After a driver’s license suspension, you must get auto insurance and file an SR-22. An SR-22 isn’t insurance — it’s a certificate of financial responsibility required for some drivers by their state or court order. The SR-22 certificate or form, which is filed with your state, proves that your auto insurance policy meets the minimum liability coverage required by state law.
“Thirty-eight states and Washington, D.C., currently require an SR-22 certificate for high-risk drivers. The exceptions are Delaware, Kentucky, Minnesota, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Oklahoma and Pennsylvania,” says Mark Friedlander, director of corporate communications for the Insurance Information Institute, based in St. Johns, Florida. “Two states – Florida and Virginia – require an FR-44 filing for a serious infraction like a DUI or reckless driving.”
CarInsurance.com Insights
- You are considered a high-risk driver, so you can expect to pay the insurer an SR-22 filing fee and high car insurance premiums.
- Shop around for SR-22 car insurance from at least five companies.
- SR-22 laws vary by state, so check with your insurance company and DMV on your state-specific laws.
What is an SR-22 and why might you need one?
An SR-22 isn’t insurance — it’s a form your insurer files with your state to prove you have the minimum required liability coverage. It’s often required after serious driving violations, such as a DUI or driving without insurance. If you’re considered a high-risk driver, the state may require you to maintain an SR-22 for a set period to keep or reinstate your driving privileges.
Who needs an SR-22?
If you’ve received a DUI or other serious driving violation, you’ll receive a court order or notice from your Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) that you need an SR-22. If you’re categorized as a high-risk driver because of DUIs or severe driving violations, your state might require you to obtain a certificate of financial responsibility, an SR-22 or FR-44.
Can you get SR-22 insurance without a valid license?
Yes, in many cases, you can get an SR-22 even if your license is suspended or invalid. Car insurance companies filing an SR-22 are aware that the state typically requires this certificate of financial responsibility before a license can be reinstated.
Here’s how it works:
- The insurer issues a policy that includes an SR-22 filing.
- They file the SR-22 with your state’s DMV.
- You pay any required reinstatement fees to the DMV.
- Once approved, your license may be reinstated or converted to a restricted license, depending on state rules.
Important: Not all insurers offer SR-22 filings, especially if you don’t have a valid license.
Check out our detailed guide on SR-22 insurance
How to file an SR-22 if your license is suspended
If your license is suspended and you need to file an SR-22, here are the typical steps:
- Contact insurers: Not all companies will write policies for drivers with suspended licenses. Find one that offers SR-22 filings.
- Purchase a policy: You’ll need at least your state’s minimum liability coverage.
- Pay the SR-22 filing fee: Usually $15–$50.
- Insurer files the SR-22: The company submits the form to your DMV on your behalf.
- Reinstate your license: Pay any DMV reinstatement fees. Some states may grant a restricted or hardship license while you maintain the SR-22.
How to shop for SR-22 car insurance after a license suspension
The best advice when finding insurance after a license suspension is to shop around. Auto insurance companies rate risk differently, and this can result in dramatic differences in premium quotes.
The days of cheap car insurance are over, at least for a while. Expect your car insurance rates to increase dramatically after a moving violation requiring an SR-22.
Contact five different insurers for quotes and compare apples to apples regarding coverage levels and deductibles. If you purchase a new policy, don’t forget to cancel your old SR-22 policy after your new policy goes into effect.
Expert tipAfter a license reinstatement, check with your car insurance company to ensure they have received the information showing your license is now valid. Otherwise, your policy and SR-22 may get canceled, resulting in your license being suspended again.
Tell your insurance company about the SR-22
It never pays to mislead an insurer regarding your driving record. It will discover what you are trying to hide when they pull your driving record and write you off as dishonest.
Let your car insurance company know immediately that you will need an SR-22 since it must be filed with your state. Many states have moved to all electronic systems when filing an SR-22, which can speed up the process.
