often used when:
- Surrendering your vehicle
- Using public transportation
- Preparing to purchase a vehicle later
Operator SR-22#
Covers you driving any vehicle (similar to non-owner but requirements vary by state).
Maintaining SR-22 Compliance#
Critical requirements during your filing period:
- Never let coverage lapse: Even one day triggers state notification and license suspension
- Maintain continuous coverage: Switching insurers requires new SR-22 filing before canceling old policy
- Pay premiums on time: Late payments risk cancellation and lapse notification
- Keep proof accessible: Carry SR-22 documentation and insurance card always
- Notify state when period ends: Some states require formal release of SR-22 requirement
What Happens If SR-22 Lapses?#
Coverage lapses trigger immediate consequences:
- State notification: Insurer reports lapse within 24 hours electronically
- License suspension: DMV suspends license automatically
- Filing period restarts: You'll need to complete full period from scratch
- Reinstatement fees: Additional DMV fees to restore license
- Extended requirements: Some states add extra time for lapses
Avoid lapses at all costs—set up automatic payments and calendar reminders.
Shopping for SR-22 Insurance#
Not all insurers offer SR-22 policies. Options include:
- Standard carriers with high-risk divisions
- Non-standard/high-risk specialists
- State assigned risk pools (last resort, highest cost)
Compare quotes from multiple SR-22 specialists. Factors affecting cost:
- Violation type and severity
- Driving history beyond triggering event
- Vehicle type
- Coverage limits chosen
- Deductibles
- State of residence
Reducing SR-22 Insurance Costs#
Strategies to lower premiums:
- Maintain clean record: No additional violations during filing period
- Complete driver improvement courses: May qualify for discounts
- Bundle policies: Add renters or other coverage
- Increase deductibles: If carrying physical damage coverage
- Pay premiums in full: Avoid monthly installment fees
- Review annually: Rates may decrease as time from violation increases
SR-22 and Moving to Another State#
If you move during your SR-22 period:
- Check new state requirements: Some states won't accept out-of-state SR-22s
- Obtain new policy in new state: Purchase coverage meeting new state rules
- File SR-22 in new state: Ensure continuous filing without gaps
- Maintain old state filing if required: Some states require filing until period ends regardless of move
Coordinate carefully to avoid lapses when relocating.
After Your SR-22 Period Ends#
Once you complete the required filing period:
- Verify completion with DMV: Confirm filing requirement officially released
- Shop for standard insurance: You may qualify for better rates and broader carrier options
- Request removal: Some states automatically remove requirement; others require you to request it
- Maintain clean record: Future violations will trigger harsher penalties
Completing your SR-22 period successfully is crucial to rebuilding your driving record.
Common SR-22 Myths#
- "SR-22 is a type of insurance": False—it's a certificate proving you have insurance
- "Only bad drivers need SR-22s": Lapses in coverage or single serious mistakes can trigger requirements
- "I can't get SR-22 if I don't own a car": Non-owner SR-22 policies exist for this situation
- "SR-22 requirements are permanent": Most states require 3-5 years; completion removes requirement
Next Steps#
Contact your state DMV to understand your specific SR-22 requirements and filing period. Gather documentation about your violation, license status, and vehicle information. Compare quotes from multiple high-risk insurers.
Call 1-800-INSURANCE (1-800-467-8726) to connect with agents experienced in SR-22 filings and high-risk coverage.