How Long Do You Need SR-22 Insurance?
Most states require SR-22 for 2-3 years, but the exact duration depends on your state, offense type, and whether you maintain continuous coverage.
The Clock Starts When You File (Usually)
In most states, your SR-22 period begins when the certificate is filed with the state or when your license is reinstated—not from the date of your offense.
SR-22 Duration by State
How long you'll need to maintain SR-22 coverage
| State | 1st DUI | 2nd DUI | 3rd+ DUI |
|---|---|---|---|
| Texas | 2 years | 2 years | 2 years |
| Arizona | 3 years | 3 years | 3 years |
| Georgia | 3 years | 3 years | 3 years |
| Colorado | 3 years | 3 years | Indefinite possible |
| Ohio | 1 year* | 3 years** | 5 years** |
| Tennessee | Matches suspension | Matches suspension | Matches suspension |
| North Carolina | 3 years | 3 years | 3 years |
| South Carolina | 3 years | 3 years | 3 years |
Durations shown are typical minimums. Court-ordered periods may be longer. Always verify with your state DMV.
Ohio Reduced SR-22 Period to 1 Year (2025)
House Bill 29, effective April 9, 2025, significantly reduced Ohio's SR-22 requirements:
- •New suspensions (April 2025+): Only 1 year of SR-22 required for non-compliance and 12-point suspensions
- •Pre-April 2025 suspensions: Still 3 years (1st offense) or 5 years (2nd+ within 5 years)
- •Criminal court orders: Judges may still order longer periods for felony OVI cases
When Does the SR-22 Clock Start?
Understanding when your requirement period actually begins
From Filing Date
Most states start the clock when your SR-22 is filed with the DMV. This is why filing quickly after your suspension is important.
From Reinstatement
Some states (like Colorado) don't start counting until you actually reinstate your license, not just when SR-22 is filed.
From Conviction
Texas and some others count from your conviction date. The period runs regardless of when you file.
What Can Extend Your SR-22 Period
Events that can reset or lengthen your requirement
Coverage Lapse
Clock may restart entirely
If your SR-22 policy lapses, many states restart your requirement period from the new filing date.
New DUI/DWI Conviction
New period begins
A new DUI conviction typically starts a fresh SR-22 requirement period, often at the maximum duration.
Other Moving Violations
May extend period
Serious traffic violations during your SR-22 period can extend the requirement in some states.
Court-Ordered Extension
Judge's discretion
Judges can order SR-22 for longer than the administrative minimum as part of probation conditions.
License Reinstatement Delays
Varies by state
In some states, the SR-22 period doesn't start until you actually reinstate your license.
A Coverage Lapse Can Restart Your Clock
If your SR-22 policy lapses—even for one day—serious consequences follow:
- •Your insurer files an SR-26 immediately notifying the state
- •Your license is suspended again
- •Many states restart your entire SR-22 period from the new filing
- •Additional reinstatement fees apply
Set up automatic payments to avoid accidentally resetting your clock.
Can You Get Off SR-22 Early?
Options for ending your requirement before the standard period
Possibly
- Court petition: Some judges may modify orders if you demonstrate compliance
- Expungement: If your conviction is expunged, the SR-22 requirement may end
- Move to another state: Different states have different rules (doesn't always work)
Usually Not
- Good behavior: Completing the period without violations rarely shortens it
- Financial hardship: SR-22 requirements are typically non-negotiable
- Simply asking DMV: Administrative requirements usually can't be waived
In most cases, the only way to "get off" SR-22 early is to complete the required period without interruption. Focus on maintaining coverage to avoid extending your requirement.
How to Know When You're Done
Steps to properly end your SR-22 requirement
Track Your Date
Know exactly when your SR-22 period ends. Mark it on your calendar.
Verify with DMV
Contact your state DMV before your end date to confirm no extensions or issues.
Shop for New Insurance
Once confirmed, get quotes for standard insurance without the SR-22 endorsement.
Switch Policies
Cancel the SR-22 policy only after your new standard policy is active.
Related Guides
Sources
Duration data verified against state DMV publications and insurance regulations for 2025-2026. Ohio HB 29 effective date confirmed via legislative records.
Last updated: January 8, 2026
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