Learning All About Insurance Policies
About Me
Learning All About Insurance Policies

My name is Eric Bowman, and if you have questions about insurance, this is the blog you need to read. I was always confused when I had to purchase insurance. I would either end up paying for insurance I didn't need or I wouldn't buy the right policy. I finally decided that I was going to learn all I could about insurance policies so that I would understand exactly what I was buying. Now, I am completely satisfied with my insurance and the coverage is just what I need. I realized that there are others who are probably just as confused as I was, so I am writing this blog to help others get the best insurance for their needs and budget. I hope that my blog gives you the information you need to make the right choices when purchasing insurance.

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Learning All About Insurance Policies

Do You Need An SR22?

Anthony Rhodes

If you have recently been in court on certain charges, the judge may have told you that you need an SR22. But exactly what is this, where do you get it from, and how long do you have to have it? Knowing the answers to these questions and following the court's order could keep you out of additional trouble.

What Is An SR22?

While people refer to an SR22 as insurance, it is not insurance in the traditional sense of the word. It does not offer any type of coverage but is a certificate of financial responsibility. It ensures you have an auto insurance policy containing liability insurance. 

Issued by the insurance company and filed with the state, an SR22, also called an FR44 in some states, is only required by certain drivers. Most drivers requiring an SR22 are charged with one of the following offenses.

  • Drivers convicted of DUI or DWI
  • Drivers convicted with no insurance in at-fault accidents 
  • Drivers convicted of severe and or repeat traffic offenses
  • Drivers with multiple driving points
  • Drivers attempting to get their suspended or revoked license reinstated

Although these are some of the most common offenses, the court can attach an SR22 requirement to other court orders. It identifies you as a high-risk driver.

Once the court orders an SR22 requirement, you must have this certificate on file for a certain period. This period varies by state but most states require a minimum of three years. The state can extend your time if you have additional violations during this time. 

There are a few states that do not require an SR22. These states are the following:

  • Delaware
  • Kentucky
  • Maryland
  • Minnesota
  • New Jersey
  • New Mexico
  • New York
  • Oklahoma
  • Pennsylvania
  • Rhode Island
  • West Virginia

Massachusetts only requires an SR22 when you are under a court order from another state. 

Who Sells SR22?

Many insurance companies offer SR22 coverage both in person and online, with two associated costs. In addition to the increased price of your auto insurance, an SR22 also requires a filing fee that typically ranges from $15-$50

What Does An SR22 Cost?

Because an SR22 signifies that you are a high-risk driver, your auto insurance will increase substantially. The associated increase will vary by state and is based on your driving record. While shopping around may produce cost savings, it will still be significantly higher than you are used to paying.

For more information about SR22 insurance, contact a local company.


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