Widen your insurance company search when you have an SR-22
Consider insurance companies that may not be as well-known as major nationwide insurers. Second-tier insurers tend to work with drivers with imperfect driving records, many of which are owned by large national insurance companies.
In addition to major carriers, you should consider smaller car insurance companies specializing in high-risk or non-standard coverage, such as:
- Dairyland
- Direct
- The General
- Infinity
- Safe Auto
Ask your insurer to file the SR-22
Most insurers charge a small fee to file an SR-22. The fee varies by insurer, but $25 is typical. Once you have purchased the policy, your car insurance company should file the SR-22 with the state.
Get your driver’s license reinstated by the DMV
Once you have proof of insurance and your insurer has filed the SR-22, it is time to head to the DMV. While it varies by state, you must show up in person to get your license back in most cases. Bring proof of your policy and the SR-22.
Always pay your auto insurance policy premiums on time
If you want to keep your license, pay your premium on time. Suppose your car insurance policy is canceled due to non-payment or another issue during the required SR-22 period (typically three years). In that case, your car insurance company will file an SR-26 that shows the cancellation.
Then, the DMV will be notified you are no longer insured, and they will re-suspend your license. If this happens, finding car insurance companies to insure you will be more difficult.
Shop your auto insurance coverage at the one-year mark after you are required to carry an SR-22 and every year afterward to ensure you get the best rate. Your rates should improve each year.
Check out our guide: What to do if you need an SR-22 but don’t own a car?
Understand SR-22 requirements and consequences
SR-22 requirements can differ by state, but a three-year period is typical. If your license is suspended, never drive illegally — doing so can lead to additional fines, extended suspensions, or even jail time.
If you cancel your auto insurance before the required SR-22 period ends, your insurer is legally required to notify the DMV immediately. This can trigger a suspension or revocation of your driver’s license and may even force you to start the entire SR-22 filing period over again.
When your SR-22 requirement ends, be sure to notify your insurance company that you no longer need the filing on your policy.
It’s also essential to understand the specific rules for your situation. For example, confirm whether your SR-22 period starts on the date of your offense, your license suspension, reinstatement, or another key milestone. Knowing these details can help you avoid costly mistakes and keep your driving privileges on track.
How long must I carry an SR-22 certificate?
It will vary depending on the state you live in and the offense, but in most cases, you will be required to carry an SR-22 certificate for three to five years. Here are a few common timeframes, but again, they vary by state:
- First DUI: Three years is common
- Reckless driving: Can end up being five years or longer
- Additional tickets or accidents: Will extend the SR-22 in most states
Your local DMV should be able to let you know your SR-22 timeframe. Failure to carry the SR-22 for the required time can incur additional penalties and fees.
Which states do not require an SR-22?Delaware, Kentucky, Minnesota, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Oklahoma and Pennsylvania do not require an SR-22. Florida and Virginia require an FR44.
What if I have a driver’s license but not a car?
You cannot purchase car insurance without a valid driver’s license. But if you don’t have a vehicle yet and must file an SR-22, you can purchase a non-owner SR-22 insurance policy, Friedlander says.
“This type of policy is offered by most national and regional insurers. When you buy the policy, inform the insurer that you will need an SR-22 and they will file the form on your behalf with the state’s Department of Motor Vehicles,” he says.
How much does it cost to file an SR-22?
The cost will vary depending on where you live, but in most cases, it is a small filing fee ranging from $15 to $25. The fee is paid to the state via your insurance company.
Will I be able to drive after filing an SR-22 if my license is suspended?
No. An SR-22 is simply a certificate of financial responsibility that shows you are carrying the required amount of car insurance after your license has been suspended due to a serious driving infraction. Filing one doesn’t reinstate your license.
How soon can I reinstate my license after meeting the SR-22 requirements?
It depends on the state you live in as well as your offense. In many cases, you may be able to get your license reinstated as soon as you get an SR-22 in place.
However, this is not a guarantee; in some states or with particular infractions, you may need to complete other steps before the state will reinstate your license. These can include a waiting period for DUIs (in Colorado, it’s 60 days if you refuse a breathalyzer test), completing a safe driving course or paying all of the fines and fees associated with your infraction.
