How to Get an SR-22 Certificate: A Step-by-Step Guide
If you’ve been convicted of a DUI or another serious infraction, the court might have required you to file a certificate of financial responsibility, also known as an SR-22. You’ll need to know how to get an SR-22 certificate before you restore your driving privileges. Once you understand the basics by exploring this SR-22 filing guide, you can set up your SR-22 auto insurance and get back on the road stress-free.
What Is an SR-22 and When Do You Need One?
An SR-22 is a form you file to verify that you have an active insurance policy that meets your state’s minimum requirements. Several states have laws that require certain high-risk drivers to file this certificate in order to restore their licenses.
The Basics of an SR-22 Certificate
The SR-22 certificate is a form you file to confirm that you can fulfill your financial obligations if you cause an accident; in other words, it proves to the state that you have sufficient insurance. While many states require all drivers to carry minimum coverage, people who have been convicted of certain driving-related infractions need to take an extra step to file an SR-22.
Who Needs an SR-22 Certificate?
You’ll need to file an SR-22 certificate to reinstate your license if it was suspended due to certain infractions. Different states will require SR-22s in different situations, but they typically apply to serious driving-related charges, such as driving under the influence. Other common reasons you might need to file an SR-22 include:
- Reckless driving
- Driving without a license
- Driving with a suspended license
- Accruing too many tickets or points on your license
Some states may also require you to file a certificate of financial responsibility if your child support payments are delinquent. Regardless of the reason, learning how to get an SR-22 certificate and file it with the state is an important step in regaining your driving privileges.
How to Get an SR-22 Certificate
Learn how to get an SR-22 certificate after a DUI by following this simple SR-22 guide.
Step 1: Check If You’re Eligible for SR-22 Insurance
First, ensure that you’re able to start the process of getting coverage and restoring your license. Some states will suspend your license for a certain period of time before you can file your SR-22 and get your license restored. You can do this by contacting your local Department of Motor Vehicles or Department of Public Safety.
Step 2: Choose the Right Insurance Provider for SR-22 Coverage
Next, look for an insurer. Some companies don’t offer SR-22 insurance for high-risk drivers with recent DUIs, so you may need to shop around. It can be helpful to work with an insurer such as Freeway that specializes in SR-22 coverage and affordable DUI insurance. Not only will they be able to provide you with the best rates and discounts, but they can also walk you through the entire process of filing and renewing your form.
Step 3: File Your SR-22 With the State
Finally, you need to file the SR-22. This step is easy; your insurer will file the form on your behalf at an average cost of $45. Simply let them know that you have to file a certificate of financial responsibility. They’ll renew the form as needed and handle the entire SR-22 insurance process, so you don’t need to submit the form directly.
The Costs Associated With SR-22 Insurance
Getting insured while under SR-22 restrictions can be expensive. By planning ahead, you can get the coverage you need while staying in budget.
Understanding SR-22 Premiums and Fees
If you get convicted of a DUI or another serious moving violation, your premium will probably increase. Costs vary by state, but you can expect your monthly costs to rise significantly for at least a few years. After you complete your SR-22 period, your costs will likely go down, although different insurers may have different timelines for forgiving your driving history.
Additionally, you may have to pay a small filing fee to submit your SR-22. The exact cost depends on your state, but it’s typically a small amount ranging from $15 to $50. You’ll also have to pay initial license reinstatement fees, which are usually a few hundred dollars.
How to Lower Your SR-22 Insurance Costs
Although your premium will probably go up while you’re under SR-22 restrictions, there are ways to minimize your rate increase. Signing up for discount programs, taking defensive driving courses, and bundling your policy can be great ways to lower your monthly policy costs.
How to Maintain Your SR-22 Certificate and Avoid Penalties
You don’t just need to file an SR-22 once; you need to keep your coverage active for your entire SR-22 restriction period.
The Importance of Keeping Your SR-22 Insurance Active
Keeping an active auto policy should be your top priority if you’re dealing with SR-22 restrictions. The status of your license depends on your insurance status, so letting your policy expire could have serious consequences.
What Happens If You Let Your SR-22 Expire?
If you let your coverage lapse while under SR-22 restrictions, you could interfere with your driving privileges and rack up additional fees. Your insurer will inform the DMV that your policy expired, which will result in your license being suspended. In that case, you’ll have to reactivate your policy, pay additional filing fees, and pay for license reinstatement again. This will also extend the timeline of your SR-22 requirements, delaying your ability to drive without SR-22 restrictions.
Need SR-22 Insurance? Get a Quote and Get Back on the Road
Dealing with a DUI can be complicated, but setting up your SR-22 coverage doesn’t have to be. By working with an insurer that specializes in serving high-risk drivers, you can set up a policy and file your certificate with ease.
SR-22 Adviser is the go-to insurance provider for high-risk drivers, including those dealing with DUI convictions. The SR-22 team will help you pick out a plan that meets requirements in your state, then file your certificate with the state to ensure you’re in good standing. Find an affordable plan at Freeway today by finding a store near you, comparing plans online, or calling an experienced agent at (800) 777-5620.
FAQs
Learn more about setting up your certificate of financial responsibility by reviewing these common questions:
What Is the Difference Between an SR-22 and FR-44?
SR-22 and FR-44 forms are both designed to verify that you have enough auto insurance coverage. However, FR-44 certificates specifically apply to DUI, while SR-22 forms can apply to many different types of charges. To file an FR-44, you’ll typically need to have higher insurance limits than SR-22 minimums. Only Florida and Virginia use the FR-44 form.
How Long Do You Need to Keep an SR-22?
Timelines vary by state, but you typically need to keep your SR-22 coverage active for three years.
Can I Get an SR-22 for My Motorcycle or Other Vehicles?
You can get SR-22 coverage for a motorcycle or other motor vehicle. In most cases, the same rules apply regardless of the vehicle, except for commercial ones. Some states have different insurance requirements for motorcycles, so be sure to check the laws in your area.
Does an SR-22 Affect My Insurance Premium?
Having to file an SR-22 won’t directly impact your premium, but the reason you’re filing for SR-22 will likely have an impact on your rates. For example, getting convicted of a DUI will increase your risk level as a policyholder, and your rates will likely go up for a period of time.
How Quickly Can I Get My SR-22 Certificate Filed?
It doesn’t take long to file an SR-22; in some states, your insurer can set up your SR-22 form the same day that you purchase a policy. In other states, it may take a few business days to process the certificate.
