SR22 State Requirements

An SR-22 is a form that your car insurance company files with the state to prove that you have the minimum liability insurance required by law. An SR-22 is not a type of insurance, but a certificate of financial responsibility. You may need to file an SR-22 if you have been convicted of a DUI, caused an accident while driving without insurance, or had your license suspended or revoked for other reasons.

The cost of filing an SR-22 is usually around $25, but the main expense is the higher car insurance rates that you will pay as a high-risk driver. According to Forbes, the average cost of SR-22 insurance with a DUI is $3,270 a year, which is $1,523 more than the average cost without a DUI. The cost may vary depending on your state, insurance company and driving record.

The requirements for an SR-22 also vary by state, but generally you will have to maintain it for at least three years. If you cancel, terminate or lapse your SR-22 policy, your insurance company will notify the state and your license and registration may be suspended again. To reinstate your driving privileges, you will have to submit a new SR-22 and pay any fees or fines that apply.

Some states use a different form called an FR-44, which is similar to an SR-22 but requires higher levels of liability coverage. For example, Florida and Virginia require FR-44 filers to have $100,000/$300,000/$50,000 limits for bodily injury and property damage liability.

If you need an SR-22 or an FR-44, you should contact your local insurance agent or provider to obtain one. You may also want to shop around for different quotes and discounts to find the best deal for your situation. Having an SR-22 or an FR-44 does not mean you cannot find affordable car insurance, but it does mean you will have to be more careful and responsible with your driving habits.