Auto insurance serves as a safety net against various kinds of accidents. However, high-risk drivers usually require SR-22 documentation to comply with state minimum insurance requirements. If you have a bad driving record or unpaid court judgments, you might need SR-22.
Understanding the process of obtaining an SR-22 and navigating insurance requirements can provide peace of mind when needed. Though it’s a fairly easy procedure, note that not all insurance providers provide SR-22 documentation. You might then have to look for a new policy to get the coverage you require. To help you prepare, we will take you step-by-step through the SR-22 certification procedure.
What is SR-22 Insurance
An SR-22 insurance document certifies high-risk drivers’ coverage that meets or exceeds state legal minimums. If you’ve been revoked or suspended, found guilty of serious moving violations, or held responsible for multiple accidents, the DMV may order you to obtain an SR-22. Moreover, if necessary, get in touch with your insurance provider to request that they submit the necessary documentation for an SR-22.
How Does SR-22 Insurance Work
When you will require an SR-22 should be fairly obvious to you. A driving offense will usually result in a court order requiring you to obtain one. You can also find out if you need to obtain an SR-22 from the Department of Motor Vehicles in your state.
The SR-22 form filing responsibility falls on your auto insurance provider. Although you might be able to add this to an existing policy, just note that not all auto insurers will offer SR-22. You will then need to look for a new policy.
However, the violation requiring an SR-22 will result in significant upfront costs. First, your insurance provider might charge you a one-time fee for filing the SR-22. After you’ve confirmed your coverage, be ready to pay a fee or a significant amount of your yearly premium upfront to your provider.
Do I Need an SR-22 Insurance
A state or a court has ordered an SR-22. At the hearing, the judge will inform you if it is mandated by the court. You should normally receive a letter from your state’s department (or bureau) of motor vehicles if it’s state-ordered. Not everybody requires an SR-22. If you’ve been caught driving without insurance or a valid license, it’s usually necessary. Other reasons why you might have to submit an SR-22 form are as follows:
- Conviction for DUI or DWI.
- Operating a vehicle without sufficient insurance.
- Too many infractions or accidents involving fault.
- Repeat infractions in a brief period (three or more speeding tickets in six months, for instance).
- Not paying court-ordered child support.
- A hardship license is issued when your license is suspended or revoked and is needed for short-term driving, usually to and from work.
How Much Does SR-22 Cost
The cost to obtain an SR-22 varies between insurance companies. Some charge a fee to complete this step, while others file the certification for free. These charges vary depending on the insurance company, but they usually fall between $15 and $25.
How Long Do I Need SR-22
Generally, SR-22 requirements vary by state but require continuous insurance coverage for three years. If your policy lapses or expires, your insurance provider must inform the state. Failure to follow these conditions may result in a suspension of your license. SR-22 status is typically lifted once you meet the state’s time requirements.
Will SR-22 Increase My Insurance Rates
Your insurance premiums will usually go up if you have an SR-22 because the insurance company is taking on more risk. Your rates may go up depending on several variables, including the type of violation and the company. You should discuss options to reduce your car insurance costs with your auto insurer in the interim. The good news is that you will probably get better rates once the SR-22 is no longer needed.
Does a SR-22 Require a Defensive Driving Course
Defensive driving course completion is not usually required by an SR-22 requirement. However, a court may mandate it as part of the punishment for a driving infraction in certain situations. Even though it’s not strictly necessary for SR-22 compliance, it could still be a smart decision for people who want to get better at driving and maybe lessen the effects of their traffic infractions. Furthermore, it is possible to find out if taking a defensive driving course in addition to filing an SR-22 together with legal counsel or the DMV.
How to Get SR-22 Insurance
You only need to give your insurance company a call to take care of filing an SR-22 form if they offer such services. The SR-22 insurance document will be filed with the state that requires it, and they will add the SR-22 endorsement to your current policy.
You will need to purchase a new policy if you don’t have auto insurance or if your present provider doesn’t offer SR-22s. You will save yourself time by informing prospective insurers up front that you need an SR-22 since many insurance companies do not provide coverage for them.