An SR-22 is a certificate from your auto insurance company that proves to the state that you have the required coverage.
This is necessary if you’ve been convicted of a driving violation, such as a DUI, driving without insurance, or reckless driving. Many states make it difficult for non-commercial drivers with a DUI or similar conviction on their records to obtain an SR22. Non-commercial drivers are often known as high-risk drivers, and they require a special permit from the State of Texas known as an SR22. The procedure itself does not increase your insurance rates.
Is SR22 Insurance Actually Insurance?
SR22 Insurance in California is not, in fact, an auto insurance policy. Unfortunately, many drivers believe it to be one thing when, in reality, it’s something completely different. It’s simply a document that your insurance company submits on your behalf with the state to show that you are financially responsible.
The form, typically filed electronically, verifies that you have the appropriate insurance coverage in place by demonstrating that it is active. The state-mandated coverage may be identical to your state’s minimum liability insurance requirements, or it might have higher limits. The precise auto insurance coverage criteria vary from state to state.
Why Would an SR22 be Required?
Except Delaware, Kentucky, Minnesota, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Oklahoma, and Pennsylvania, most states require a motorist to obtain an SR-22.
The following are some of the reasons your state may demand an SR-22 certificate of financial responsibility:
- Driving uninsured
- Being uninsured in an accident
- Driving under the influence
- Reckless driving violations
- Too many license points
- Habitual traffic offenses
- License is suspended
How to Get an SR-22
You can only obtain an SR-22 from an insurance company if you need one. The goal of the form is to demonstrate that you have and will keep all necessary insurance coverage. An auto insurance policy must be purchased in order to obtain the SR-22 form.
To acquire an SR-22, you must go through an auto insurance firm that provides the filing (not all do) and purchase a policy with at least the required levels of coverage as stated by the state. In addition, you’ll need to keep the appropriate insurance coverage for the state’s required time period once you’ve completed the form. The length of time varies, but it is typically three years.
To verify that you have the required insurance coverage and limits, you must submit a certificate of financial responsibility with your application. Your insurance company gives you a copy so that you may use it as proof. In addition, most states keep it electronically in their records, making it readily available to law enforcement or the Department of Motor Vehicles if required.
What Are The Different Types of SR-22?
There are three different types of SR-22 certificates, and your insurance provider can help you decide which one is appropriate for you.
- Owner certificate – covers cars that you have in your name.
- Owner-operator certificate – covers any car you drive. The owner doesn’t matter.
- Non-owner certificate – covers you when you don’t have a car in your name.