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After a DUI in South Carolina, you'll need SR-22 insurance to reinstate your license. Learn what SR-22 is, how much it costs, and how to get the best rates.
3 years
Duration
State requirement
$15-25
Filing Fee
One-time
50-300%
Rate Increase
Above standard rates
SR-22 is a certificate of financial responsibility, not a type of insurance. Your insurer files it with the South Carolina DMV to prove you carry required coverage.
SR-22 is NOT a type of insurance—it's a certificate (form) that your insurance company files with the South Carolina DMV to prove you carry the required minimum liability coverage. Think of it as a "guarantee" that you're insured.
How long you need SR-22 depends on your offense
| Offense Type | SR-22 Required | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1st DUI | 3 years | 3 years | State requirement |
| 2nd DUI | 3 years | 3 years | May be longer in some states |
| 3rd+ Offense | 3-5 years | 3-5 years | Extended requirement |
| Driving Without Insurance | 3 years | 3 years | Non-DUI trigger |
| At-Fault Accident (Uninsured) | 3 years | 3 years | May require higher limits |
* Durations are typical. Your court order may specify different requirements.
$25K
Bodily Injury
per Person
$50K
Bodily Injury
per Accident
$25K
Property
Damage
Written as 25/50/25 coverage
These insurers offer SR-22 filing. Compare quotes to find the best rate.
| Provider | Locations | Coverage | Get Quote |
|---|---|---|---|
| Progressive Major insurer with SR-22 experience | - | South Carolina approved | Compare |
| GEICO Online quotes available | - | South Carolina approved | Compare |
| State Farm Local agents available | - | South Carolina approved | Call directly |
| The General Specializes in high-risk | - | South Carolina approved | Compare |
| Dairyland Non-standard market leader | - | South Carolina approved | Call directly |
Links marked with "Compare" may be affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no additional cost to you.
Follow these steps to get your SR-22 filed and license reinstated
Confirm you need SR-22 by checking your court order or DMV notice. South Carolina requires SR-22 for DUI convictions, driving without insurance, and certain other violations.
Call your current insurer first—if they offer SR-22, staying with them is often cheapest. If they drop you or dont offer SR-22, get quotes from high-risk specialists.
Choose a policy that meets South Carolina's minimum liability requirements: 25/50/25. Your insurer will file the SR-22 form with the DMV.
Your insurer electronically files the SR-22 with the DMV. Allow 24-72 hours for processing. Verify receipt by contacting the DMV or checking your driving record.
Do NOT let your SR-22 lapse. If your policy cancels for any reason, your insurer files an SR-26 form notifying South Carolina DMV. Your license will be suspended immediately.
After 3 years, your SR-22 requirement ends. Contact your insurer to stop the SR-22 filing. You can then shop for standard insurance rates again.
Letting your SR-22 coverage lapse has serious consequences—avoid at all costs
Your license will be suspended immediately upon SR-26 notification. This can happen within 24 hours of the lapse.
Some states reset your SR-22 clock after a lapse. You may need to start the 3 years period over.
Youll need to pay license reinstatement fees ($50-250) on top of any back premiums.
A lapse on your record makes you even higher risk, resulting in increased premiums when you re-obtain coverage.
If caught driving with a suspended license, you face additional criminal charges, fines, and potentially jail time.
Set up autopay, calendar reminders, and treat your SR-22 payment as seriously as rent. A single missed payment can undo years of progress and cost you thousands in additional fees and increased rates.
Don't own a car? You can still get your license back with non-owner SR-22 insurance. This policy provides liability coverage when you drive vehicles you don't own (rentals, borrowed cars, etc.).
Information sourced from South Carolina DMV, state insurance regulations, and industry resources.
Last updated: January 2026
Compare quotes from insurers who specialize in high-risk coverage. Many can file your SR-22 same-day.
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