SR 22 Insurance - When Do You Need It?
SR-22 is a "certification" of insurance. It does not replace an insurance policy.
What is SR-22 Insurance?
SR-22 car insurance for bad driving records and high-risk drivers
An SR-22 is a certification of insurance. This will not replace your insurance policy. It's an approved state-specific document that verifies you carry car insurance. There is an application process that typically happens if your state department of motor vehicles requests one from you in writing. Other instances may come from the courts.
An SR-22 proves you carry car insurance. Some people refer to the SR 22 car as a certificate of financial responsibility (CFR) filing. The SR22 simply states you’re meeting your state’s car insurance coverage requirements for driving over a specified amount of time.
SR22, SR-22, SR 22, SR22 form: Is it all the same?
Yes, no matter what you call SR22, all of the above will refer to SR-22 car insurance for drivers.
When Do I Need an SR-22 Certificate?
Depending on your situation and what caused the SR22 request, you may need it for any of the following reasons:
DUI or DWI conviction
Driving without insurance (or while underinsured)
Excessive violations or at-fault accidents
Excessive violations within a specific time frame
Suspended license
Serious car accident
If you found yourself required to apply for an SR-22 it is typically required to have for three years. This will change if you commit an additional violation during this 3 year period. But first, the only way to get an SR-22 is by purchasing car insurance. Start below and compare quotes from 30 companies now. It's free.
SR-22 and FR44 What You Need To Know
What does an SR-22 cost?
Some auto insurance providers file SR22s for free as part of the policy. Some do not and charge a fee for it. For the most part, they are cheap relatively speaking ranging from $15 to $35. If you’re a high-risk driver, you'll pay more based on that predicted risk.
Premium increases due to common driving violations could increase from $348 to $1,218 per year more than average.
What do I need to do to get SR-22 insurance?
Information will vary by state but you tell the company you are a driver in need of an SR 22. Additionally, you need your driver’s license number or another identification number for filing with the state you drive.
Getting an SR-22 with a vehicle
Call your insurance agent or company and request one. They should provide the SR22 to the DMV. Some providers do not provide SR22s and if that is the case you will probably need to compare car insurance with another car insurance company that does.
What are the main types of SR 22 certificates?
Operator SR-22: Designed for drivers who borrow or rent a car, but don’t own a car. Commonly used with a non-owner car insurance policy
Owner: An Owner’s Form is for those who own and drive their own car.
Operator/Owner: An Operator/Owner certificate is a combination form that works for those who own their own car, but may also borrow or rent one to drive.
Can I buy a policy with an SR22 online?
Yes, these can be bought online along with your policy.
SR22 vs. FR44: What do I need?
States like Florida and Virginia may require a FR 44 rather than an SR-22. This is primarily based on your driving record. FR-44 is a certificate of financial responsibility proving you have car insurance. FR44 may require the liability to be higher than your state requirements.
What is a certificate of financial responsibility (CFR)?
A certificate of financial responsibility is an interchangeable terminology for SR22 insurance. This proves you have met your state’s minimum car insurance requirements for a specified amount of time.
Getting an SR-22 without a vehicle?
Step 1 would be to purchase non-owner car insurance. Step 2 file an SR-22. Non-owners car insurance is a liability insurance-only policy that covers an individual who does not own a car.
Can I get an SR22 today?
Yes, there are companies who will issue you one right away. Car insurance companies that specialize in and or accept high-risk driver types in most states are able to electronically send your SR-22 to the state the same day.
Driving Events that Cause SR-22 or FR-44 Certificates
DUI's and DWI Convictions
Along with your premium increasing your state will require an SR22 or FR 44 if you are in a state like Florida.
Caught Driving Without Insurance
Being a risk to others on the road is not a smart idea that is not good for anyone. If you are caught driving without insurance you will need to file for an SR22 certificate, buy car insurance and likely pay a higher premium or add higher than normal liability coverage.
Accumulating Excessive Driving Violations
Particularly within a certain amount of time or time frame.
Driving With a Suspended License
In most states, this is a serious violation and will likely cause you to purchase an SR22 certificate.
Serious Car Accidents
Particularly when or if you are at fault.
Compare Car Insurance Rates Instantly
Get quotes from companies that do Sr22 certificates now.
More Articles For High Risk Driver Types
High risk drivers come in all shapes and sizes
Going to college is a great experience. Driving a car can add extra convenience and provide additional opportunities of exploration. But coverage can be expensive. Learn more how to get cheaper insurance.
Male drivers under 25 are notoriously high risk drivers. Because of this most auto insurers will deem you to be high risk and charge higher rates. So what can you do?
Accumulating traffic tickets will quickly increase your rate and as a result your monthly car insurance payment goes up. Learn more what you can do.
DUI/DWI's are one of the major events that will have huge effects on your car insurance payment. You may get dropped or find that your premium just increased over 400%. Learn more what you can do here.