What is an SR-22 in Georgia?
An SR-22 is not an insurance policy, but rather a Certificate of Financial Responsibility that an auto insurer files on your behalf with the Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS). It verifies that you carry an active auto liability policy that satisfies the required limits. This certificate may be required to reinstate or maintain your driving privileges following certain offenses, such as a DUI conviction or certain no-insurance violations.
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If a court or the Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) has told you that you need an "SR-22," it is normal to feel confused. The good news is that an SR-22 is not a type of insurance and it is not a fine — it is simply a certificate your insurer files to prove you carry at least the required liability coverage. This guide explains what it is, when it is required after a DUI (the term used in Georgia; other states may use DWI), and how to keep the cost under control. Explore our auto insurance options or check the insurance glossary for terms like SR-22.
What is an SR-22?
An SR-22 is a Certificate of Financial Responsibility. Your insurance company files it electronically with the Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) to confirm that your auto policy meets the required liability limits. The minimum limits depend on the reason for the filing. For drivers without a DUI conviction, the state minimum is 25/50/25: $25,000 for injury to one person, $50,000 per accident, and $25,000 for property damage. However, under SB 121 (effective May 14, 2025), drivers with a first DUI conviction must carry at least 50/100/50 liability coverage, and drivers with a second or subsequent DUI conviction must carry at least 100/300/100 liability coverage, for three years from the conviction date.
When do you need one after a DUI?
After a DUI conviction in Georgia (Georgia law uses the term DUI; DWI is used in other states), when DDS requires it to reinstate your driving privileges.
After a second or subsequent conviction for driving without proof of insurance, when DDS may require an SR-22A filing for three years.
In some cases, after certain license suspensions or other violations when ordered by DDS or a court.
How long must you keep an SR-22?
The filing period is set by DDS or the court and depends on the specific reason for the requirement. For a DUI-related suspension, DDS requires the SR-22 to be filed and maintained for three years from the conviction date. For a second or subsequent conviction for no proof of insurance, DDS requires an SR-22A for three years. During that time your policy must never lapse — if it does, your insurer notifies DDS and your license can be suspended or cancelled. Keeping continuous coverage is the single most important thing you can do. For reinstatement requirements specific to your case, check with DDS (DDS 2 GO online services or your local office).
Why does an SR-22 raise your rate?
The SR-22 filing fee itself is small. The higher cost comes from being classified as a high-risk driver after the underlying violation. Working with an independent agency helps because we can compare options from several carriers, including non-standard carriers that specialize in these situations, to find an alternative that fits your needs and budget.
How to lower the cost
Compare several high-risk carriers — rates for the same driver vary widely.
Keep continuous coverage with no lapse.
Ask about defensive-driving and payment-in-full discounts.
Consider a non-owner SR-22 policy if you do not own a car.
Talk to a bilingual agent
At Top Insurance LLC we compare options from several carriers to find an alternative that fits your situation and budget, even in difficult cases. Call us at 1-877-579-0587 or request a free quote and we will guide you step by step in English or Spanish.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an SR-22 in Georgia?
An SR-22 is not an insurance policy, but rather a Certificate of Financial Responsibility that an auto insurer files on your behalf with the Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS). It verifies that you carry an active auto liability policy that satisfies the required limits. This certificate may be required to reinstate or maintain your driving privileges following certain offenses, such as a DUI conviction or certain no-insurance violations.
What are the minimum liability limits required for a Georgia SR-22?
The minimum liability limits required for an SR-22 in Georgia depend on the reason for the filing. For drivers without a DUI conviction, the state minimum is 25/50/25 liability coverage: $25,000 for bodily injury per person, $50,000 for bodily injury per accident, and $25,000 for property damage. Under SB 121 (effective May 14, 2025), drivers with a first DUI conviction must carry at least 50/100/50 liability coverage, and drivers with a second or subsequent DUI conviction must carry at least 100/300/100 liability coverage, for three years from the conviction date. Your carrier will certify these limits directly to the Georgia Department of Driver Services.
When is an SR-22 required after a DUI conviction?
An SR-22 may be required when a driver seeks to reinstate a suspended or revoked driver's license following a DUI conviction. (In Georgia, the offense is called DUI; DWI is the term used in other states.) The Georgia Department of Driver Services requires this filing for certain DUI-related suspensions to ensure that drivers maintain continuous financial responsibility before regaining driving privileges. Failing to provide the certificate will prevent the restoration of your legal driving privileges.
What circumstances other than a DUI require an SR-22 filing?
The Georgia Department of Driver Services or a court may require an SR-22 (or SR-22A) after a second or subsequent conviction for driving without proof of insurance. It may also be required in some cases after certain license suspensions or other violations. The specific requirements depend on the reason for the filing. In each scenario, the certificate serves as proof of future financial compliance.
Can any insurance company file an SR-22 for high-risk drivers?
Not all auto insurance carriers write policies for high-risk drivers or submit SR-22 filings on behalf of their policyholders. You must notify an insurer that you require this certificate so they can issue coverage in the non-standard market and submit the form to the Georgia Department of Driver Services. If you already have a policy, your carrier may choose to file it or cancel coverage depending on their underwriting guidelines.
TOP Insurance LLC is a licensed independent insurance agency serving Georgia, Florida, South Carolina, Tennessee, Alabama, Indiana and Texas. Our bilingual team of licensed agents compares options from several carriers to find an alternative that fits your needs and budget. With offices in Duluth, Lawrenceville and Gainesville, GA, we specialize in auto, home, life, health and commercial insurance for the Hispanic community and all residents. Some carriers may offer options for applicants with an ITIN, consular ID, foreign passport or foreign license; required documentation and eligibility depend on each carrier.
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