6 min read
First things first: what is SR-22 insurance? An SR-22 is not insurance, but rather a certificate of financial responsibility typically filed by an insurer to prove you have the minimum auto insurance required in your state.
If your driver’s license has been suspended due to driving under the influence (DUI), driving without car insurance, or for repeated traffic violations, you may be required to file an SR-22 to reinstate or maintain your driving privileges. Drivers are typically required to maintain the certificate for three years, but the requirement can be longer depending on the seriousness of the violation(s).
At Kemper Auto, we make filing an SR-22 quick and easy, taking the weight off your shoulders. Having to get your driving privileges back can be stressful, but our goal is to help you get back on the road as soon as possible once your qualifying policy is active.
Understanding SR-22 requirements: when you need the certificate
You’ll typically receive notice from your Secretary of State (SOS) or Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) if you’re required to file an SR-22 after certain driving violations. The requirement may apply in situations such as:
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DUI / DWI (driving while intoxicated)
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Driving without insurance
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License suspension
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At-fault accident without auto insurance coverage
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Multiple traffic violations
In some cases, a judge may directly order you to file an SR-22 as part of a sentence, typically for more serious or repeat violations. Most states may require you to have an SR-22 for about three years, while others can extend the requirement to five years or more, depending on the severity and repetition of the offense.
How does filing an SR-22 work
If you need to get an SR-22, you’re probably overwhelmed by the situation and have no idea where to start so you can get back on the road legally. The good news is, the process is often straightforward, especially with Kemper Auto:
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Purchase or update policy: You need to have auto insurance that meets the minimum requirements in your state, typically liability coverage, before you can get an SR-22.
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Insurance company files the SR-22: Once your policy is active, your insurer may then electronically file the SR-22 form on your behalf. Not all insurers file SR-22s, but with Kemper, you can often file the same day you request.
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The state receives confirmation: The Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or SOS is notified of your SR-22 and updates your record, allowing you to move forward in restoring your driving privileges.
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Maintain continuous coverage: Your policy must remain active and compliant with state law. Any lapse in coverage can result in penalties, such as a license suspension and restarting the SR-22 requirement.
Financial responsibility certificate vs. regular insurance: key differences
A common misconception is that an SR-22 is a special type of insurance policy. It’s important to understand that your SR-22 and auto insurance policy are two different things. Here are key distinctions:
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SR-22: This is a document filed by your insurer to show the state that you meet minimum auto insurance requirements.
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Car insurance policy: This is your actual insurance coverage, which can pay for damages or injuries if you’re involved in an accident, within the limits of your policy and depending on your coverage type(s).
Your insurance ID card is also a separate part. Your insurance card proves you have an insurance policy, but an SR-22 proves that your insurance policy meets legal minimum requirements in your state.
In summary, an SR-22 is for regulatory compliance; it doesn’t provide any auto coverage and simply verifies that you have the required coverage in your state. Understanding the difference between an SR-22 and auto insurance can help you navigate the process of getting insured post-DUI or another situation requiring the certificate.
What does an SR-22 cover?
It’s possible that you thought an SR-22 was a type of auto insurance coverage, but an SR-22 doesn’t cover anything.
An SR-22 isn’t insurance, as previously mentioned, but rather a certificate that proves you carry the minimum car insurance required by your state. If you need an SR-22, you will first need to obtain an actual insurance policy, with coverage such as liability (required in most states), and often, collision and comprehensive.
With an SR-22, your insurer must monitor your policy status and report to the state if your insurance is canceled, lapses, or if you fail to make timely payments. These updates ensure that you maintain continuous coverage, particularly after a serious violation like a DUI or DWI. If you need additional clarification, a Kemper agent will be happy to help!
How long does SR-22 last: duration and maintenance requirements
An SR-22 requirement typically lasts about three years, depending on the state and type of violation that led to the need for the certificate. In some states, an SR-22 may be required for less time or even up to five years.
Typically, the timeline for when the SR-22 is required starts on the day your license is reinstated, or the SR-22 is filed and accepted by your state, not necessarily the date of your conviction or violation. So, it’s important to file as soon as you’re required to, to avoid delaying the start of your required SR-22 period.
