What is an SR-22?

Do you need an SR-22?

Not everyone needs an SR-22. Courts or states typically require an SR-22 following more serious infractions, like driving without a valid license, driving without insurance, or other major violations.

Common reasons you might need to file an SR-22 form:

• DUI or DWI conviction
• Driving without a valid license
• Driving without car insurance or enough insurance
• Too many at-fault accidents or violations
• Repeat offenses in a short time frame (for example, three or more speeding tickets within six months)
• Not paying court-ordered child support
• Hardship license (issued for temporary driving needs, normally to and from work, because your license has been suspended or revoked)

These situations may also affect your auto insurance rate. Learn more about how to get auto insurance after a DUI or DWI and how your rate is affected.

How do you know if you need an SR-22?

A court or your state orders you to file an SR-22. If a court orders an SR-22, the judge tells you at the hearing. If your state orders an SR-22, the department (or bureau) of motor vehicles typically sends you a letter.

Is an FR-44 the same thing as an SR-22?

Both forms serve the same purpose: an FR-44 and an SR-22 ensure drivers carry the right insurance coverage. Only Florida and Virginia require drivers to file an FR-44, usually after serious offenses like a DWI or DUI with high blood alcohol concentrations or multiple offenses. The FR-44 document closely resembles an SR-22, but the liability limits are typically double the state's minimum.

How do you get an SR-22?

If your insurance company offers SR-22 form filings, all you have to do is call them and they'll take care of it. Your insurer adds the SR-22 endorsement to your existing policy and files the SR-22 insurance document with the state that requires it.

If you don't have auto insurance or your current insurer doesn't offer SR-22s, find an auto insurer that offers an SR-22 policy. Since many insurance companies don't offer coverage for SR-22s, let potential insurers know up front that you require an SR-22 to save time.

What if you need an SR-22 in a state you don't live in?

That's common, especially if you received a violation while visiting or living in a different state. Many insurers, including Progressive, can file your SR-22 anytime and anywhere in the United States.

What if you need an SR-22 and don't have a car?

If you're required to file an SR-22 but don't own a vehicle, you can purchase a non-owner car insurance policy. This type of policy provides liability coverage that meets your state's requirements and allows you to fulfill the SR-22 filing requirement. Many states require drivers to keep an SR-22 on file for at least three years; some states may require a longer period.

After you purchase a non-owner car insurance policy, your insurer files the SR-22 form with your state's department of motor vehicles.

Learn more about non-owner car insurance, including how it works, what it costs, and filing requirements.

How much does an SR-22 cost?

An SR-22 costs approximately $25 to file, though the cost may vary by state and the insurance company, according to U.S. News & World Report. In some states, you pay the filing fee up front. Progressive includes the SR-22 filing fee in your cost for each policy term. You typically pay the filing fee for each policy term while the SR-22 is required.

How much will an SR-22 increase the cost of your insurance?

Insurers often classify SR-22 drivers as riskier to insure, so your rate could increase. However, the increase to your policy's rate may vary based on your ZIP code, vehicle, driving record, insurance history, and other factors.

How do you know when your SR-22 is up?

Contact your state's department of motor vehicles to find out the exact length of time. Most states typically require you to carry an SR-22 for three years.

How do you get an SR-22 removed?

Your insurance policy won't automatically remove the SR-22 when it's no longer needed. You must contact your insurance company to remove the SR-22 from your policy. If your policy is canceled or lapses while you carry an SR-22, your insurance company notifies the DMV, which suspends your license.

How to get an SR-22 with Progressive

Progressive can provide an SR-22 quickly and easily, regardless of the reason. For new customers in most states, immediately upon the purchase of your policy, Progressive electronically files your SR-22 form with the department of motor vehicles in the requested state. In certain states, Progressive files the SR-22 by mail if required. Whether you're a current or existing customer, you can call 1-866-749-7436 for assistance, or log in online or use the app to get your SR-22.

Get affordable SR-22 car insurance with Progressive