Drivers required to get an SR-22 are typically considered high-risk drivers by insurers.The SR-22 form by itself doesn’t raise your insurance rates. Rather, the conviction on your driving record triggers the requirement for an SR-22 that causes your premiums to soar.
- The average cost of car insurance with an SR-22 is $2,093 per year or $174 per month.
- An SR-22 is a form that many states require after certain driving-related convictions to guarantee that you have the required car insurance coverage.
- Driving-related convictions like a DUI that require an SR-22 can result in a 120% insurance rate increase.
What is an SR-22?
An SR-22 form is a car insurance company’s guarantee that a driver carries the insurance coverage required by their state. However, while some people think the SR-22 is an auto insurance policy, that’s not the case — the SR-22 is the form itself.
“An SR-22 is not itself an insurance policy, but rather exists as a convenient way to communicate insurance info between insurance companies and the states,” says Anthony Martin, founder and CEO of Choice Mutual, an insurance agency based in Reno, Nevada.
The SR-22 form, usually filed electronically, provides the state with proof that you have the required insurance coverage in effect. The state-mandated coverage may be the same as your state minimum liability requirements or have higher limits. Requirements differ by state.
Who needs SR-22 insurance?
“Drivers typically need SR-22 insurance after major violations like DUIs or reckless driving,” says Ryan McEachron, CEO of ISU Insurance Services in Victorville, California.
If you are required to get SR-22 insurance, you should receive a written request for this paperwork from your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles.
Common reasons people are required to file an SR-22
Typically, drivers only need to file an SR-22 after committing a particularly egregious driving violation. Below are some everyday situations when people are required to file an SR-22:
- Within a few months, you have received several moving violations, like speeding tickets.
- You are convicted of a DUI or DWI.
- You were caught driving without car insurance.
- You caused a serious car accident.
- You received a license suspension.
How much is SR-22 insurance?
The average cost for a 40-year-old driver with full coverage and an SR-22 with one DUI to insure a Honda Accord LX was $4,173 with an SR-22 and $1,897 without—a difference of $2,276, which is 120% higher than a standard auto insurance premium.
Bradley W. Lane, Ph. D., a transportation expert and associate professor at the University of Kansas, says the biggest issue for some is the cost associated with an SR-22.
“The extra cost burden is particularly troublesome for low-income people, who already live near a level of ‘transportation poverty’ since quite a bit of transportation expenses are constant across incomes,” Lane says.
He says the added cost of car insurance may force some to abandon driving for public transit, which can pose an additional burden.
“Commuting to work becomes a more time-consuming and more expensive chore, which puts further pressure on the time and monetary budgets of these people and makes it additionally difficult to advance out of a low-income living situation,” Lane says.
See the table below for car insurance rates in each state with and without an SR-22.
| State | Annual rate | Annual SR-22 rate | $ difference | % difference |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alaska | $1,676 | $1,798 | $122 | 7% |
| Alabama | $1,860 | $2,169 | $309 | 17% |
| Arkansas | $1,957 | $2,225 | $269 | 14% |
| Arizona | $1,812 | $2,151 | $338 | 19% |
| California | $2,416 | $2,447 | $31 | 1% |
| Colorado | $2,337 | $2,805 | $468 | 20% |
| Connecticut | $1,725 | $1,984 | $258 | 15% |
| Washington, D.C. | $2,157 | $2,369 | $212 | 10% |
| Delaware | $2,063 | $2,369 | $306 | 15% |
| Florida | $2,694 | $3,164 | $470 | 17% |
| Georgia | $1,970 | $2,289 | $320 | 16% |
| Hawaii | $1,517 | $1,759 | $243 | 16% |
| Iowa | $1,630 | $1,772 | $141 | 9% |
| Idaho | $1,428 | $1,695 | $267 | 19% |
