SR22 insurance is a special type of auto insurance that is often required by the state for drivers who have committed certain driving violations. While it’s commonly misunderstood as a unique form of insurance, an SR22 is actually a certificate of financial responsibility that proves you carry the minimum required auto insurance coverage. This certificate is typically mandated by the court or the state after a serious driving infraction, such as DUI (Driving Under the Influence), reckless driving, or a history of traffic violations.
In this article, we’ll explore what SR22 insurance is, when and why it’s required, how it affects your car insurance, and how to obtain it.
What is SR22 Insurance?
SR22 insurance is not an actual type of insurance policy, but rather a form filed by your insurance provider with the state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or the equivalent agency. This document certifies that you carry the minimum amount of auto liability insurance required by state law.
There are different types of SR22 certificates, depending on your situation:
- SR22 – Operator’s Certificate: This is for drivers who are required to show proof of insurance but do not own a vehicle.
- SR22 – Owner’s Certificate: This is for drivers who own a car and need to show proof of insurance for their vehicle.
- SR22 – Non-Owner’s Certificate: This is for drivers who do not own a vehicle but still need to show proof of insurance while driving a car owned by someone else (for example, when borrowing a car).
When is SR22 Insurance Required?
SR22 insurance is typically required after a serious driving violation. Here are some common scenarios where SR22 insurance may be mandated:
- Driving Under the Influence (DUI/DWI):
If you’re convicted of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, the court or state may require you to file an SR22 to prove that you carry the minimum required auto insurance coverage. - Multiple Traffic Violations or Accidents:
If you have a history of multiple traffic violations or at-fault accidents, you may be required to file an SR22 to reinstate your driver’s license. - License Suspension or Revocation:
If your driver’s license has been suspended or revoked due to certain offenses (such as driving without insurance), an SR22 may be required for you to regain your driving privileges. - Reckless or Careless Driving:
A conviction for reckless driving or other serious violations may also trigger the need for SR22 insurance. - Driving Without Insurance:
If you’re caught driving without the minimum required insurance coverage, the state may require an SR22 certificate to ensure you’re properly insured going forward.
How Long Do You Need SR22 Insurance?
The duration for which SR22 insurance is required can vary depending on the state and the offense you’ve committed. Typically, SR22 insurance is required for a period of 1 to 3 years, but this can be longer in some cases. If you fail to maintain your SR22 coverage or let your insurance lapse during this period, your insurance provider will notify the state, and you could face additional penalties or a longer period of required coverage.
How Does SR22 Insurance Affect Your Car Insurance?
- Higher Premiums:
When you’re required to file an SR22, it often results in higher car insurance premiums. Drivers with serious driving violations are considered high-risk, which means insurance providers will charge more for coverage. How much your premium increases depends on factors like your driving history, the state you’re in, and the severity of the violation. - State-Required Coverage:
The SR22 ensures that you meet the minimum insurance requirements of your state, which typically include liability coverage for bodily injury and property damage. In some cases, the state may require additional coverage, such as uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage or personal injury protection (PIP). - Length of Time on Record:
The SR22 is not a permanent mark on your record, but it remains on your record for the duration of the required period. Once the requirement period is over and you have kept your insurance in good standing, you may be able to return to a standard insurance policy.
How to Obtain SR22 Insurance
- Contact Your Insurance Provider:
If you already have car insurance, reach out to your insurance company to ask about filing an SR22. They will submit the necessary forms to the state for you. If you don’t currently have auto insurance, you’ll need to obtain coverage through an insurer who offers SR22 filing services. - Shop Around for the Best Rates:
It’s important to compare different insurance providers, as the cost of SR22 insurance can vary widely. Some companies may specialize in high-risk drivers and offer more competitive rates for those who need SR22 insurance. - Pay the Filing Fee:
Most insurance companies charge a fee for filing the SR22 certificate, which is typically separate from your premium. This fee can range from $15 to $50, depending on the insurer and the state. - Maintain Coverage:
Once your SR22 insurance is in place, ensure that you maintain coverage for the entire period required. Any lapse in coverage could result in penalties or an extension of the SR22 filing period.
What Happens If You Don’t File an SR22?
If you fail to file the required SR22 after being ordered to do so, several things may happen:
- License Suspension or Revocation:
If the state does not receive confirmation that you have SR22 insurance, your driver’s license may be suspended or revoked again. - Increased Penalties:
Failure to maintain SR22 coverage can result in additional fines, longer periods of required SR22 filing, or even the permanent loss of your driver’s license. - Ineligibility for Insurance:
If you let your SR22 insurance lapse, it can be difficult to obtain new insurance coverage. Many insurers won’t provide coverage to high-risk drivers without an SR22 certificate in place.
Conclusion
SR22 insurance is a crucial component for drivers who have faced serious traffic violations and are required to prove they have the minimum necessary auto insurance coverage. While SR22 insurance can lead to higher premiums, it’s an essential step toward regaining driving privileges and moving past a driving infraction. It’s important to maintain your SR22 coverage for the required period and to comply with all state regulations to avoid further penalties and complications.
By understanding the basics of SR22 insurance, you can navigate the process with confidence and take the necessary steps to protect both your driving rights and your financial well-being.
FAQs
1. Is SR22 insurance the same as regular car insurance?
No, SR22 is not a type of insurance but a certificate filed by your insurer with the state to prove you have the required car insurance coverage.
2. How long do I need to carry SR22 insurance?
Typically, SR22 insurance is required for 1 to 3 years, but the duration can vary depending on the offense and state laws.
3. Can I get SR22 insurance if I don’t own a car?
Yes, if you don’t own a car, you can still file an SR22 as a non-owner’s certificate, which covers you when you drive someone else’s car.
4. How much does SR22 insurance cost?
The cost of SR22 insurance depends on your driving history and the insurer, but it generally results in higher premiums for high-risk drivers.
5. What happens if I let my SR22 insurance lapse?
If your SR22 insurance lapses, your insurance company will notify the state, and your license may be suspended again. You could also face additional penalties and have to file SR22 for a longer period.