Texas SR-22 Insurance Requirements
Understanding SR-22 and SR-22A insurance filing requirements, costs, and compliance in Texas after a DUI
2-Year SR-22 Requirement in Texas
Texas requires SR-22 insurance for 2 years following a DUI conviction or license reinstatement. Any lapse in coverage during this period will reset the entire 2-year requirement. Texas also accepts SR-22A filings for drivers who don't own a vehicle.
What is SR-22 Insurance in Texas?
SR-22 is not a type of insurance—it's a certificate of financial responsibility that proves you carry Texas's minimum liability insurance. The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) requires high-risk drivers to file SR-22 after certain violations.
Who Needs SR-22 in Texas
- DUI or DWI conviction
- Driving without insurance
- Repeated traffic violations
- License suspension for points
- At-fault accident without insurance
Texas Minimum Coverage
SR-22 vs. SR-22A in Texas
SR-22: Standard certificate for drivers who own a vehicle. Covers a specific vehicle you own.
SR-22A: Non-owner certificate for drivers without a vehicle. Provides liability coverage when driving a borrowed or rented vehicle. Often less expensive than standard SR-22.
SR-22 Costs in Texas
One-time fee to file SR-22 with Texas DPS
Average increase over normal rates (varies by insurer)
Must maintain SR-22 continuously
Total Cost: Expect to pay $1,000-$2,800 in additional premiums over the 2-year requirement period, plus the initial filing fee. SR-22A (non-owner) policies are typically 20-40% less expensive than standard SR-22. Actual cost depends on your driving history, age, location, and insurance company.
How to Get SR-22 in Texas (5 Steps)
Contact Insurance Companies
Call multiple insurers that offer SR-22 in Texas (Progressive, GEICO, State Farm, The General, National General). Not all companies offer SR-22, so ask specifically. If you don't own a vehicle, ask about SR-22A policies.
Purchase Liability Insurance
Buy an auto insurance policy that meets Texas minimum coverage requirements ($30k/$60k/$25k). Choose SR-22 if you own a vehicle or SR-22A if you don't. You must maintain this policy continuously for 2 years.
Request SR-22 Filing
Tell your insurer you need an SR-22 (or SR-22A) certificate filed with the Texas Department of Public Safety. They will add this to your policy and charge the filing fee ($15-30).
Insurer Files with DPS
Your insurance company electronically files the SR-22 certificate with the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS). This usually happens within 24-48 hours.
Receive Confirmation
You'll receive a copy of your SR-22 certificate. The DPS will update your records to show proof of insurance. Keep a copy in your vehicle at all times.
Critical: Avoiding Coverage Lapses
If your SR-22 insurance lapses for ANY reason during the 2-year period, Texas law requires:
- Your insurer must notify the Texas DPS within 10 days
- Your license is immediately suspended
- The entire 2-year requirement period restarts from scratch
- You'll pay reinstatement fees ($100-125) to restore your license
- Additional penalties and possible criminal charges for driving suspended
Common Causes of Lapse
- • Missing premium payment
- • Policy canceled by insurer
- • Switching insurers without maintaining SR-22
- • Letting policy expire accidentally
- • Selling your vehicle without getting SR-22A
How to Prevent Lapses
- • Set up automatic payments
- • Set calendar reminders for renewal
- • When switching insurers, ensure new SR-22 is filed BEFORE canceling old policy
- • If selling vehicle, switch to SR-22A immediately
- • Keep proof of SR-22 in vehicle
Insurance Companies Offering SR-22 in Texas
Not all insurers offer SR-22. These companies commonly provide SR-22 certificates in Texas:
Pro Tip: Get quotes from at least 3 companies. SR-22 rates vary significantly between insurers. Shopping around can save you hundreds of dollars over the 2-year period. If you don't own a vehicle, make sure to ask about SR-22A policies which can save 20-40% compared to standard SR-22.
Need Help with Texas DUI & SR-22 Requirements?
An experienced Texas DUI attorney can help you understand SR-22 requirements, navigate license reinstatement, and potentially reduce penalties that triggered the SR-22 requirement.
Find a Texas DUI AttorneyRelated Resources
Sources & References
Official guidance on SR-22 filing requirements and procedures in Texas.
State legislation regarding financial responsibility requirements after DUI.
Consumer resources and insurance company information.
Disclaimer: This guide provides general information about SR-22 insurance requirements in Texas. Laws and requirements may change. Always verify current requirements with the Texas DPS and consult with a licensed insurance agent or attorney for advice specific to your situation.