Can't Afford SR-22 Insurance?
SR-22 is expensive, but there are ways to reduce costs. Here are your options when money is tight—and what happens if you don't get coverage.
The Cheapest SR-22 Option: Non-Owner Policy
If you don't own a car, a non-owner SR-22 policy can cost as little as $200-500/year— a fraction of standard SR-22 costs.
Ways to Reduce SR-22 Costs
Options for making SR-22 more affordable
Non-Owner SR-22 Policy
30-50% cheaper
If you don't own a car, a non-owner SR-22 costs significantly less—often $200-800/year vs $1,500-5,000+ for standard policies.
Requirement: Must not own a vehicle or have regular access to one
Learn moreShop Non-Standard Insurers
20-50% vs standard
Companies like Dairyland, Progressive, and The General often have lower rates than standard insurers for SR-22 drivers.
Requirement: Get at least 5 quotes to find the best rate
Learn moreMinimum Coverage Only
15-30% cheaper
You only need liability coverage for SR-22. Dropping comprehensive/collision on an older car can significantly reduce premiums.
Requirement: Must meet state minimum limits
Learn morePayment Plans
Spreads cost
Many insurers offer monthly payment plans. While there may be fees, it makes coverage more manageable.
Requirement: May require automatic payment setup
Higher Deductible
10-25% cheaper
Increasing your deductible from $500 to $1,000 or more reduces your premium, though you'll pay more if you have a claim.
Requirement: Need savings to cover potential deductible
What Happens If You Don't Get SR-22?
The consequences of not filing SR-22
License Remains Suspended
Without SR-22, you cannot legally drive. Your license stays suspended until you file.
Driving Without Insurance Charges
If caught driving without SR-22, you face additional criminal charges on top of your original offense.
Extended SR-22 Period
Delaying your SR-22 filing doesn't pause the clock—it just delays when you can start counting down.
Employment Consequences
Many jobs require a valid license. Without SR-22, you can't reinstate and may lose job opportunities.
Compounding Fines
Court fines, reinstatement fees, and penalties may continue to accumulate while you delay.
Prioritizing Your Payments
When money is tight, here's how to think about SR-22 vs other expenses
Consider This
- Can you work/earn income without driving?
- Will delaying SR-22 cost more long-term?
- Are fines/fees accumulating while you wait?
- Can a non-owner policy get you driving again cheaply?
Minimum to Get Driving
- Non-owner SR-22:$200-500/year
- Filing fee:$15-50 one-time
- Reinstatement:$20-475 (state varies)
- Minimum total:~$300-600 to start
Potential Assistance Resources
Organizations that may be able to help
Legal Aid Societies
May help negotiate payment plans for court fines, freeing up money for insurance.
Who qualifies: Low-income individuals
Public Defender Follow-Up
If you had a public defender, they may know of local resources or payment assistance.
Who qualifies: Those who used public defenders
Community Action Agencies
Some offer emergency financial assistance that could help with insurance payments.
Who qualifies: Low-income families
State Insurance Programs
Assigned risk pools guarantee coverage, though rates aren't necessarily lower.
Who qualifies: Anyone unable to find private coverage
Contact 211
Dial 211 (or visit 211.org) to connect with local assistance programs. They can help identify resources in your area for financial assistance, transportation alternatives, and social services.
While You Save for SR-22
Transportation alternatives if you can't get coverage immediately
Rideshares
Uber, Lyft, or local taxi services. Calculate monthly cost vs SR-22— it may actually be cheaper to get insured.
Public Transit
Buses, trains, or light rail where available. Monthly passes are often much cheaper than driving costs.
Carpooling
Arrange rides with coworkers, friends, or family. Offer to contribute to gas costs—still cheaper than SR-22 violations.
Do NOT Drive Without SR-22
Driving without SR-22 when required is illegal and makes everything worse:
- •Additional criminal charges (driving with suspended license)
- •Vehicle impoundment and additional fees
- •Extended SR-22 requirement period
- •Personal liability if you cause an accident (no coverage)
Related Guides
Sources
Cost-saving options verified against insurance industry data and state regulations.
Last updated: January 8, 2026
Find the Cheapest SR-22 Option
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