Typically in Wisconsin you will need to obtain and maintain a SR22 for 3 years however the period for the SR-22 can differ so if you are required to file one with the state than contact the WI Department of Transportation (DOT) to find out for certain about your particular situation.

The WI DOT notes that for the SR-22 proof of insurance, it must be filed for three years from the reinstatement eligibility date, or for three years from the court entry date of a damage judgment that was effective before September 1, 2000.This state agency goes on to say that if at any time during the three year filing period, a person wishes to stop filing insurance, and discontinue driving in Wisconsin, they can avoid paying the reinstatement fee in the future by surrendering their driver license to the WisDOT while the insurance is still in force.

In Wisconsin proof of financial responsibility is certifying that you have Liability insurance in the amounts of at least $25,000 and $50,000 for personal injury or death (Bodily Injury Liability insurance) and $10,000 for property damage (Property Damage Liability insurance).This coverage is often referred to as 25/50/10.

Proof of insurance is filed by obtaining an SR-22 certificate issued by an insurance company licensed to do business in Wisconsin. In some cases, substitutions, such as a bond from an insurance company or a cash deposit of $60,000 posted with the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) will be accepted.

Proof of insurance is necessary to obtain an occupational license or to reinstate a driver license after operating privileges or vehicle registration has been revoked. Also the SR22 is needed to reinstate a driver's license after suspension if the suspension is a damage judgment or a suspension under the uninsured motorists/safety responsibility law. This certificate of financial responsibility can also be filed for drivers under the age of 18 in lieu of having a sponsor.

Most insurance companies that file proof of financial responsibility will mail the certificate directly to WisDOT. Some companies will give the SR-22 to the customer and some companies will electronically file the information to WisDOT's computer system. The electronically filed information is usually entered automatically on the customer's driver record within one or two working days.

If you need a SR-22 filed for you or if you are shopping around for auto insurance quotes because your SR22 filing period is over you can click here for instant car insurance quotes.