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What Is SR-22 and Who Needs It?

Amani Turnage

Risky driving carries its own set of serious consequences. Driving under the influence or repeatedly driving at excessive speeds is dangerous and can cost you more than you want to pay. Court costs, hospital bills, and costly car repairs are reason enough to drive safely, but depending on the state in which you drive, you may also need to file a form with the state to ensure you are insured. Keep reading to better understand what an SR 22 form is and who might need one.

What Is SR-22?

The SR-22 is a form of financial responsibility kept on file with your state's department of motor vehicles, certifying that you possess the minimum required amount of liability insurance. Many states require SR-22 forms from drivers who have committed serious driving infractions.

Reasons for Needing an SR-22

You might need to maintain an SR-22 form if you are designated a high-risk driver in accordance with your state's legal definitions. For instance, if you have been convicted of driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Likewise, you need to keep an SR-22 on file if you have accumulated enough points on your license or repeatedly get caught driving without a license. More detail can likely be found on your state's Department of Motor Vehicles website.

How SR-22 Works

It's important to remember that the SR-22 form is not insurance but a form auto insurance companies provide, certifying that you have insurance. If you're required to submit an SR-22, you will submit a request to your insurance provider, who will send the SR-22 to the state on your behalf.

Types of SR-22

Let's explore the three types of SR-22 forms in order to better discern which one might be right for you.

  • Standard SR-22: The standard SR-22 is sometimes known as the "Owner's SR-22" as well. As the name implies, this SR-22 covers the vehicles you own.
  • Non-Owner SR-22: By contrast, the non-owner SR-22 is required if you need an SR-22 covering vehicles you don't own but may drive. Like non-owner car insurance, this SR-22 is designed for people who often drive other people's vehicles. Depending on your type of work, you may need a non-owner SR-22 to drive your employer's vehicles.
  • Owner/Operator SR-22: This is the broadest option, providing proof of coverage on both vehicles you own and those you don't.

Duration and Compliance

You will need to maintain an active SR-22 for the entire length of your court-ordered time. Of course, the specific time will depend on your case and the state in which you live, but usually you can expect to maintain an SR-22 for between 1 and 3 years.

Failure to maintain your required SR-22 can carry significant costs, including fines and court fees. Likewise, if you let your insurance lapse, your provider will inform the state, likely leading to the loss of your driver's license, higher insurance rates, and more headaches and hassle. For instance, drivers in Tennessee who fail to maintain the requisite SR-22 face the immediate suspension of driving privileges.

Tips for Obtaining an SR-22

If you need to get an SR-22 form, it's usually best to start by finding the right insurance policy from a reputable company. In general, people needing an SR-22 form will pay higher premiums based on the traffic violations, at-fault accidents, or license suspension that landed them in trouble in the first place. For this reason, finding an insurance provider that can offer you a good deal or multiple discounts is essential to offset some of the costs.

Saving More on SR-22

Risky driving is foolish, but failing to shop around for the right car insurance isn't very wise either. Car insurance rates vary significantly based on your age, driving history, and the make and model of your car. Expect rates to increase based on car accidents. So, how do you find the best insurance for your needs and within your budget? Get car insurance quotes from multiple car insurance carriers in your area. Don't sleep on the car insurance discounts either. Whether you need an SR-22 or have the cleanest driving record possible, you'll benefit from finding the best coverage. Fill out our easy form today!

FAQs About SR-22

Who needs to file an SR-22?
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SR-22 forms are required for people who are designated as high-risk drivers by state law. In general, you may need to file the SR-22 insurance form if you've been convicted of driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. If your state utilizes a points system, you may also need to file an SR 22 insurance form if you incur a certain number of points on your driver's license. Finally, if your license has been suspended or revoked, it's likely you will need to request an SR-22 as a part of the process to have your driver's license reinstated.
How long do I need to maintain an SR-22?
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The length of time you will be required to maintain an active SR-22 form is determined by state law. In most cases, you should expect to keep an active form on file for 1-3 years. No matter how long you're required to keep the form on file, it's important to maintain consistent coverage for the entire term. If you miss even one payment, your auto insurance provider can notify the state and terminate your policy, leaving you in a world of hurt.
How much does an SR-22 affect car insurance rates?
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People with an SR-22 form pay more, but it's not because of the form itself. Your car insurance rate is calculated using factors like your age, zip code, and driving history. You can expect the SR-22 filing fee to be less than $50, depending on your auto insurer. Unfortunately, whatever problematic driving history, such as driving under the influence, that necessitates your SR-22 requirement will also cause your car insurance premiums to skyrocket. Car insurance rates after an accident often increase. And in general, high-risk car insurance costs more. For instance, car insurance rates after a DUI conviction can double.