SR-22 Auto Insurance: What It Means, Who Needs It and How It Affects Your Premium 

An SR22 is a certificate filed by your insurance company with your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles. It proves that you carry the minimum liability coverage required by law. This filing is typically mandated by a court or state authority following certain driving-related offenses.

Drivers may be required to carry an SR22 after incidents such as driving under the influence, reckless driving, driving without insurance or accumulating multiple traffic violations in a short period. In some cases, an SR-22 may also be required after a license suspension or revocation.

The duration of the SR-22 requirement varies by state and situation, but it often lasts between three and five years. During this time, maintaining continuous coverage is critical. A lapse or cancellation could result in penalties or an extension of the SR-22 period.

How SR-22 Affects Your Premium

An SR-22 requirement typically signals to insurers that you are a higher-risk driver. As a result, your premium may increase. The amount of the increase depends on several factors, including your driving history, the nature of the offense and your location.

In addition to higher premiums, some insurers may charge a filing fee to submit the SR-22 on your behalf. This fee is usually modest, but it’s an added cost. Not all insurance companies offer SR-22 filings, so you may need to switch providers if your current insurer does not support it.

Contact Us

If you’ve been notified that you need an SR-22 or have questions about how it affects your insurance, contact SaveGuard Insurance for guidance and support.

This blog is intended for informational and educational use only. It is not exhaustive and should not be construed as legal advice. Please contact your insurance professional for further information.