SR-22 Insurance: The Complete Guide
After a DUI, you\'ll likely need SR-22 insurance to reinstate your license. It\'s not as complicated or expensive as you think—but timing matters.
3-5 Years
Typical Duration
Varies by state
$15-25
Filing Fee
One-time cost
50-300%
Premium Increase
Above standard rates
SR-22 requirements vary by state. Check your state below for specific details.
What Exactly Is SR-22?
SR-22 is a certificate of financial responsibility that your insurance company files with the state to prove you carry the minimum required coverage. It\'s typically required after DUI convictions, driving without insurance, or multiple traffic violations.
SR-22 Insurance Guides
Everything you need to know about getting and maintaining SR-22 coverage
SR-22 Requirements by State
How long you\'ll need SR-22 coverage depends on your state and offense
| State | 1st Offense | 2nd Offense | Min Coverage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Texas | 2 years | 2 years | 30/60/25 |
| Arizona | 3 years | 3 years | 25/50/15 |
| Georgia | 3 years | 3 years | 25/50/25 |
| Colorado | 3 years | 3 years | 25/50/15 |
| Ohio | 3 years | 3 years | 25/50/25 |
| Tennessee | 3 years | 3 years | 25/50/15 |
| North Carolina | 3 years | 3 years | 30/60/25 |
| South Carolina | 3 years | 3 years | 25/50/25 |
Min Coverage shown as Bodily Injury per person / Bodily Injury per accident / Property Damage (in thousands)
Common SR-22 Myths
Misconceptions that cost people time and money
"SR-22 is a type of insurance"
SR-22 is a certificate filed by your insurer proving you have coverage. It's not a separate policy—it's attached to your existing auto insurance.
"I can't get SR-22 without a car"
Non-owner SR-22 policies exist specifically for people who don't own vehicles but need to maintain the filing to reinstate their license.
"Once I get SR-22, my rates stay high forever"
After the SR-22 period ends (typically 3-5 years), you can shop for standard insurance again. Rates drop significantly when you're no longer high-risk.
When Things Go Wrong
Guides for common SR-22 problems
State-Specific SR-22 Information
Requirements, filing processes, and approved insurers vary by state
Understanding SR-22 Insurance
SR-22 insurance exists because states want proof that high-risk drivers carry adequate liability coverage. After certain violations—primarily DUI/DWI convictions—your state requires your insurance company to notify them if your policy lapses or is canceled. This "certificate of financial responsibility" is what SR-22 actually is.
The Cost Reality
The SR-22 filing itself is cheap—typically $15-25 one-time. What hurts is the insurance premium increase. Because you\'re now classified as "high-risk," insurers charge 50-300% more than standard rates. The good news: this isn\'t permanent. After your SR-22 period ends and you maintain a clean record, rates drop substantially.
Non-Owner SR-22
Don\'t own a car? You still need SR-22 to reinstate your license. Non-owner SR-22 policies provide liability coverage when you drive vehicles you don\'t own—rentals, borrowed cars, or company vehicles. These policies are typically cheaper than standard SR-22 because there\'s no collision or comprehensive coverage.
What Triggers an SR-22 Requirement
While DUI is the most common trigger, SR-22 may also be required for: driving without insurance, multiple at-fault accidents, accumulating too many license points, or being involved in a serious accident while uninsured. The specific triggers vary by state, but the requirement serves the same purpose—proving financial responsibility.
Sources & Official Resources
Information on this page is sourced from state DMV publications and insurance regulations. Always verify current requirements with your state DMV or a licensed insurance agent.
- Insurance Information Institute - What is SR-22?
- National Association of Insurance Commissioners - Consumer Resources
Last updated: January 8, 2026
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