Contact your DMV website about the timeframe for getting your license reinstated.
Tips to lower SR-22 insurance costs
While SR-22 insurance is more expensive, there are ways to save:
- Compare multiple insurers: Rates vary widely between companies.
- Maintain continuous coverage: Avoid gaps that could trigger cancellation or new SR-22 filings.
- Improve your record: Avoid tickets and accidents. Rates often drop after 3 years.
- Consider a higher deductible: Can lower monthly payments.
- Ask about discounts: Some insurers still offer multi-policy or safe-driver discounts even with an SR-22.
Detailed checklist for license reinstatement
Reinstating your driver’s license after an SR-22 requirement involves several steps, as this process is typically required for high-risk drivers who have committed serious driving offenses, such as DUIs, reckless driving or driving without insurance.
Here’s a detailed checklist for how to navigate the process:
- Maintain compliance post-reinstatement: Continue carrying SR-22 insurance for the mandated period and avoid violations or lapses in coverage, as these can result in reinstatement of the SR-22 requirement or additional penalties.
- Understand the SR-22 requirement: An SR-22 is not insurance but a certificate filed by your insurance company to prove that you meet your state’s minimum liability coverage requirements. States typically require SR-22 filings for three to five years, depending on the offense and local laws. You cannot cancel your SR-22 filing until the state confirms you no longer need it.
- Fulfill your SR-22 insurance obligations: Ensure continuous coverage throughout the SR-22 period to avoid penalties or extended requirements. Confirm with your insurer that the SR-22 has been filed with your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles.
- Complete any state-mandated requirements: Depending on the nature of your offense, you may need to do the following: Complete a DUI education program or traffic school; pay outstanding fines or fees associated with your driving violation; or serve a suspension or revocation period before reinstatement is possible.
- Pay reinstatement fees: Every state requires payment of a license reinstatement fee, which can range from $50 to $500 or more depending on the offense. You can usually pay these fees online, by mail or in person at your local DMV office.
- Submit required documentation: Provide proof of SR-22 filing, which your insurance company will usually send directly to the DMV. In some cases, you may need to present additional documentation, such as proof of completion for DUI programs or evidence of cleared fines.
- Check your driving record: Before attempting to reinstate your license, request a copy of your driving record from your state’s DMV to ensure all requirements are marked as completed.
- Reapply for your driver’s license: If your license was revoked, you may need to reapply, which could involve passing written, vision or road tests again. Bring the necessary documents, including your SR-22, proof of insurance and identification.
- Wait for confirmation: Once you’ve fulfilled all obligations, the DMV will process your reinstatement. You may receive a temporary license until your official one is mailed. Keep a copy of your SR-22 with you while driving, as some states may require proof of compliance during traffic stops.
By following these steps carefully, you can successfully reinstate your license after an SR-22 requirement. The key is staying organized, maintaining continuous compliance, and fulfilling all state-specific obligations.
How does an SR-22 requirement influence future car insurance rates?
An SR-22 requirement significantly influences your future car insurance rates by labeling you as a high-risk driver. Insurance companies view drivers requiring an SR-22 as more likely to file claims or be involved in accidents due to the offenses that typically lead to the requirement, such as DUIs, reckless driving or driving without insurance.
Here’s how it impacts your rates:
- Extended high-risk period: The SR-22 filing period (typically 3-5 years) locks you into higher rates during this time. Continuous coverage is essential—any lapse in insurance can restart the SR-22 period and lead to additional rate increases.
- Impact of driving behavior: Future rates can be influenced by your driving behavior during the SR-22 period. If you maintain a clean driving record and avoid further violations, your rates may gradually decrease once the SR-22 requirement is lifted.
- State-specific factors: The amount your rates increase depends on your state’s regulations and how your insurance company evaluates SR-22 filings. Some states may have stricter requirements, contributing to higher premiums.
