SR-22 insurance in Washington 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.
Your insurance company submits the SR-22 form to the Washington 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 Washington and explains how it impacts your annual premium rates should you require SR-22.
Who needs an SR-22 in Washington?
In Washington, 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 SR-22 requirement in Washington typically lasts 3 years, although it can vary depending on the violation. You must maintain at least the minimum car insurance coverage required by Washington laws during this period.
Learn more about how to find out if you still need an SR-22
How do I get an SR-22 in Washington?
To obtain SR-22 insurance in Washington, 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 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 25/50/10.
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.
Having an SR-22 may increase your car insurance costs because it signifies a riskier driver. To minimize the impact, compare quotes from different insurers and focus on safe driving habits to get lower rates in the future.
Discover your options for getting SR-22 insurance without a valid license
How much is SR-22 insurance in Washington?
The cost of car insurance in Washington is $1,765 per year for full coverage with an SR-22, which is $328 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 $3,054 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 Washington?
For drivers in Washington convicted of a DUI, the average monthly insurance cost for full coverage car insurance with an SR-22 is $255 per month.
Not all insurance companies provide car insurance for high-risk drivers, so you may need to look into various insurers to find the one that does. But be prepared to pay higher premium costs due to driving infractions on your record.
However, by driving responsibly and avoiding speeding tickets, DUIs and other infractions, you can gradually improve your driving record and secure lower insurance rates in the future.
Cheapest SR-22 insurance companies in Washington
Geico provides the most affordable SR-22 car insurance for drivers in Washington, with an average annual premium of $1,196. Nationwide and Allstate also offer competitive SR-22 insurance rates in Washington, according to CarInsurance.com data.
After a DUI or other traffic violation in Washington, getting SR-22 insurance is a requirement. While the SR-22 form doesn’t impact insurance costs, the violations that necessitate it typically result in higher premiums. However, high-risk drivers can still find affordable auto insurance rates in Washington.
| Company | Full coverage rates without SR-22 | Full coverage rates after filling SR-22 |
|---|
Find out which providers offer the cheapest SR-22 car insurance
How long do I need SR-22 insurance in Washington?
You will need an SR-22 in Washington for a period of 3 years. This document proves to the Washington DMV that you are maintaining state-mandated 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.
How do I check my SR-22 status online in Washington?
You can easily check your SR22 status by visiting the official website of the Washington DMV and using their online services. Alternatively, you can contact the Washington DMV by phone to inquire about your SR-22 status, and they can provide you with the required information.
What happens if I cancel my SR-22 insurance?
Canceling your SR-22 insurance before the mandated period ends can lead to several serious consequences
- Driver’s license suspension: Your insurance company is required to inform the state if your SR-22 is canceled. This will likely lead to your driver’s license being suspended.
- Fines and penalties: Non-compliance with SR-22 requirements may incur additional fines or penalties, adding to the financial consequences of policy cancellation.
- extended probationary period: If your SR-22 was a condition of probation for a driving offense, canceling it could reset the probation clock.
- Insurance premium increase: A lapse in coverage and violations can lead to significant spikes in insurance premiums.
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 Washington
If you want your SR-22 filing removed in Washington, the easiest way is to wait out the mandatory filing period. In Washington, 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 Washington?
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 Washington drivers
If you find yourself in a situation where you need an SR-22 in Washington but don’t own a car, there is a solution. Non-owner SR-22 insurance can help you reinstate your Washington driver’s license and meet the 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 Washington for a company that can provide the coverage you need.
Frequently asked questions: SR-22 insurance in Washington
Do I need an SR-1P or SR-22 in Washington?
Both the SR-22 and SR-1P are forms your insurance company submits to the Washington DMV, ensuring you meet the mandated liability coverage. For motorcycle riders, mopeds, and scooter users, the SR-1P is the relevant form. If you’ve been caught riding your two-wheeler without insurance or have had your license suspended, you’ll require an SR-1P.
What happens to your SR-22 insurance in Washington if you move?
An SR-22 requirement stays even when you move to a new state. Find a new insurance company licensed in your current state to file a new SR-22. They must submit the form with both the Washington DMV and your new state’s DMV to transfer the requirement. Maintain continuous coverage until the new SR-22 is in effect.
SR-22 requirements can vary from state to state, so it’s essential to consult with your new insurance company and the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) in your new state to determine the necessary steps.
Does Geico offer SR-22 in Washington?
Geico provides SR-22 in Washington, ensuring you meet the state’s insurance requirements and offer adequate coverage required by the state.
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 Washington. 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.
Get advice from an experienced insurance professional. Our experts will help you navigate your insurance questions with clarity and confidence.
Browse all FAQs