SR‑22 Insurance in Texas Explained

Key Takeaways: SR-22 Insurance

SR-22 is a Certification, Not Insurance: An SR-22 in Texas is a document filed by your insurance company to prove you carry the state’s minimum required insurance coverage, typically needed after severe driving violations.

Increased Costs: While the filing fee for an SR-22 is relatively low ($15-$25), the more significant financial impact comes from higher insurance premiums due to the infractions that led to the SR-22 requirement. If you or someone you know needs help with these filings use our quote comparison tool in order to obtain a quote!

Strict Compliance Required: Maintaining continuous insurance coverage is crucial when you have an SR-22. Any lapse in payment or coverage could lead to further license suspension or revocation.

Understanding SR-22 Insurance in Texas: What You Need to Know

Even the most cautious drivers can find themselves facing a situation where their driving privileges are suspended or revoked. In Texas, if you’re in this position, you might be required to obtain an SR-22, a form that proves you have the necessary insurance coverage. This article will guide you through what SR-22 insurance is, who might need it, and how it can affect your insurance costs. If you or someone you know needs help with these filings use our quote comparison tool in order to obtain a quote!

What is SR-22 Insurance in Texas?

In Texas, an SR-22, also known as a Certificate of Financial Responsibility, is a document that your insurance provider files with the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). It serves as proof that you have car insurance that meets the state’s minimum liability requirements:

• $30,000 for bodily injury liability per person
• $60,000 for bodily injury liability per accident
• $25,000 for property damage liability per accident

It’s crucial to understand that an SR-22 is not insurance itself but rather a certification that you have the required coverage. This certification is typically required after severe driving violations or repeated infractions.

Who Needs SR-22 Insurance?

Not every driver in Texas needs an SR-22. However, certain infractions can lead to the state requiring you to file one. These include:

• Driving Under the Influence (DUI): If you’re convicted of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, an SR-22 may be required to reinstate your license.
• Uninsured Accidents: Being involved in an accident without carrying the required insurance can result in an SR-22 mandate.
• Multiple Traffic Violations: Accumulating several traffic tickets within a short period can trigger the need for an SR-22.
• License Suspension or Revocation: If your license has been suspended or revoked, you may need an SR-22 to get it reinstated.
• Serious Driving Offenses: Offenses like reckless driving or fleeing the scene of an accident may also require an SR-22.

Types of SR-22 Forms in Texas

In Texas, there are two main types of SR-22 forms, each serving different situations:

1. SR-22: This is the standard form, required for drivers whose licenses have been suspended due to accidents, multiple violations, or driving without insurance.
2. SR-22a: This form is more stringent and is typically required for habitual offenders. To file an SR-22a, insurance companies often require the driver to pay at least six months of premiums upfront.

How Long Do I have to maintain my SR-22?

In Texas, you are generally required to maintain your SR-22 for two years. This period starts from the date your SR-22 is filed with the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS). During this time, it’s crucial to keep your insurance coverage active without any lapses. If your insurance policy is canceled or lapses during the required period, your insurance company is obligated to notify the state, which could lead to additional penalties, including the suspension of your driver’s license.

Costs Associated with SR-22 Insurance

Obtaining an SR-22 in Texas typically costs between $15 and $25 for the filing fee. However, the real financial impact comes from the higher insurance premiums you’ll likely face. Because SR-22 is often required after severe violations, your driving record will show these infractions, leading to increased insurance rates. Additionally, you may need to pay a $100 license reinstatement fee to the Texas Department of Public Safety. If you or someone you know needs help with these filings use our quote comparison tool in order to obtain a quote!

It’s also essential to maintain your insurance without any lapses over the required period, usually two years. Any lapse in coverage could result in another license suspension or revocation.

Non-Owner SR-22 Insurance

If you don’t own a vehicle but need to reinstate your driver’s license, you can still obtain an SR-22. In this case, you would purchase a non-owner car insurance policy, which provides liability coverage for any vehicle you drive. Once you have this policy, your insurer can file the SR-22 with the state, allowing you to reinstate your license.

Conclusion: SR-22 Insurance

Navigating the requirements of SR-22 insurance in Texas can be challenging, especially when faced with the complexities of the legal system and increased insurance costs. However, understanding your obligations and maintaining continuous insurance coverage can help you reinstate your driving privileges and avoid further complications. If you or someone you know needs help with these filings use our quote comparison tool in order to obtain a quote!

FAQ’s SR-22 Insurance In Texas

What happens if I let my SR-22 insurance lapse in Texas?

• If your SR-22 insurance lapses during the required period, your insurance company will notify the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS). This could result in the suspension or revocation of your driver’s license, and you may be required to file a new SR-22 and restart the two-year period.

Can I get an SR-22 if I don’t own a car in Texas?

• Yes, if you don’t own a car but need an SR-22, you can obtain a non-owner SR-22 policy. This type of insurance provides liability coverage for any vehicle you drive and allows you to meet the state’s SR-22 requirements.

Will my insurance rates go down after I no longer need an SR-22 in Texas?

• After the two-year SR-22 requirement period ends, and if you maintain a clean driving record, your insurance rates may decrease. However, the extent of the reduction will depend on various factors, including your overall driving history and the policies of your insurance provider.