| Illinois | $1,532 | $1,555 | $23 | 1% |
| Indiana | $1,515 | $1,764 | $249 | 16% |
| Kansas | $1,900 | $2,151 | $251 | 13% |
| Kentucky | $2,228 | $2,372 | $144 | 6% |
| Louisiana | $2,883 | $3,231 | $348 | 12% |
| Massachusetts | $1,726 | $2,006 | $280 | 16% |
| Maryland | $1,746 | $1,779 | $33 | 2% |
| Maine | $1,175 | $1,334 | $159 | 14% |
| Michigan | $2,352 | $2,371 | $19 | 1% |
| Minnesota | $1,911 | $2,063 | $152 | 8% |
| Missouri | $1,982 | $2,217 | $235 | 12% |
| Mississippi | $2,008 | $2,128 | $120 | 6% |
| Montana | $2,193 | $2,361 | $168 | 8% |
| North Carolina | $1,741 | $1,784 | $43 | 2% |
| North Dakota | $1,665 | $1,952 | $287 | 17% |
| Nebraska | $1,902 | $2,262 | $360 | 19% |
| New Hampshire | $1,265 | $1,498 | $233 | 18% |
| New Jersey | $1,902 | $1,998 | $96 | 5% |
| New Mexico | $2,049 | $2,254 | $205 | 10% |
| Nevada | $2,060 | $2,349 | $289 | 14% |
| New York | $1,870 | $1,900 | $30 | 2% |
| Ohio | $1,417 | $1,670 | $252 | 18% |
| Oklahoma | $2,138 | $2,352 | $214 | 10% |
| Oregon | $1,678 | $1,932 | $254 | 15% |
| Pennsylvania | $1,872 | $2,142 | $270 | 14% |
| Rhode Island | $2,061 | $2,298 | $237 | 11% |
| South Carolina | $2,009 | $2,194 | $184 | 9% |
| South Dakota | $2,280 | $2,436 | $156 | 7% |
| Tennessee | $1,677 | $1,958 | $281 | 17% |
| Texas | $2,043 | $2,237 | $194 | 9% |
| Utah | $1,825 | $2,190 | $365 | 20% |
| Virginia | $1,469 | $1,723 | $254 | 17% |
| Vermont | $1,319 | $1,501 | $182 | 14% |
| Washington | $1,608 | $1,765 | $157 | 10% |
| Wisconsin | $1,664 | $1,967 | $303 | 18% |
| West Virginia | $2,005 | $2,262 | $257 | 13% |
| Wyoming | $1,758 | $2,017 | $259 | 15% |
What is the average monthly cost of insurance with an SR-22?
The average monthly car insurance cost with an SR-22 is $174. But keep in mind that many factors impact your car insurance costs, which means that the amount you pay for coverage could be significantly different than the average.
How to get affordable SR-22 insurance quotes
Getting affordable SR-22 insurance quotes requires understanding the requirements and making strategic decisions about coverage. Here’s a step-by-step guide to finding budget-friendly SR-22 insurance:
- Understand your state’s SR-22 requirements: An SR-22 is not a type of insurance but a certificate proving you carry the minimum liability insurance required by your state. It’s often required after severe traffic violations, such as DUIs, driving without insurance or license suspensions.
- Compare multiple insurers: Since SR-22 insurance often involves high-risk drivers, rates vary widely between insurers. Use comparison websites or contact multiple providers to get quotes. Make sure you explain your SR-22 requirement to receive accurate rates.
- Consider a higher deductible: Increasing your comprehensive and collision coverage deductibles reduces monthly premiums, though you’ll pay more out-of-pocket if you file a claim. This is a practical way to keep costs down for SR-22 insurance.
- Ask about discounts: You may qualify for discounts even with an SR-22 requirement. Ask about safe driving, multi-policy (bundling auto with renters or homeowners insurance), low mileage or vehicle safety feature discounts.
- Opt for minimum liability coverage: While you may need more coverage based on your financial circumstances, choosing the minimum liability coverage required by your state can keep costs lower. Be aware, though, that this only covers third-party injuries or damages, not your own.
- Complete a defensive driving course: Some insurers offer discounts for completing a state-approved defensive driving course, which can demonstrate your commitment to safer driving. This can help offset the increased premium associated with an SR-22.
- Improve your credit score: In many states, insurers consider credit scores when setting rates. Taking steps to improve your credit over time can help you secure better rates for SR-22 insurance.
- Consider non-owner SR-22 insurance (if applicable): If you don’t own a car but still need an SR-22, non-owner SR-22 insurance can be more affordable. It provides liability coverage when you drive borrowed or rented vehicles.
