If you find yourself on the other side of a good driving record, you may need to assure your state that you'll be safe and responsible behind the wheel before your license will be renewed or reinstated.
What is an SR-22?
An SR-22 is a special form that your auto insurance company sends to your state's motor vehicle department. It certifies that you meet the state's minimum requirements for liability coverage, the SR in the name is an abbreviation of "safe and responsible."
You may also hear the SR-22 referred to as a:
- SR-22 Bond
- SR-22 Certificate
- Financial Responsibility Filing
- Statement or Certificate of Financial Responsibility
Sometimes you'll even hear it called "SR-22 insurance," but that isn't quite right. The SR-22 isn't a type of car insurance. It's just a form filed with the state that's connected with your auto policy.
Why would I need an SR-22?
An SR-22 assures the state that a driver has sufficient insurance coverage. Not all drivers are required to file an SR-22. Usually, this form is necessary because the state has determined a driver to be high risk. Reasons include:
- DUI or DWI conviction
- Driving without a license
- Driving without insurance
- Serious moving violations like reckless driving
- Multiple at-fault accidents
- Excessive traffic violations
- Repeat offenses in a short time frame
- Not paying court-ordered child support
- Restricted or hardship license
- Minor driver
In any of these cases, you may be required to provide an SR-22 before you can have your driving privileges reinstated or be issued a new license.
How do I know if I need an SR-22?
Your state, a judge or the court system will notify you if you're required to file an SR-22. If you're not sure, contact your state's driver's license authority Opens in a New Window. See note 1
How do I get an SR-22?
Filing an SR-22 is simple. As long as your auto policy meets requirements, all you have to do is call your insurance company and let them handle it.
But what if you don't have auto insurance or your insurer doesn't offer SR-22 filing? If that's the case, you'll need to buy a new policy. When shopping around, let potential insurers know you need an SR-22, so you can get the right coverage.
What information is required for an SR-22?
When you contact your insurance company for an SR-22, have the following information handy:
- Driver's date of birth
- Driver's Social Security number
- Driver's license number and state
- License suspension date
- Expiration date or relief date, also referred to as the date the SR-22 is no longer required
- Reason for SR-22 and any applicable conviction information
This information is necessary whether you're requesting the SR- 22 for yourself or another driver on your policy.
What if I don't have a car?
If you don't own a car, you'll need to obtain a nonowner auto insurance policy. These policies cover you whenever you drive, even if you don't own the vehicle. Once you meet the coverage requirements, you can get an SR-22.
If you live in the same household as someone who owns a car, you'll need to be listed as a driver on their auto insurance policy.
What if I need an SR-22 in a different state?
Sometimes, a driving infraction happens when you're visiting another state. When it does, your insurance company will simply file the SR-22 with that state, even if you don't live there.
If you move out of state, things can get a bit trickier as SR-22 requirements vary around the country. You may need to file a new SR-22 when you become a new resident or simply maintain your filing in the original state. There may also be additional fees or other requirements in your new state. The best approach is to contact the Department of Motor Vehicles in both states before you move.
What is the difference between SR-22 and FR-44?
An FR-44 is another type of financial responsibility filing used in Florida and Virginia. While it's similar to the SR-22, the FR-44 comes with much higher auto coverage requirements:
- Virginia - Double the state's minimum coverage requirement
- Florida - $100,000 for bodily injury per person, $300,000 for bodily injury per accident, and $50,000 for property damage
How much does an SR-22 cost?
Your insurance company will typically charge a one-time fee of $15 to $25 when filing an SR-22 with your state. You may have to pay the fee upfront, or your insurer may add a surcharge to your insurance premium.
Will an SR-22 affect my insurance rate?
Your insurance rates will probably go up after filing an SR-22, but don't blame the form. It's because of the driving infraction behind it.
The exact rate increase will depend on the seriousness of the violation, your driving record, vehicle, ZIP code, insurance history and other factors. If you didn't previously meet the minimum requirements, you may also need to purchase more coverage.
How long am I required to file an SR-22?
Most states require drivers to file an SR-22 for three years, but it can range from one to five years. If you commit another serious violation during that time, the filing time may be extended. Some states will also make the filing requirement permanent after multiple infractions.
How do I get my SR-22 removed?
When your filing period ends, ask your insurer to remove the SR-22 from your policy.
It's important to note that your insurance company will notify the state if your auto policy lapses or is canceled. This can result in license suspension, serious fines and other penalties.
The good news is that your rates may decrease once the SR-22 is removed and the violation falls off your driving record.
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