You have received a letter from your state's Department of Motor Vehicles stating that your driver's license has been suspended and you need to obtain an SR22 Form before it can be reinstated. You've got questions - Why me? What is this? How much will it cost? What do I have to do to get an SR22? I don't own a car, so now what? I'm moving - will it move with me? We've got answers!

Why Me?

An SR22 filing or form is required by anyone who has had their driver's license suspended. Licenses can be suspended for a variety of reasons. The most common are: more minor moving violations in one year than permitted by law; uninsured accidents; drunk driving or other driving under the influence violations; suspensions from unpaid fines or parking violations; and failure to comply with other Motor Vehicle laws or regulations. Each state's laws and regulations differ, so your particular case may not be represented here. Let's suffice it to say you've done something you shouldn't have and your state's DMV has considered you unworthy of having legal driving privileges.

What is an SR22 Filing or Form?

An SR22 filing or form is an insurance policy form issued by an insurance company that simply states you have purchased the state's minimum required liability insurance coverage. The insurance company informs your state's DMV that you are indeed covered by the minimum required liability insurance AND the company will inform the DMV should you cancel the coverage, terminate the policy or allow it to lapse. The SR22 insurance allows you to have your license reinstated once it has been issued, as it guarantees the state that you are an insured driver and that the insurance coverage will remain in effect.

How much will an SR22 Policy cost me?

Each insurance company is different, and so are their prices. Each case is handled on an individual basis, and that can affect the cost of an SR22 insurance policy as well. Typically, an SR22 policy will cost you between $15 and $30 extra.

How do I go about getting an SR22 Policy?

You have to purchase at least the state's minimum liability insurance on the vehicle(s) you own. The price for this is based largely on your driving record and the reason for your license suspension. Also taken into consideration is the number of years you've been driving, where you live, what kind of vehicle you own, and your age. Expect to pay more for your minimum coverage than you did before because you are now considered a "high risk" case, having had your driver's license suspended. Once you purchase the insurance policy, you'll need to purchase the SR22 Policy separately.

I don't own a car - so now what?

You can purchase "non-owners" liability coverage auto insurance. Your state will have a set minimum for this coverage just as it does for owners. Again, the price will depend largely on your age, experience, where you live, and why your license was suspended. SR22 non-owner's policies do not cover the vehicle, so make sure that any vehicle you borrow to drive has current insurance coverage.

I'm moving - will my SR22 Policy move with me?

In short, yes. You'll need to purchase new SR22 insurance because typically, your new state must be kept informed of your SR22 requirement. There may be new minimum standards that you'll have to adhere to, so your insurance premiums may increase. If your new state doesn't require SR22 insurance, you'll still need to fulfill the requirements for your former residence to avoid suspension of your license, even if you buy new insurance in your new state of residence. Not maintaining your SR22 insurance can cause your new state's driver's license to be revoked.

How long do I have to keep my SR22 Policy?

Most SR22 filings must be kept for 1 to 3 years. The term of your SR22 coverage depends on your state and your suspending offense. To revoke an SR22 policy, the insurance company will have to file an SR26 form stating that the terms of your SR22 have been met. An SR26 must be filed within 20 days of the termination of your SR22 requirement.

Losing your license and being required to carry an SR22 policy aren't the end of the world. Many insurance companies offer SR22 coverage, and obtaining it isn't difficult. Finding an affordable insurance policy after having your license suspended isn't that hard to do, either. With your new policy and your SR22 in place, you'll be back on the roads in no time.