- Choose a reliable SR-22 insurance provider: Some insurance companies specialize in high-risk policies and may offer more affordable SR-22 options. Research reviews and reputations to find a provider that offers reasonable rates and reliable customer service.
- Re-evaluate your coverage annually: SR-22 requirements typically last around three years. Shop around at each renewal to see if your rates improve as you demonstrate good driving behavior, as some insurers may offer discounts or reduced rates over time.
Following these steps can help you secure more affordable SR-22 insurance quotes, even with the high-risk status.
Real-world insight: Experience of shopping for car insurance with an SR-22 on Reddit
An Indiana driver whose license was suspended more than three years ago for driving without insurance explained their experience on Reddit:
“After that incident, I got SR-22 insurance … through Trexis since State Farm doesn’t offer SR-22, got my license reinstated, and I got married. Since that time, I’ve maintained a good driving record. I have zero points on my license now, and the BMV site is telling me that SR-22 is no longer needed. However, when we called our insurance agent (State Farm), he told us that even though the BMV doesn’t require an SR-22, State Farm won’t allow me to go on her insurance until five years after my license was reinstated.”
Commenters reminded the driver that a state’s SR-22 requirements and an insurance company’s underwriting guidelines aren’t related.
How much does an SR-22 filing increase car insurance premiums?
Car insurance rates increase by 10% after an SR-22 filing. But the exact increase you’ll face will vary based on the other details of your driving situation.
Beginner’s guide to SR-22 insurance terms
If your SR-22 requirement is new and you’re wondering how it works with car insurance, here are a few key terms to understand:
- Certificate of financial responsibility (CFR): Also known as an SR-22, this document verifies that a driver carries the minimum insurance coverage required by their state.
- Filing fee: A one-time fee (typically between $15 and $50) your insurer charges to submit the SR-22 form to the state DMV on your behalf.
- FR-44: Similar to an SR-22 but with higher required liability limits, used in certain states like Florida and Virginia, typically for more serious driving offenses.
- Reinstatement fee: A fee payable to the DMV to reinstate a suspended or revoked driver’s license after meeting all necessary requirements.
- Financial responsibility law: State regulations requiring drivers to demonstrate they can cover damages or injuries resulting from an accident. This is also referred to as state minimum car insurance.
- Filing period: The length of time you’re required to maintain SR-22 coverage, which usually spans one to five years, depending on state regulations and the offense.
Which companies have the cheapest SR-22 insurance?
Not all auto insurance companies file SR-22s, but many large carriers, including the companies included here, provide policies and file the forms with state or legal entities on your behalf.
See annual and monthly rates for car insurance with an SR-22 in the table below.
| Company | Average annual cost | Average monthly cost |
|---|---|---|
| Allstate | $2,725 | $227 |
| Farmers | $2,992 | $249 |
| Geico | $1,782 | $148 |
| Nationwide | $1,568 | $131 |
| Progressive | $2,216 | $185 |
| State Farm | $2,214 | $185 |
| Travelers | $1,613 | $134 |
| USAA* | $1,416 | $118 |
Note: USAA is only available to military community members and their families.
Will my insurance rates go down after I no longer need an SR-22?
Your rates will go down once the SR-22 is off your record, but your state will determine when you’ll pay higher rates.
“SR-22 forms do raise insurance premiums, often for 3-5 years,” McEachron says. “Once the SR-22 period ends, premiums will likely decrease but may remain higher than before the violations. The severity of the offense and driving record are factors.”
Different types of SR-22 formsThere are three main types of SR-22 certificates, and your insurance company can help you determine which one you need.
- Owner SR-22 certificate: Covers cars you own.
- Owner-operator SR-22 certificate: Covers any car you drive, regardless of the owner.
- Non-owner SR-22 certificate: Covers cars you drive that you don’t own.
How do I get an SR-22?
To obtain an SR-22, you must go through an auto insurance company that offers the filing (not all do) and buy a policy with the minimum limits that the state requires you to carry. Once the SR-22 is filed, you must maintain the related insurance coverage for the state-mandated period. The period varies, but most commonly, it’s for three years.
The form must be filed with the state as a certificate of financial responsibility to verify that you have the mandated insurance coverage and limits. Your car insurance company sends you a copy of the SR-22 to keep as proof.
However, most states have it stored electronically in their records so that law enforcement or the Department of Motor Vehicles can look it up if needed.
