SR-22 & High-Risk Auto Insurance

What is an SR-22?

An SR-22 is not a type of insurance: it is a certificate your insurer files with the state to prove you carry at least the minimum required liability coverage. People call it "SR-22 insurance" because it is attached to an auto policy.

While the state requires your SR-22, the insurer must report it if the policy is canceled or lapses. That is why it is key to keep it active without interruptions for the entire required period.

Who needs an SR-22?

The state or a judge usually requires it after a serious violation or to reinstate a license. The most common cases are:

• DUI or driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
• Driving uninsured or having an accident without insurance.
• License suspended or revoked for accumulating points.
• Serious violations such as reckless driving.
• An unpaid court judgment from an accident.

Types of SR-22: owner, non-owner and operator

If you own a vehicle, you need an owner SR-22 on your auto policy. If you do not own a car but must reinstate your license, there is the non-owner SR-22, which covers your liability when you drive a borrowed vehicle and usually costs less.

The operator-owner SR-22 combines both: it covers your vehicles and also when you drive others. We help you choose the right type so the state accepts it the first time.

SR-22 in the 7 states we serve

Rules vary by state. Always confirm your exact requirement with your state licensing agency; we file the correct certificate.

• Georgia: the Department of Driver Services (DDS) may require an SR-22 to reinstate your license.
• Florida: uses the SR-22 for most cases and the FR-44 after a DUI, with higher liability limits.
• Texas, Tennessee, Alabama, South Carolina and Indiana: accept the SR-22 as proof of financial responsibility.
• If you move, you usually must keep the SR-22 for the state that required it until the period ends.

How much does an SR-22 cost and how to save?

Filing the certificate usually has a small fee. What raises the price most is the violation behind the requirement: a DUI or driving uninsured classifies you as a high-risk driver. Prices vary widely between insurers, which is why comparing is the best way to save.

• Compare several carriers that write high-risk drivers (we do it for you).
• If you do not own a car, ask about the non-owner SR-22, which is usually cheaper.
• Pay on time and avoid cancellations: a lapse can restart the period.
• Take a defensive driving course if your state recognizes it.

High-risk (non-standard) auto insurance

Not every high-risk driver needs an SR-22. Many insurers decline or overcharge drivers with accidents, tickets, little experience or a coverage lapse. Non-standard insurers specialize in these profiles.

Over time, driving without incidents and keeping your policy active, your price drops and you can move to a standard insurer. We review your policy at every renewal to find those savings.

How to get your SR-22 with TOP Insurance

Call or message us with the letter from the state or court, your license (or whatever information you have) and vehicle details if you own one. We compare insurers, activate the policy and the insurer files the SR-22 electronically with the state.