Filing Basics
What is an SR22 filing?
An SR22 is not an insurance policy, but rather an official Certificate of Financial Responsibility that your insurance carrier files electronically with the DMV. It serves as proof that you carry active auto liability insurance meeting state minimum limits.
What is an FR44 and how does it differ from SR22?
Used exclusively in Florida and Virginia, an FR44 is mandated after DUI/DWI convictions. It requires liability limits substantially higher than standard minimums (e.g. 100/300/50 in Florida). SR22 filings only require state standard minimum liability.
How long am I required to maintain an active filing?
How long depends on your state and violation (for example, 2 years from conviction in Texas; the length of the suspension in Tennessee). Any lapse in coverage will cause the insurance company to notify the DMV, leading to a suspended license and resetting the three-year clock.
Cost & Payments
How much does an SR22 filing cost?
Whether there's an SR22 filing fee — and how much — is set by your insurance carrier. Some include the filing at no extra charge; others charge a small one-time fee. We'll tell you exactly what your carrier charges before you buy. In Illinois, state law bars any extra fee for filing the certificate (625 ILCS 5/7-317(l)). However, your insurance premiums will increase because you are classified as a high-risk driver. State reinstatement fees also apply and vary by state and violation.
Why did my insurance premiums go up?
Insurance rates are based on risk. Surcharges are added because your SR22 is tied to serious violations like a DUI, driving uninsured, or multiple violations. Shopping the non-standard marketplace is the best way to locate carrier options with smaller surcharges.
Are there flexible monthly payment options?
Yes. SR22 policies and non-owner policies typically allow flexible monthly installments, automatic credit card drafts, or EFT options to fit your budget.
Do insurance companies check credit for SR22 or FR44 quotes?
In most states, yes — carriers use a credit-based insurance score as one rating factor when setting your premium. California is the exception among the states we serve: state law prohibits credit-based insurance scoring entirely. For high-risk and non-standard carriers — which most SR22 and FR44 drivers use — your driving record and violation history typically carry far more weight than credit alone. A lower credit score will not prevent you from getting coverage. Call us at (855) 678-6977 and we will shop carriers that fit your situation.
Vehicle Ownership
Can I get an SR22 if I do not own a car?
Yes. You can purchase a Non-Owner SR22 Insurance Policy. This is designed for drivers who do not own a registered vehicle but must fulfill state filing requirements to restore their license. It is usually the lowest-cost reinstatement route.
What happens if I purchase a car after getting a non-owner policy?
If you buy a car, simply contact us to convert your non-owner policy to a standard owner policy. We will add the vehicle to your coverage and ensure your SR22 filing remains completely continuous without any interruption reporting to the DMV.
Reinstatement & DMV
How long does it take for the DMV to receive my filing?
Because we file electronically, the DMV database typically receives your certificate in under 15 minutes. Once received, you can log into your state's DMV website, pay the reinstatement fee, and verify your license status online.
What happens if I miss a payment or let my policy cancel?
If a policy cancels, the carrier must file an SR26/FR46 cancellation form. The state will be notified and can suspend your license and may reset your 3-year requirement clock. It is critical to set up autopay or reinstate your policy immediately if a lapse occurs.