Discover how to determine if you still require an SR-22
What are the requirements for an SR-22?
There are currently only eight states that do not require an SR-22:
- Delaware: Requires an FR-19
- Kentucky
- Minnesota
- New Mexico
- New York
- North Carolina
- Oklahoma
- Pennsylvania
All other states require an SR-22 and some have additional requirements.
- Florida: Requires SR-22 and FR-44 insurance
- Maryland: Requires SR-22 and FR-19
- Virginia: Requires SR-22 and FR-44 insurance
To determine under what circumstances your specific state requires the SR-22, contact your DMV.
How long do I have to carry an SR-22?
In most states, you must carry the SR-22 for three years, but the period varies from one to five years. In some places, the period varies by offense.
The start date varies by state, and the DMV can tell you how long you need to carry the SR-22 and the starting date. The clock may start with the offense date, conviction date, suspension date, or the date of your driver’s license reinstatement.
Don’t cancel an SR-22 before your filing period is up. If you cancel before the filing period ends, your state may penalize you. If insurance associated with an SR-22 is removed or canceled, the insurer must file an SR-26 that informs the state of the cancellation.
The state can then take actions against you that typically include the loss of your driver’s license and/or vehicle registration.
Frequently asked questions: SR-22 insurance quotes
What will happen if I do not carry an SR-22?
If you do not carry the required insurance coverage with an SR-22, your insurance company must notify the DMV, which could suspend or revoke your license – and you may be required to pay fines or penalties.
What is the difference between an SR-22 and an FR-44?
The FR-44 also provides proof of financial responsibility but mandates that you carry higher liability limits. The FR-44 is used only in Florida and Virginia and is required instead when convicted of certain alcohol-related offenses.
Do I have to inform my insurance company about my SR-22 requirement?
Yes, you must tell your current insurance company about the need for the form so that it can file it for you. Even if you already have coverage that meets or exceeds state-mandated coverage, the state can still require you to file an SR-22, which allows the state to ensure you maintain car insurance.
How much insurance must I buy if I have an SR-22?
You need to purchase insurance coverage that the state mandates. This requirement varies by state. It may be your state’s minimum or higher liability coverage (especially if you need an FR-44 instead).
The car insurance coverage purchased that is associated with the SR-22 form is rated according to all the factors that normally go into rating a policy, regardless of the SR-22 form filing.
Is an SR-22 tied to my driver’s license?
Yes. Similar to how demerit points can be added to your driver’s license if you receive traffic violations, an SR-22 is also tied to your driver’s license. The DMV uses your driver’s license number to extend or revoke your driving privileges.
Learn how to get SR-22 car insurance without a valid license
What is the timeline for getting an SR-22?
The process to file an SR-22 can take up to 30 days. If you need one, be sure to start the process at least 30 days in advance of your need date.
How can I check the status of my SR-22?
Most of the time, the best option is to call the insurance company that filed the SR-22 on your behalf. In some states, however, you can call the Department of Motor Vehicles.
Finding the best SR-22 insurance quotes today
It is best to practice safe and responsible driving and avoid needing this insurance form. But if you end up in that situation, compare insurance quotes to see where you can get your cheapest rates.
Resources & Methodology
Sources
- American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators “SR22/26.” Accessed December 2024.
- Insurance Information Institute “How to save money on car insurance.” Accessed December 2024.
- Maryland Department of Motor Vehicle “Maryland Vehicle Insurance Certification” Accessed December 2024.
Methodology
CarInsurance.com commissioned Quadrant Information Services to pull rates from the Auto Problems Report for 40-year-old drivers with full coverage, limits of 100/300/100 and $500 deductibles. The hypothetical driver has a 12-mile commute and drives a Honda Accord LX 10,000 miles per year. The data come from 138 companies, 1,468 ZIP codes and 5,073,544 car insurance quotes.
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Laura Longero
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Laura Longero is an insurance expert and Executive Editor at CarInsurance.com, where she specializes in helping consumers navigate the complexities of the financial and insurance industries. She has 15 years of experience educating people about finance and car insurance. Prior to joining CarInsurance.com, she worked as a reporter and editor at the USA Today Network. Her expertise provides readers with practical guidance, helping them make informed choices about their financial and insurance needs.
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