If your policy lapses, say, because you forgot to pay for your insurance, your insurer is required to notify the state. Also, if your insurance is canceled or not renewed, the insurer must also report it. The state may then suspend your license again, reset the required period for your SR-22, or even require additional fees to reinstate your driving privileges.
If you have an SR-22, you will still need to make sure you renew your auto insurance like any other standard policy, usually every six months or year. Once you have completed the required time for your SR-22 without interruptions to your auto insurance, you may request the removal of the SR-22 requirement once you confirm eligibility with your state and speak to your insurer so they can file the necessary paperwork.
The process may sound like a lot, but it is designed to encourage consistent and responsible driving. Speak with a Kemper agent to file your SR-22 quickly and efficiently.
Non-owner SR-22 insurance: coverage without a vehicle
Don’t own a vehicle and need to file an SR-22? Don’t worry, you have options! A non-owner SR-22 policy exists for drivers who don’t own a car but have been ordered to get an SR-22.
If you drive rental or borrowed cars, a non-owner SR-22 may be a good fit. The certificate can:
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Help cover liability when driving cars you don’t own.
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Help you maintain or reinstate your driving privileges, even if you can’t prove ownership of a vehicle
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Often be more affordable than a standard SR-22, because you’re not also paying for coverage on a car
A non-owner SR-22 does not cover a car you own or regularly use. Call 800-782-1020 to speak with an agent to help determine which SR-22 policy is best for your situation.
Choosing an insurance company for SR-22 filing
Take care when choosing the right insurer to file your SR-22. Not all insurers offer SR-22 filings, so it is important that you find one that does. Many insurance companies avoid high-risk drivers in general. So, comparison shopping for an adequate auto insurance company is essential.
When evaluating potential insurers you want to go with, consider these key factors:
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Cost: Insurance policies with an SR-22 may be more costly because of the high risk associated with them.
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Filing capability: Not all insurers can file an SR-22 in every state. You need to ensure you find a company that is authorized to file the form with your state Department of Motor Vehicles.
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State availability: There are insurers that only offer SR-22 filings in certain states, which may impact your ability to maintain continuous coverage and SR-22 compliance if you move.
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Customer service: Responsive support matters when it comes to filing your SR-22 in a timely manner, and without errors. That’s why choosing an insurer like Kemper Auto is important.
At Kemper, we help drivers, even those considered high-risk, get the coverage they need to stay legally compliant. We offer timely, effective SR-22 support so you can file the same day without delays.
Answering questions about SR-22 certificates (FAQ)
Why do I need an SR-22?
You may be required by the state to file an SR-22 after serious driving violations, like a DUI, DWI, driving uninsured, reckless driving, and other traffic offenses. An SR-22 is a certificate of financial responsibility that proves to the state that you have at least the minimum required coverage and will maintain it for the period that you are required to.
How much does an SR-22 cost?
The cost varies depending on the carrier and by state. However, the filing is usually inexpensive, typically costing around $25. Once you are required to file an SR-22 and are deemed a high-risk driver, your insurance premiums may go up, depending on the violation, driving history, and location.
Is it easy to get an SR-22?
If you're wondering what SR-22 car insurance is and if it's hard to get, the process is simple. Once you purchase a qualifying policy that has the minimum insurance requirements set in your state, an insurer files the SR-22 on your behalf. At Kemper Auto, we make it easy and handle the filing for you at an affordable price.
What if I move states?
You still need to maintain your SR-22 requirement even if you relocate. This usually means keeping a policy that can be filed in the state you are moving to and notifying your DMV to stay compliant with the law.
Can I remove it early?
Typically, no. You must maintain an SR-22 for the duration of time you are required to. Removing an SR-22 requirement early can result in license suspension or restarting your filing timeline.
To recap, an SR-22 is not actually auto insurance, but rather a certificate you may be required by the state to get that proves you carry the minimum coverage after serious driving violations, like DUIs, driving without insurance, repeated offenses, and more. You must maintain your SR-22 for the required period to stay compliant with your state. At Kemper Auto, we can help you file your SR-22 the same day you request, even if you are classified as a high-risk driver. We understand it can be stressful to file an SR-22 for the first time, but our knowledgeable agents are happy to help and walk you through the process. Reach out today to file yours!
