We are uncertain as to what year the first SR-22 filing of financial responsibility was written but do know the SR-22 form has been around for quite some time in many states. We remember issuing them in Florida in the 1980's. At first it likely was known as just proof of financial responsibility and required after someone was found uninsured and in an accident but then it became known as the SR-22 certificate of financial responsibility.

From our brief research it appears the term SR-22 first started appearing in the 1950s. Though the concept may have been around earlier the actual SR22 form appears to be described in the 1950s. For instance North Carolina Motor Vehicle Safety and Financial Responsibility Act of 1953 mentions as part of it that those persons whose driver's licenses have been suspended by reason of violations of motor vehicle statutes, failure to pay and discharge judgments for damages resulting from ownership or operation of motor vehicles, or failure to prove financial responsibility where damages have been occasioned by the ownership or operation of motor vehicles must prove financial responsibility before such licenses may be restored.

The Act of 1953 then goes on to say that one method of proving and maintaining financial responsibility is to obtain automobile liability insurance as defined by, and in compliance with, General Statute 20-279.21. Upon delivery of a certificate [Form SR-22] by insurer to the Commissioner, showing that there is insurance coverage in accordance with the Act; driver's license may be issued to the applicant.

State laws differ regarding the SR-22. The reasons it is needed differ as does the time it has to be maintained. Some states do not even require it in any way. Delaware, Kentucky, Minnesota, New Mexico, Oklahoma and Pennsylvania do not require SR-22s. New York and North Carolina also do not require SR-22 filings, and most companies do not offer out-of-state SR-22 filings for policies in these states while they will for the first list of states.

As you are likely aware SR-22 is a document required as proof of financial responsibility. It can be ordered by the court or by the DMV under state law for persons convicted of certain traffic violations. Typically the SR22 is needed when you are going to reinstate your license after a suspension.

The definition of an SR-22 from the Car Insurance Learning Center is:

A SR-22 is a form which must be filed by the insurance company stating that auto liability insurance is in effect for a particular individual. This form can be required when insurance is provided to an individual who was in an accident or was convicted of a traffic offense and was unable to show financial responsibility. Each state has different variations of this form and requirements.

Each state has their own reasons or circumstances that require a motorist to obtain and maintain the SR-22 and started the practice of requiring a SR22 by writing it not state law at some point.

To find out when your state first started requiring a SR-22 contact your local Department of Motor Vehicle or like state agency.

Click on this link to obtain an SR-22 quote from CarInsurance.com by entering your zip code and some basic information if you are mandated to maintain this certificate of financial responsibility.