An SR-22 is not insurance — it is a certificate your insurer files with the DMV proving you carry the minimum required liability coverage. Here is everything you need to know to get covered quickly and affordably.
What Is an SR-22 and Why Do You Need One
An SR-22 is a Certificate of Financial Responsibility that your insurance company files electronically with your state DMV. It proves you are maintaining the minimum required auto liability insurance. Courts or the DMV typically require an SR-22 after a DUI or DWI conviction, multiple at-fault accidents in a short period, being caught driving without insurance, having your license suspended or revoked, or accumulating too many points on your driving record. The SR-22 itself costs $25–$50 to file — but the required insurance policy costs significantly more than a standard policy.
How Much Does SR-22 Insurance Cost
The SR-22 filing fee is minor at $25–$50. The real cost is the insurance policy. Drivers needing an SR-22 are classified as high-risk, dramatically increasing premiums. A driver previously paying $1,500 per year might pay $2,800–$4,500 per year after a DUI requiring an SR-22. The increase varies by reason for the SR-22, your state, your insurer, and your overall history. Shopping quotes is essential — the difference between the cheapest and most expensive SR-22 insurer can exceed $1,500 per year.
Best Companies for SR-22 Insurance
Progressive is consistently the best choice for SR-22 insurance — they specialize in high-risk coverage, file SR-22s in all states, and typically offer the most competitive post-DUI rates. Dairyland Insurance specializes in non-standard auto insurance and SR-22 filings. The General is another high-risk option. State Farm and Geico do file SR-22s but may non-renew your policy after a DUI more readily than Progressive or Dairyland.
How Long Does SR-22 Requirement Last
Most states require SR-22 maintenance for 3 years from the date of the conviction or license reinstatement. During the entire period you must maintain continuous insurance coverage — a lapse of even one day can reset your SR-22 period in many states and result in automatic license re-suspension. Always pay your insurance premium before the due date and set up automatic payments during an SR-22 period.
Non-Owner SR-22 Insurance for Drivers Without a Car
If you do not own a vehicle but need an SR-22, a non-owner SR-22 policy provides liability coverage when you drive borrowed or rented vehicles and satisfies the SR-22 requirement. Non-owner SR-22 policies typically cost $300–$900 per year compared to $2,800–$4,500 for a standard SR-22 policy with a vehicle. Progressive, Dairyland, and The General all offer non-owner SR-22 policies.