SR-22 for a suspended driver's license
With a driver's license suspension comes a Certificate of Financial Responsibility.
If your driver's license has been suspended, your state Department of Motor Vehicles may require you to obtain an SR-22 form, also known as a Certificate of Financial Responsibility (COFR).
What is an SR-22 or Certificate of Financial Responsibility?
An SR-22 verifies that an individual has vehicle insurance that meets the coverage required by the state for reinstatement of driving privileges. The COFR is sometimes known as SR-22 insurance, but it is important to clarify that it is not a type of auto insurance. It is a document that an insurance company can provide to the state that requires it and a type of proof of insurance.
The requirement to have an SR-22 is usually associated with:
- Multiple traffic offenses
- DUIs, DWIs or other serious moving violations
- Driver’s license suspension or revocation
- Violations for failure to maintain the mandatory insurance coverage required in your state
If you are required to get an SR-22, the traffic court where you appeared or the Department of Motor Vehicles should notify you by mail. The insurance company will charge a fee for providing an SR-22 certificate on your behalf. The amount of the fee may differ by state and additional fees may be charged.
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Typical SR-22 terms
Terms and requirements vary by state, but generally, you must retain both the SR-22 and your auto insurance policy for approximately three years. To ensure your SR-22 remains in effect until you have met the requirements for your state, your insurance policy must remain active. If your insurance policy lapses, your insurer is required by law to notify the Department of Motor Vehicles office. Your license will be suspended until your insurance has been reinstated. Then once you have met your SR-22 obligations for the prescribed amount of time, your SR-22 status will be removed.
Contact your insurance agent for more SR-22 information, and to determine the SR-22 and liability insurance requirements in your state. Your insurance agent may be able to assist you in obtaining auto insurance and the SR-22 form through an insurance provider in your area.
