SR-22 insurance in Ohio isn’t a type of insurance but rather a certificate of financial responsibility that some drivers must file. It’s often required for individuals who have been convicted of certain driving-related offenses, such as DUI, driving without insurance, reckless driving or multiple traffic offenses.
The SR-22 form is filed by your insurance company with the Ohio Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to prove that you have the state-required minimum liability coverage. This form verifies that you have the necessary insurance coverage in place. If your driving privileges were suspended or revoked and you must carry an SR-22, you must maintain continuous coverage for the period specified by the court or DMV.
This guide outlines what SR-22 insurance covers in Ohio and explains how it impacts your annual premium rates should you require SR-22.
Who needs an SR-22 in Ohio?
In Ohio, individuals whose driving licenses were suspended or revoked due to certain violations may be required to obtain an SR-22.
Below are the violations that can trigger this requirement:
- 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
The requirement to carry an SR-22 in Ohio usually lasts for a period of 3 years, which may vary based on the severity of the offense. During this period, you must carry at least the minimum car insurance required by Ohio law.
Learn more about how to find out if you still need an SR-22
How do I get an SR-22 in Ohio?
Getting insurance in Ohio involves purchasing a car insurance policy and having the insurance company file an SR-22 form with the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV)on your behalf.
Getting the right auto insurance:
- Contact your current insurance company: Many insurance companies file SR-22 forms, but keep in mind that your rates will go up.
- Comparison shopping: It’s a good idea to compare rates from other insurance companies. Tell them you need an SR-22 so they give you accurate quotes.
- Meet state minimum car insurance requirements: You’ll need to purchase minimum liability coverage with limits of 25/50/25.
Filing the SR-22:
- Inform your insurer about your SR-22 requirement. They’ll handle the paperwork and submit the form to the DMV.
- Pay any associated fees. Expect an SR-22 filing fee from your insurance company on top of the increased premium for your high-risk status.
- Maintain continuous insurance. A lapse in coverage may result in the DMV suspending your license again.
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
How much is SR-22 insurance in Ohio?
In Ohio, full coverage car insurance cost with an SR-22 is $1,670 per year $423 lower than the national average cost in the U.S., which is $2,093 a year. But if you have a DUI, your yearly premium can increase up to $2,971 in Ohio.
Besides the higher premium, many insurance companies charge a small fee to submit the SR-22 form. If your license is suspended, your only option for getting it reinstated is to buy car insurance and file the SR-22 form.
How much is SR-22 insurance per month in Ohio?
Drivers in Ohio who have a DUI on their record can expect to pay $248 per month for a full coverage policy, which includes an SR-22.
Not all insurance companies offer car insurance for high-risk drivers, so you might need to shop around to secure coverage. When you do find an insurer, expect to pay higher premiums.
However, by practicing responsible driving and steering clear of speeding, DUI and other violations, you can improve your driving record and possibly reduce your insurance premiums over time.
Check out SR-22 insurance rates in nearby states
Cheapest SR-22 insurance companies in Ohio
Auto-Owners provides the most affordable SR-22 car insurance for drivers in Ohio, with an average annual premium of $1,264. Erie Insurance and Geico also offer competitive SR-22 insurance rates in Ohio, according to CarInsurance.com data.
Following a traffic violation like a DUI in Ohio, getting SR-22 insurance becomes mandatory. Although the SR-22 doesn’t directly affect insurance rates, most violations requiring it often lead to premium hikes.
| Company | Full coverage rates without SR-22 | Full coverage rates after filling SR-22 |
|---|---|---|
| Allstate | $1,942 | $2,128 |
| Auto-Owners | $1,109 | $1,264 |
| Erie Insurance | $1,132 | $1,283 |
| Farmers | $1,794 | $2,527 |
| Geico | $1,373 | $1,396 |
| Progressive | $1,626 | $2,007 |
| USAA* | $994 | $1,018 |
Find out which providers offer the cheapest SR-22 car insurance
How long do I need SR-22 insurance in Ohio?
You will need SR-22 in Ohio for a duration of 3 years It assures the Ohio DMV that you’re consistently maintaining at least the minimum required coverage levels mandated by the state.
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.
How do I check my SR-22 status online in Ohio?
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.
What happens if I cancel my car insurance?
If you cancel your car insurance in Ohio before the required period mandated by the state, it can lead to serious consequences.
- Driver’s license suspension: Your Ohio 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 Ohio 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 Ohio
If you want your SR-22 filing removed in Ohio, the easiest way is to wait out the mandatory filing period. In Ohio, this period typically lasts for 3 years from the date of filing.
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 Ohio?
Requiring an SR-22 certificate can substantially increase your car insurance premiums. Insurance providers typically categorize drivers with SR-22s as high-risk, which often translates to higher rates.
The specific amount by which your premiums will rise can vary depending on factors like your driving history and the reason for the SR-22 filing.
Don’t settle for the first offer. Compare quotes from multiple insurers to get the best deal on car insurance with an SR-22. If you stay violation-free and comply with the SR-22 requirements, your rates could go down over time.
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 Ohio drivers
If you’re in a situation where you require an SR-22 in Ohio but don’t have a vehicle, non-owner SR-22 insurance can help you reinstate your Ohio driver’s license and fulfill the state requirements.
Non-owner car insurance provides liability coverage when you don’t own a vehicle. This type of policy allows the insurance company to issue the SR-22 form to the DMV on your behalf. Not all insurance companies offer non-owner car insurance or file SR-22 forms, so shop around in Ohio for a company that can provide the coverage you need.
Frequently asked questions: SR-22 insurance in Ohio
Do I need an SR-1P or SR-22 in Ohio?
Both the SR-22 and SR-1P are forms submitted by your insurance provider to the Ohio 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 Ohio if you move?
Your SR-22 insurance obligation in Ohio 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 Ohio 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 Ohio. 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 Ohio?
Yes, Geico provides SR-22 insurance in Ohio. 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 March 2025.
Methodology
CarInsurance.com commissioned Quadrant Information Services to get SR-22 car insurance rates in Ohio. 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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