How to Get the Cheapest SR-22 Insurance
SR-22 doesn't have to break the bank. These strategies can reduce your premiums by 20-50% compared to the first quote you get.
The #1 Way to Save: Compare Quotes
Rates for the same driver can vary by 200%+ between companies. Always get at least 5 quotes before choosing a policy.
12 Ways to Lower Your SR-22 Costs
Ranked by potential savings impact
Shop Non-Standard Insurers First
potential savings
Companies like Dairyland, Progressive, and The General specialize in high-risk drivers and often beat standard insurers on price.
Pro tip: Get quotes from at least 3-5 high-risk specialists before checking standard insurers.
Compare at Least 5 Quotes
potential savings
Rates vary dramatically between companies for the same driver. One insurer might charge $1,500/year while another charges $4,500.
Pro tip: Use comparison tools and call companies directly for the most accurate quotes.
Choose Minimum Coverage Limits
potential savings
While experts recommend higher limits, sticking to state minimums during your SR-22 period can significantly reduce premiums.
Pro tip: Review your assets—if you have little to protect, minimums may be sufficient.
Increase Your Deductible
potential savings
A higher deductible means lower premiums. Consider raising from $500 to $1,000 or more if you can afford out-of-pocket repairs.
Pro tip: Keep enough savings to cover your deductible in case of an accident.
Bundle Policies
potential savings
Combining auto with renters, homeowners, or umbrella insurance often yields multi-policy discounts, even for high-risk drivers.
Pro tip: Ask specifically about SR-22 bundling—not all companies offer it.
Ask for All Available Discounts
potential savings
Many discounts still apply with SR-22: defensive driving courses, good student, low mileage, paid-in-full, automatic payment.
Pro tip: Make a list and ask your agent about each one specifically.
Consider Non-Owner SR-22
potential savings
If you don't own a car, non-owner SR-22 policies are significantly cheaper since there's no vehicle to insure.
Pro tip: You can still drive borrowed cars and rentals with this coverage.
Pay Annually Instead of Monthly
potential savings
Many insurers charge fees for monthly payments. Paying 6 or 12 months upfront can save money overall.
Pro tip: Make sure you can maintain coverage—lapses are expensive.
Maintain a Clean Record Going Forward
potential savings
Every clean month helps. Some insurers reduce rates after 6-12 months without incidents.
Pro tip: Ask when your rate will be reviewed and what triggers reductions.
Drop Unnecessary Coverage
potential savings
If your car is older/low value, consider dropping comprehensive and collision coverage. You're only required to have liability for SR-22.
Pro tip: Calculate if coverage cost exceeds potential payout based on car value.
Check State Programs
potential savings
Some states have assigned risk pools or programs for drivers who can't find coverage. These aren't always cheapest but guarantee access.
Pro tip: Arizona uses WAAIP; other states have similar programs.
Re-shop Every 6 Months
potential savings
Your risk profile changes over time. After 6-12 months of clean driving, you may qualify for better rates elsewhere.
Pro tip: Set a calendar reminder to compare quotes twice a year.
Cheapest SR-22 Options by State
Which insurers typically offer the best rates in each state
| State | Typically Cheapest | Avg Savings vs Standard |
|---|---|---|
| Texas | Progressive, Dairyland, Bristol West | 25-40% |
| Arizona | Progressive, The General, Dairyland | 20-35% |
| Georgia | Dairyland, Progressive, Direct Auto | 20-40% |
| Colorado | Progressive, GEICO (select profiles) | 15-30% |
| Ohio | Progressive, Dairyland, The General | 20-35% |
| Tennessee | Progressive, Dairyland, Direct Auto | 20-35% |
| North Carolina | NC Reinsurance Facility (NCRF) | Regulated rates |
| South Carolina | Progressive, Dairyland, The General | 20-35% |
Results vary by individual profile. Always compare quotes for your specific situation.
Don't Own a Car? Non-Owner SR-22 Saves 30-50%
If you don't own a vehicle, a non-owner SR-22 policy is your cheapest option. You get the coverage needed to satisfy your state requirement and reinstate your license, plus liability protection when driving borrowed or rented vehicles.
$200-500
Typical annual cost
30-50%
Less than owner policy
Same filing
SR-22 requirement met
Costly Mistakes to Avoid
Errors that make SR-22 more expensive than it needs to be
Taking the First Quote
The first company you call might charge 2-3x more than competitors. Never accept a quote without comparing others.
Letting Coverage Lapse
A coverage gap restarts your SR-22 clock and often results in higher rates when you reinstate. The "savings" aren't worth it.
Over-Insuring
You only need liability coverage for SR-22. Adding comprehensive/collision on an old car might cost more than the car is worth.
Not Asking for Discounts
Insurers don't always volunteer discounts. You have to ask specifically about each one—even SR-22 drivers can qualify for many.
SR-22 Discount Checklist
Ask about each of these when getting quotes
Long-Term Savings Strategy
How to reduce costs over your SR-22 period
Month 1-6
Find the cheapest initial policy. Focus on minimum coverage and non-standard insurers. Avoid any additional violations.
Month 6-12
Re-shop your policy. Six months of clean driving may qualify you for better rates. Compare at least 5 new quotes.
Year 2-3
Continue re-shopping every 6 months. As your record ages, standard insurers may become competitive. Rates should drop significantly.
Related Guides
Sources
Savings estimates based on industry rate filings, carrier comparisons, and customer survey data from 2024-2025.
Last updated: January 8, 2026
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