SR-22 insurance in Wisconsin is not an insurance policy. Rather, it’s a certificate proving financial responsibility that some drivers must submit to the state. It’s necessary for individuals who are found guilty of specific driving offenses, including DUI, driving without insurance and reckless driving.
Your insurance company submits the SR-22 form to the Wisconsin Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) on your behalf. It proves that you carry the minimum liability insurance required by the state. Make sure to keep your insurance active for the duration mandated by the court or DMV.
This guide outlines what SR-22 insurance covers in Wisconsin and explains how it impacts your annual premium rates should you require SR-22.
Who needs an SR-22 in Wisconsin?
In Wisconsin, if your driver’s license gets suspended or revoked because of certain violations, you might need SR-22. It is a form that proves you have car insurance.
Here are some reasons why a driver might need an SR-22:
- DUI or DWI (driving under the influence or driving while intoxicated) conviction
- Reckless driving
- Driving without insurance
- Multiple traffic offenses within a short period
- If you’re involved in an accident and don’t have car insurance, the DMV may suspend your license and require you to file an SR-22
- Nonpayment of fines or penalties if you’re sued after an accident
In Wisconsin, an SR-22 is generally needed for 3 years, but this duration can differ based on the specific violation. Throughout this period, it’s crucial to maintain at least the minimum car insurance required by Wisconsin law.
Learn more about how to find out if you still need an SR-22
How do I get an SR-22 in Wisconsin?
To obtain SR-22 insurance in Wisconsin, you must first get a car insurance policy. Then, the insurance company will submit an SR-22 form to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) on your behalf.
Getting the right car insurance:
- Contact your current insurance provider: Many insurers can handle SR-22 filings, but remember that your rates may change. It’s important to confirm whether they offer an SR-22 and if it will affect your premiums.
- Shop for quotes: It’s important to compare quotes from different insurers that offer SR-22 coverage. Disclose your need for an SR-22 so you get accurate estimates.
- Meet state minimum liability limits: Make sure that your coverage meets Wisconsin’s required minimums, which is 25/50/10.
Filing the SR-22:
- Inform your insurance company about your SR-22 requirement. They will take care of the paperwork and file the form with the DMV for you.
- Pay the fees. There will be a filing fee for the SR-22 from your insurer and the increased premiums due to your high-risk status.
- Maintain continuous coverage. Make sure there is no lapse in the insurance coverage to avoid license suspension by the DMV.
Remember, getting SR-22 insurance may result in higher premiums due to your driving record. Compare car insurance quotes every six months and ask about discounts to get the cheapest car insurance possible.
Discover your options for getting SR-22 insurance without a valid license
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How much is SR-22 insurance in Wisconsin?
The cost of car insurance in Wisconsin is $1,967 per year for full coverage with an SR-22, which is $126 lower than the national average of $2,093 annually. However, having a DUI on your driving record can significantly increase your premium to an average of $3,370 per year for full coverage.
In addition to the increased premium, there’s usually a small fee associated with filing the SR-22 form. To get your license reinstated, you must acquire car insurance and submit the SR-22 form.
How much is SR-22 insurance per month in Wisconsin?
For drivers in Wisconsin convicted of a DUI, the average monthly insurance cost for full coverage car insurance with an SR-22 is $281 per month.
Only some insurance companies provide car insurance for high-risk drivers, so you might need to look around to find one that does. When you do find an insurer, be prepared for higher premiums because of driving violations on your record.
However, if you drive carefully and avoid speeding, DUIs and other violations, you can improve your driving record, which could lead to lower insurance premiums in the future.
Affordable SR-22 insurance companies by state
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For drivers in Wisconsin looking for cheap SR-22 insurance, Geico offers the lowest rates at $1,217 annually. While not the least expensive, Nationwide and Progressive offer affordable rates in Wisconsin, based on CarInsurance.com data.
In Wisconsin, after a traffic infraction such as a DUI, getting SR-22 insurance is mandatory. While the SR-22 form does not impact insurance costs, the offenses that necessitate it typically result in increased premiums. However, there are still insurers in Wisconsin that offer affordable coverage for high-risk drivers.
| Company | Full coverage rates without SR-22 | Full coverage rates after filling SR-22 |
|---|---|---|
| Geico | 1,195 | 1,217 |
| Nationwide | 1,287 | 1,296 |
| Progressive | 2,128 | 2,537 |
| State Farm | 2,378 | 2,747 |
| Allstate | 2,515 | 2,877 |
| Farmers | 2,139 | 3,053 |
| USAA* | 984 | 1,075 |
Find out which providers offer the cheapest SR-22 car insurance
How long do I need SR-22 insurance in Wisconsin?
In Wisconsin, you are required to have SR-22 coverage for a period of 3 years. This confirms to the Wisconsin DMV that you have the state-mandated minimum insurance coverage.
