What Is SR22 Insurance and Why Is It Required?

SR22 insurance is a type of high-risk auto insurance that is required by some states for drivers who have been convicted of major violations. SR22 stands for "State Requirement Form 22". Your insurance company must file this form with the state as proof that you are carrying the minimum required liability insurance.

You'll need to carry SR22 coverage if you have convictions for offenses like:

• DUI/DWI

• Reckless driving

• Driving without insurance

• Excessive speeding (typically 20mph or more over the limit)

• At-fault accidents while uninsured

• License suspension or revocation

• Accumulation of traffic violation points

SR22 requirements are mandated on a state-by-state basis. Depending on where you live, you may be required to file an SR22 after just one violation or if you accumulate a certain number of points on your driving record.

SR22 insurance laws exist to ensure that high-risk drivers obtain and maintain adequate auto insurance. It helps protect other motorists in case an at-fault accident occurs.

Having SR22 coverage shows financial responsibility and demonstrates that you are committed to following the rules of the road.

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How Much SR22 Insurance Coverage Is Required?

The exact minimum SR22 coverage amounts vary by state. As an example, in a standard SR22 policy, if you caused an accident that injured two people, your insurer might pay up to $25,000 in medical bills for each person. If you damaged someone's car or property, up to $25,000 in repairs or replacement would be covered.

Some states require additional types of coverage for an SR22, like uninsured motorist protection or MedPay. A few states mandate higher liability limits per person and per accident.

You should always check the specific requirements for your state. Carrying more than the minimums can provide greater protection and lower rates once the SR22 is no longer needed.

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How Long Will I Need to Maintain SR22 Insurance?

In most states, SR22 requirements last for three years from the conviction date. However, SR22 timeframes range from one to five years, depending on your violation history and location.

For example, some SR22 requirements are:

• Up to three years for DUI

• Four years if your license is suspended due to negligence

You may need to file SR22 proof for only one year for certain minor violations or up to five years for repeat offenses.

If you receive another serious driving conviction while on an SR22, you'll typically have to restart the required time period all over again.

Some states have laws that allow early release from SR22 requirements for drivers who maintain a clean record during their high-risk insurance period.

Our quote process covers all states we work with and includes SR22 insurance for Arizona, SR22 insurance for Nevada, SR22 insurance for Texas, SR22 insurance for California, and other states.

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Why Would I Need Non-Owner SR22 Insurance?

If your license is suspended, but you still need to file an SR22, you'll need non-owner SR22 coverage. This satisfies the insurance filing requirement even if you don't own a vehicle.

Without non-owner SR22, you won't be able to legally drive at all until you can purchase a traditional auto policy. This option is also very affordable for those who have been convicted of major violations but currently don't own a car.

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What Does Non-Owner SR22 Insurance Cover?

Non-owner SR22 meets state minimum liability limits. It covers:

• Bodily injury and medical payments for other drivers

• Property damage to the other vehicle

• Damage to any structures or property hit

It does not cover damage to the vehicle you are driving or any injuries to yourself. You are essentially only covered for harm caused to others when driving a non-owned auto. Additional insurance would need to be purchased for damage or collision coverage.

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How Much More Does SR22 Insurance Cost?

Factors affecting your exact SR22 insurance rates include:

• Specific traffic convictions

• Number of violations

• Time elapsed since the offense

• State and coverage minimum requirements

• Driving history before conviction

• Type and age of the vehicle

• Demographics like age, location, credit score

To find the lowest SR22 rates, it is crucial to compare quotes from multiple insurance companies. Discounts and defensive driving courses may also help offset some of the increased costs.

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Can I Cancel My SR22 Insurance?

You cannot legally cancel your SR22 insurance before the mandated timeframe ends. Doing so will lead to serious consequences, including:

• License and registration suspension

• Hundreds or even thousands in state fines

• Need to restart the SR22 requirement timeframe

• Possible jail time in some states

If you need to switch insurers, the new company must file the SR22 before the old policy can be canceled. A lapse in coverage will result in the above penalties.

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What is FR44 Insurance?

Like SR22, FR44 is a certificate of financial responsibility for high-risk drivers. But FR44 is specifically required after a conviction for DUI or DWI.

FR44 also demands significantly higher minimum insurance coverage limits compared to SR22 and must be carried for a longer duration than SR22, typically twice as long. For example, a three-year SR22 requirement could equate to six years of FR44 filings.

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Light at the End of the Tunnel

It can feel daunting to deal with the DMV and shop for SR22 insurance when your license has already been suspended. But staying positive and following the proper steps will get your SR22 filed and your license back quickly.

The important thing is learning from your mistakes and becoming a safer driver. Use it as an opportunity for a fresh start. With SR22 insurance and responsible driving, your suspension will be just a blip in your rear-view mirror.

Please contact our helpful team if you have any questions about SR22 coverage. We'll be happy to help you get back on the road.

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Use our free quote comparison to check rates and learn more about SR22 insurance coverage.

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