Once the SR-22 requirement is fulfilled, you may see a reduction in premiums, but the offense that triggered it may still influence your rates for several years.
People also ask
I’m required to get an SR-22. Do I need insurance to get an SR-22, or can I get an SR-22 without insurance?
Yes, you do need insurance to get an SR-22. The SR-22 is a certificate of responsibility that your insurance company files with the state proving you are carrying the required amount of insurance to legally drive.
If you aren’t carrying insurance, you cannot get an SR-22 and you will not be legal to drive or, in many situations, get your license reinstated.
I have not had a valid driver’s license in 20 years. Do I still need an SR-22 to get my license reinstated?
If the state still suspends your license and requires an SR-22 to reinstate it, then yes, you will need to carry an SR-22. However, it is also possible that the infraction has dropped off your driving record after 20 years.
It will vary by state and your original infraction. The best advice is to contact your state’s DMV to check on the status of your license suspension and what you need to do to get a new license.
How does an SR-22 requirement influence my car insurance rate in the future?
In most cases, you will pay a higher rate than normal for a few years after having to carry an SR-22, but your rate should drop significantly when you are no longer required to carry an SR-22.
While rates can vary depending on your infraction and the state you live in, if you keep your driving record clean, they should drop back to normal within a couple of years.
FAQ
Can you drive with an SR-22 on a suspended license?
While an SR-22 is one component of getting legal out on the road and is often necessary to get your license back, you must have a valid (not suspended) license to drive legally in all states.
Insurance companies will often allow you to obtain an SR-22 if you get your driver’s license reinstated within 30 days of your insurance policy’s inception date or if you acquire a hardship driver’s license within that same time frame.
Driving with a suspended license involves severe penalties, including fines and jail time. Instead, get your license reinstated, get insurance and an SR-22 filed by your agent.
Can I get a motorcycle license with a suspended driver’s license?
No. A motorcycle license is an endorsement on your standard-issue driver’s license. It is not a separate license; if it’s suspended, so is your motorcycle license.
Do I need an SR-22 to reinstate my license?
It varies by state and the exact nature of your driving infraction. When you are convicted of an offense, such as DUI, reckless driving or driving without insurance, your license will likely be suspended, and you will need to file an SR-22 to get it reinstated.
In most cases, the judgment against you or your local DMV will notify you of the requirements you must meet to reinstate your license after your suspension period has ended.
Once my driver’s license has been reinstated, do I have to get an SR-22?
It varies depending on the state you live in. Some states require an SR-22 when a license is reinstated, while others do not. In most states, you must have an SR-22 attached to your insurance policy for a set amount of time, depending on the infraction.
Check with your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles for its SR-22 requirements.
Do I need an SR-22 if I received a DWI/DUI?
While it will vary by state, the answer is yes in most cases. If you were carrying full coverage auto insurance at the time of the DUI, you might not be required to obtain an SR-22 – it will depend on what your local DMV requires or the judge who deals with your case.
Chances are, your state will see if you were covered for specific limits of bodily injury liability and property damage liability at the time of your DWI.
Do I need an SR-22 for an essential-needs (hardship) license?
An essential-needs license is typically called a hardship or right-to-work license.
While the requirements to get a hardship license vary from state to state, the odds are that you will need an SR-22 before a hardship license is approved.
A hardship license allows you to drive only for specific reasons, such as commuting to work. A hardship license can be obtained in many states if you cannot regain your full license privileges. Still, if you are caught driving to an excluded location, the hardship license will be revoked and your suspension may be extended.
The bottom line
The good news is that you can still get an SR-22 without a valid driver’s license if your carrier allows it and gives you time to have your license reinstated. But remember: An SR-22 is not an insurance policy. It’s a document. If you’ve been ordered to get an SR-22, which proves that you meet your state’s minimum auto liability insurance requirements, take it seriously.
Follow all the rules and steps involved, and work hard to demonstrate that you can be responsible behind the wheel when considered a high-risk driver.
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