Becoming an Adult

SR-22: What It Means To You

3 September 2014

Robin King

You've likely heard the term 'SR-22' used before, but never really knew what it meant. Many people never have to worry about an SR-22, but if your state requires you to have one, you need to know what it is and how you can obtain it in order to regain your permission to drive legally in your state. Here are the basics about SR-22 insurance, and what it means to you if you are required to obtain it.

What SR-22 Is

An SR-22 is an endorsement from an insurer that shows you are financially responsible for meeting the level of coverage that you are required to provide. Unlike standard policies, SR-22 endorsements generally only apply to certain individuals deemed at risk of financially irresponsible behavior. 

Why You May Require SR-22

SR-22s are required for a number of different reasons. Some of the most common reasons you may be asked to obtain an SR-22 are:

• You were convicted of a DUI or caught operating a vehicle while intoxicated
• You were convicted of driving while under the influence of drugs
• You were caught driving without a license, driving with an expired or revoked license
• You have been caught driving without insurance, whether it's lapsed or you simply never bought a policy
• You have been convicted of multiple traffic violations or episodes of reckless driving

Even if you don't own a vehicle, you could still be required to carry an SR-22. You still need to show proof of financial responsibility in order to drive any vehicle, otherwise, the state will revoke your driving privileges.

What It Means To You

An SR-22 is not an insurance policy, but it does affect how much you'll pay for insurance. Typically, the SR-22 itself only costs around $30, more or less. It must be filed with your state's department of insurance before you can regain your driving privileges. Once on file, you must maintain the certificate for a specified period of time, and also maintain insurance coverage, even if you don't own a vehicle.

If you are forced to carry an SR-22, your insurer may refuse to insure you, considering you to be too risky to insure. If they do allow you to keep your policy with them, you almost certainly will face higher premiums as a result of your needing the SR-22. The bottom line is, if you choose to drive in a risky manner, you will be asked to pay more for your insurance company to cover you while you are driving.

Cheap SR-22 Insurance

You may have seen insurers offering cheap SR-22 insurance in some states, but before you rush to apply for a policy, you should take the time to do your research. Some companies are hoping that you won't know enough about the way an SR-22 works and be encouraged to take on their policy out of fear. The truth is, many insurers do provide insurance coverage to those with an SR-22, so be sure to get several quotes before choosing a policy.

Being forced to carry an SR-22 isn't the end of the world, but it can certainly make affordable driving difficult during the years that you are responsible for having one. Consider the certificate a learning experience, and move forward with responsible driving practices in future.

• Drive safely, and limit your risk of accidents.
• Never drive while drinking or on drugs.
• Don't be tempted to drive without insurance, even if it is expensive.

Nothing will help you save more money on your car insurance premiums than safe driving, so once your required SR-22 is finished, make sure you continue to practice responsible driving and avoid any of the activities that cost you your license in the first place. Look at this for more information.

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