SR-22 insurance varies by state and the reason you need it. Usually, it’s required for three years but in some cases, it might be longer. For example, if someone has repeat violations, the requirement could extend out to five years, says Dr. James Brau, Joel C. Peterson professor of finance at Brigham Young University.
What happens if I cancel my car insurance?
If you cancel your car insurance in Wisconsin before the required period mandated by the state, it can lead to serious consequences.
- Driver’s license suspension: Your Wisconsin insurance provider is legally required to inform the state if your insurance is canceled. This likely triggers a driver’s license suspension, as you must still maintain SR-22 coverage for the mandated period.
- Fines and penalties: In addition to suspension, some states may impose additional fines or penalties for failing to comply with the SR-22 requirement.
- Extended probationary period: If your Wisconsin SR-22 requirement was part of a probation period for a driving offense, cancellation might restart the clock.
- Increased insurance costs: Future attempts to purchase insurance might be costly due to the lapse in coverage and driving record violations.
It’s crucial to maintain continuous coverage for the required period. Any gaps or cancellations can result in penalties and suspension of your driver’s license.
How to get an SR-22 removed in Wisconsin
To get rid of your SR-22, you must wait until the required time period is up. In Wisconsin, this period is typically 3 years from when you first filed the SR-22.
Brau explains that you should maintain continuous insurance coverage without any lapses. If you cancel your policy or let it expire, the SR-22 will no longer be valid. Wait out the required period. During this time, drive responsibly and maintain your insurance coverage.
“Check with your state’s DMV and confirm the exact duration and any additional requirements for removal. Some states may require you to submit a formal request or provide proof of good driving behavior,” he says.
“Once the required period has passed, ask your insurer to file an SR-26 form with the DMV. This form notifies them that you no longer need an SR-22. After your insurer submits the SR-26, check with the DMV to ensure the SR-22 is officially removed from your record.”
How does an SR-22 affect car insurance rates in Wisconsin?
The requirement of an SR-22 certificate can increase your car insurance premiums significantly. Most insurance companies consider drivers with SR-22 high risk, resulting in premium hikes.
Your specific increase in rates will vary based on various factors, including your driving record and the reason for the SR-22.
Car insurance can be more expensive after an SR-22, so it’s a good idea to get quotes from different companies to find the best deal. However, maintaining a clean driving record and adhering to SR-22 obligations can lead to decreased insurance rates.
Select your age, gender and type of violation to see average annual SR-22 insurance rates by company.
Note: These rates are for a full coverage policy with limits of 100/300/100 with a $500 deductible.
Non-owner SR-22 insurance for Wisconsin drivers
If you find yourself in a situation where you need an SR-22 in Wisconsin but don’t own a car, there is a solution. Non-owner SR-22 insurance can help you reinstate your Wisconsin driver’s license and meet the requirements.
Non-owner car insurance offers liability coverage for individuals who don’t own a vehicle. An added benefit is that some insurers can file the SR-22 form with the DMV for you, which may be required in certain situations.
Frequently asked questions: SR-22 insurance in Wisconsin
How do I check my SR-22 status online in Wisconsin?
There are two ways to check the status of your SR-22. Visit the official website of your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Most states allow you to check your SR-22 status through their online services. You can also contact your state’s DMV directly via phone.
Do I need an SR-1P or SR-22 in Wisconsin?
Both the SR-22 and SR-1P are forms submitted by your insurance provider to the Wisconsin DMV to confirm that you meet the minimum liability coverage requirements. The SR-1P is for two-wheelers like motorcycles, mopeds, and scooters. If you’ve been cited for riding without insurance or have had your license suspended while operating a motorcycle, you’ll need to file SR-1P.
What happens to your SR-22 insurance in Wisconsin if you move?
Your SR-22 insurance obligation in Wisconsin remains even after you move. To comply with legal requirements, find a new insurance provider licensed in your new state. They’ll handle the paperwork to transfer the SR-22 obligation from Wisconsin to your new location. Keep your coverage active until you get the new SR-22.
The SR-22 requirements in your new state may differ from those in Wisconsin. It’s important to check with your new insurance provider and the local DMV to learn the state’s requirements.
Does Geico offer SR-22 in Wisconsin?
Yes, Geico provides SR-22 insurance in Wisconsin. As a major car insurance provider, Geico can file an SR-22 form with the state on your behalf and offer the required insurance coverage to comply with state laws.
Resources & Methodology
Sources
SR-22 Adviser. “SR-22 Requirements by State.” Accessed November 2024.
Methodology
CarInsurance.com commissioned Quadrant Information Services to get SR-22 car insurance rates in Wisconsin. The rates are based on the sample profile of a 40-year-old driver with a clean driving record and good insurance score. We have compared 50,73,544 from 138 national and regional car insurance companies across 548 cities and 1,468 ZIP codes to evaluate the premiums.
Note: USAA is only available to military community members and their families.
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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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Guide to car insurance (with rates) in cities of Wisconsin