If you’ve been contacted about needing to get an SR-22 insurance form, you might be wondering what it is and why you’re required to get the form to begin with.
If you’ve heard the term “SR-22” and are curious about what it means, read on to find out:
- What is an SR-22?
- Who needs an SR-22?
- How to get an SR-22
- What's the difference between the SR-22 & FR-44?
WHAT IS AN SR-22?
Commonly referred to as a type of insurance, the SR-22 is actually a form filed with your car insurance company and the state. The SR-22 document proves you have minimum liability insurance and promises you’ll keep that coverage for a certain amount of time. Ultimately, the form is a certificate of financial responsibility.
If you don’t have the SR-22 form, your insurance carrier is required to notify the state and your license could be suspended or revoked.
WHO NEEDS AN SR-22?
Most drivers will never need an SR-22 insurance form. These forms are most frequently required after a serious or repeated driving offense.
Here are some of the most common reasons for needing an SR-22:
- DUI or DWI conviction
- Serious or repeated driving violation(s)
- At-fault accident without insurance
- License suspension or revocation
- Hardship license
- Failure to pay court-ordered payments (like child support)
- Too many traffic violations in a short time
- Driving without enough insurance
Requirements for SR-22 forms vary state to state, but you’ll be notified by your local DMV or traffic court if one is required. Or, if you need an SR-22 in a state you don’t live in, your insurance carrier can often file it wherever you are currently visiting or temporarily living.
SR-22 & No Car
Even if you don’t own a vehicle, you may find you’re required to get an SR-22 to reinstate your license. That way, you can legally drive a car you don’t own or one you’re renting.
Some car insurance policies are available with certain companies for non-owners or those with an SR-22. Not only do you need this kind of policy to legally drive, but it’s also helpful not to have any gaps in your insurance policy. Gaps in insurance could mean you’ll face higher premiums after your SR-22 requirement is complete.
How Long Do You Need an SR-22?
The terms for an SR-22 vary in every state, but typically you’ll need to show continuous car insurance coverage for approximately three years (or longer in certain states).
Once you’ve successfully completed the terms of the SR-22 requirements, your need for the SR-22 will usually be lifted. However, if your policy lapses or expires, or you don’t comply with the terms of the SR-22 requirements, there’s a potential your license will be suspended.
How Much is an SR-22?
A one-time filing fee will be necessary for your SR-22 form. This fee is often approximately $25, but varies depending on your location.
You may also end up paying higher premiums with your insurance agency, depending on the original infraction that caused your required SR-22.
HOW TO GET AN SR-22
While the process will vary from state to state, these are the general steps that will happen:
- You’ll be notified by your local Department of Motor Vehicles or traffic court that you are required to have an SR-22.
- If you have car insurance: Once notified, reach out to your insurance agency. You’ll need to confirm they offer the SR-22 form service and, if not, shop around for a policy that will.
- If you don’t have car insurance: Find an insurance company that offers the SR-22 service in order to keep your driving privileges intact. You’ll likely have to pay an entire six months or a year’s worth of premium to secure the policy.
WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE SR-22 & FR-44?
Similar to the SR-22 form, a couple of states require a FR-44 form instead. Used in Florida and Virginia, FR-44 forms work just like the SR-22 in that they are mandated by the state and required to drive legally.
FR-44 forms differ from SR-22 in that they carry higher (often double) liability minimum requirements than both SR-22 and non-FR-44 holders.
As you can see, the SR-22 insurance form has unique requirements that you’ll need to adhere to. If you are required to hold an SR-22, you’ll be contacted by your state’s DMV or traffic court, then simply contact your car insurance provider.
If you need help finding the best car insurance coverage for the best price, start by speaking to a SimplyIOA agent at 833.872.4467 or get an auto insurance quote online now.
