An SR-22 (sometimes referred to as a certificate of insurance or a financial responsibility filing) is a document issued by an insurance company. This document is a guarantee to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) that you have obtained the required minimum liability coverage required by the State. The insurance company will notify the DMV if the insurance coverage should laspe.

Every company is different, some companies will surcharge on a percentage, others have a flat fee for filing or don’t charge for the filing at all. What will mostly effect the rate for insurance is the reason for needing the SR-22. Operating under the influence and/or Reckless Driving are just two examples of needing an SR-22.

In states that require SR-22’s, usually you have to maintain continuous insurance coverage with an SR-22 for 3 years (though it can range between 2 and 5 years depending on the state and the reason for the SR-22). You will need to verify exactly how long with the DMV.

If you cancel for non-payment or any other reason while the State still requires you to carry an SR-22, the insurance company will notify the DMV by filing an SR-26 (this cancels the SR-22). This can and most like will result in your drivers license being suspended.

You may received a letter from the DMV notifying you of a future suspension date. When payments are sent in late, the insurance company has already begun the process of notifying the DMV with the SR-26. Once the insurance company receives the payment they will refile the SR-22. It will be your responsibility to verify it was received by the DMV prior to the date of suspension.