How to Get SR-22 Insurance
Getting SR-22 is straightforward: buy an insurance policy, have the insurer file the certificate, then pay your reinstatement fees. Most people can complete this in one day.
Same-Day SR-22 Is Possible
With electronic filing, many insurers can have your SR-22 on file with the state within hours. Ask specifically for electronic/same-day filing when you call.
5 Steps to Get SR-22 Insurance
Follow this process to get your SR-22 filed and your license reinstated
Contact an Insurance Provider
Call your current insurer or shop for a new policy. Not all insurers offer SR-22—you may need a "non-standard" or high-risk carrier.
- Your current insurer may drop you or increase rates significantly
- Non-standard insurers specialize in SR-22 and often have better rates
- Get quotes from at least 3-5 companies before deciding
Purchase a Policy with SR-22
Buy an auto liability policy that meets your state's minimum coverage requirements. The SR-22 is attached to this policy.
- Ensure coverage meets state minimums (varies by state)
- Ask about payment plans—some require 6-month prepayment (SR-22A)
- Confirm the policy effective date matches your reinstatement needs
Insurer Files SR-22 with the State
CriticalYour insurance company files the SR-22 certificate directly with your state DMV. You cannot file it yourself.
- Electronic filing: Usually same-day to 24 hours
- Paper filing: Can take 7-21 business days
- Ask for electronic filing if you need fast reinstatement
Pay Reinstatement Fees
Once your SR-22 is on file, pay any required reinstatement fees to the DMV to get your license back.
- Fees range from $20-475 depending on state and offense
- Some states allow online payment
- You may need to visit DMV in person for certain offenses
Maintain Continuous Coverage
CriticalKeep your SR-22 policy active for the entire required period (typically 2-3 years). Any lapse triggers immediate suspension.
- Set up automatic payments to avoid accidental lapses
- If switching insurers, ensure no gap in coverage
- Your insurer must notify the state if coverage lapses (SR-26)
Documents You'll Need
Have these ready before calling insurance companies
Driver's License Number
Even if suspended, you'll need your license number
Court Documents
Conviction paperwork showing SR-22 requirement
DMV Suspension Notice
Official notice specifying reinstatement requirements
Payment Method
For insurance premium and filing fee
SR-22 Filing Timeline by State
How long it takes for your SR-22 to be on file with the DMV
| State | Electronic Filing | Paper Filing |
|---|---|---|
| Texas | 24 hours | Up to 21 days |
| Arizona | Same day | 7-14 days |
| Georgia | 24-48 hours | 7-14 days |
| Colorado | 24 hours | 7-14 days |
| Ohio | 24-48 hours | 7-14 days |
| Tennessee | Same day | 7-14 days |
| North Carolina | N/A (DL-123) | In person/fax |
| South Carolina | 24-48 hours | 7-14 days |
Always ask your insurer for electronic filing if you need fast reinstatement.
North Carolina Uses DL-123, Not SR-22
North Carolina doesn't use SR-22 for in-state offenses. Instead, they use the DL-123 Certificate of Insurance, which has a different process:
- •DL-123 is a "snapshot" proof of insurance, valid only 30 days
- •Your agent can fax it directly to the NCDMV
- •The FS-1/FS-4 electronic system monitors ongoing compliance
- •New minimum limits: $50,000/$100,000/$50,000 effective July 2025
Where to Get SR-22 Insurance
Your options for obtaining an SR-22 policy
Your Current Insurer
Start here—they may add SR-22 to your existing policy. However, many standard insurers will drop you or significantly raise rates.
+ Convenient if they accept you
- May drop you or raise rates 100%+
Non-Standard Insurers
Companies that specialize in high-risk drivers. Often have the best rates for SR-22 because this is their core business.
+ Often lower rates than standard insurers
+ Experienced with SR-22 filing process
Insurance Agents/Brokers
Independent agents can shop multiple companies for you. Useful if you want someone to handle the process and find the best rate.
+ Shops multiple carriers for you
- May charge additional fees
Common SR-22 Mistakes to Avoid
Errors that can delay reinstatement or cost you money
Waiting Too Long
The longer you wait, the more reinstatement fees and penalties accumulate. Get your SR-22 filed as soon as you're eligible.
Wrong Coverage Limits
Your policy must meet your state's minimum limits. Getting coverage that's too low means starting over.
Not Confirming Filing
Don't assume your insurer filed the SR-22. Ask for confirmation and verify with your state DMV.
Letting Coverage Lapse
Even one day without coverage triggers an SR-26 notification to the state. Set up automatic payments immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get SR-22 the same day?
Yes, many insurers offer same-day electronic filing. Call in the morning and specifically ask for same-day or next-day electronic filing. Some companies can have your SR-22 on file with the state within hours.
Can I file SR-22 myself?
No. The SR-22 must be filed by a licensed insurance company in your state. You cannot submit the form directly to the DMV yourself.
What if my current insurer won't file SR-22?
Many standard insurers don't offer SR-22 or will drop you after a DUI. Contact non-standard insurers like Progressive, Dairyland, or The General who specialize in high-risk coverage.
Do I need a car to get SR-22?
No. You can get a "non-owner SR-22" policy if you don't own a vehicle. This provides liability coverage when driving cars you don't own and satisfies your state's SR-22 requirement.
Related Guides
Sources
Filing process and timeline information verified against state DMV publications and insurance industry data for 2025-2026.
- Texas DPS, Arizona MVD, Georgia DDS (GEACS system), Colorado DMV, Ohio BMV, Tennessee DOSHS, NCDMV official publications.
Last updated: January 8, 2026
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