SR-22 Insurance Lapsed? Here's What to Do
A lapse in SR-22 coverage triggers immediate license suspension and can restart your entire requirement period. Act quickly to minimize the damage.
Time is critical. If the lapse just happened, call your insurer NOW.
They may be able to backdate coverage before filing the SR-26 with the state.
What Happens When SR-22 Lapses
The consequences are serious and happen quickly
Immediate License Suspension
Within 24-48 hoursYour insurer files an SR-26 with the state, triggering automatic suspension of your driving privileges.
SR-22 Clock May Restart
Varies by stateMany states restart your entire SR-22 requirement period from the date of your new filing.
Additional Reinstatement Fees
Before license restoredYou'll need to pay state reinstatement fees again, typically $20-475 depending on state.
Higher Insurance Rates
OngoingA lapse on your record makes you even higher risk, potentially increasing your premiums.
Possible Criminal Charges
If caught drivingIf caught driving during the lapse, you could face driving with suspended license charges.
How to Fix an SR-22 Lapse
Follow these steps in order to get back on track
Stop Driving Immediately
UrgentYour license is suspended once the SR-26 is filed. Driving now risks additional charges.
Contact Your Insurer
UrgentIf the lapse is recent (within days), your insurer may be able to backdate coverage or prevent the SR-26 from being filed. Act fast.
Get New SR-22 Coverage
UrgentIf the SR-26 was already filed, you need a new SR-22 policy. Shop quickly—electronic filing can update the state within 24 hours.
Pay Reinstatement Fees
Once new SR-22 is on file, pay any required state reinstatement fees to restore your license.
Verify with DMV
Confirm your license is reinstated before driving. Don't assume—verify directly with the DMV.
Can the Lapse Be Reversed?
Sometimes, but only if you act immediately
Possibly Reversible
- Within 24-48 hours: Some insurers can reinstate coverage before the SR-26 is processed by the state
- Payment error: If lapse was due to bank error or payment processing issue, provide documentation
- Grace period: Some states have brief grace periods before the SR-26 triggers suspension
Usually Not Reversible
- SR-26 already filed: Once the state receives notice, the suspension is typically automatic
- Extended lapse: More than a few days of lapse is unlikely to be backdated
- Non-payment lapse: Insurers can't backdate if you simply didn't pay
Understanding the SR-26 Form
Why lapse consequences happen so quickly
The SR-26 is an Automatic Notification
When you have SR-22 insurance, your policy includes an agreement that the insurer will immediately notify the state if your coverage ends for any reason. This notification is called the SR-26 form.
How it works:
- • You miss a payment or cancel
- • Insurer files SR-26 with state
- • State receives within 24-48 hours
- • Automatic license suspension triggers
Why it exists:
- • Ensures continuous coverage
- • Protects other drivers
- • Enforces court/DMV requirements
- • Creates legal accountability
Preventing Future SR-22 Lapses
How to avoid this situation again
Set Up AutoPay
Automatic payments ensure you never miss a due date. Use a credit card with fraud protection as backup.
Calendar Reminders
Set reminders 1 week before payment is due. Check that payments processed after each billing cycle.
Update Contact Info
Ensure your insurer has current phone, email, and address so you receive any payment failure notices immediately.
Multiple Lapses Can Trigger SR-22A Requirement
If you have repeated SR-22 lapses, some states (like Georgia) may require you to get an SR-22A instead. This is more restrictive:
- •Policy must be prepaid for a full 6-month term (non-refundable)
- •Cannot be canceled during the prepaid period
- •More expensive due to upfront payment requirement
Related Guides
Sources
Lapse consequences and recovery procedures verified against state DMV publications and insurance industry guidelines.
Last updated: January 8, 2026
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