The basics
What is SR-22 insurance?
Despite the name, an SR-22 is not actually insurance. It is a form — a Certificate of Financial Responsibility — that your insurance company files with your state's department of motor vehicles to prove you carry the minimum required liability coverage.
Why do states require it?
States use the SR-22 to monitor high-risk drivers and make sure they keep continuous insurance coverage. If your policy lapses or is canceled while an SR-22 is on file, your insurer is required to notify the state, which can result in another license suspension.
The filing itself is usually inexpensive — often $15 to $50. The real cost increase comes from the violation that triggered the requirement, because insurers now view you as a higher risk.
Who needs an SR-22?
- DUI or DWI conviction
- Driving without insurance
- At-fault accident without insurance
- Repeated traffic violations in a short period
- License suspension or revocation
- Reinstatement after a hardship permit
Types of SR-22 certificates
The right type depends on whether you own a vehicle and how you plan to drive.
SR-22 vs. car insurance
It is a common misconception that an SR-22 is a special type of insurance policy. In reality, you purchase a standard auto insurance policy (or a non-owner policy) and the SR-22 is simply an add-on certificate that your insurer sends to the state.
Not all insurance companies offer SR-22 filings. We work with a network of carriers that specialize in high-risk drivers, so you can find the coverage and filing service you need in one place.
SR-22 = proof of insurance, not insurance itself
Your insurer files the certificate; you still need an active policy behind it.
Not sure which SR-22 you need?
Our agents can review your court order or DMV notice and recommend the right certificate type.