What Is SR-22 Coverage, and When Is It Required?

If you’re guilty of a DUI (Driving Under the Influence) or driving without insurance violation, the state may require you to provide an SR-22. 

SR-22 is a certificate that indicates a driver has acquired the minimum auto insurance coverage.

You’ll need to apply for the SR-22 certificate to adhere to the state or court’s direction. The SR-22, issued to high-risk drivers, is also called the ‘’Certificate of Financial Responsibility’.’

Although SR-22 coverage comes at a cost, it protects drivers, passengers, and other road users. If you’re looking for SR-22 on short notice, consider speaking to an experienced car insurance provider.

Here’s what you need to know.

When Is SR-22 Coverage Required?

An SR-22 is a certificate that assures the court or police officer that you’re carrying minimum liability insurance. A state officer or a judge can order anyone who has committed a DUI offense to seek SR-22 coverage.

Here are the common reasons why you might be required to get an SR-22 include:

1. After causing a significant number of road accidents
2. Failure to pay court-ordered child support
3. Being involved in a car accident while driving without insurance
4. If you’re convicted of driving under the influence or while intoxicated with drugs
5. If found guilty of serious traffic offenses like reckless driving
6. Part of the requirement to have your license reinstated after a period of revocation or suspension
7. If you have a temporary license that restricts your driving hours due to revocation or suspension

How Do I Obtain an SR-22 Coverage?

You can get an SR-22 from any car insurance company. However, the insurer has to apply for the SR-22 from the state. Since SR-22 is a document that indicates you have minimum liability protection, you’ll have to make plans on how to acquire auto insurance.

Here are the two ways of obtaining the certificate:

1. If You Have an Active Car Insurance Policy: Contact your insurance agent and request them to facilitate the SR-22 application. The document has a processing fee. In addition, you might need to change your insurer as some companies don’t offer the service.
2. When You Need to Buy an Insurance Plan and SR-22: If you don’t have active insurance coverage, it makes sense to apply for it and SR-22 simultaneously. Remember to tick the SR-22 part as you complete the insurance coverage application.

What Is the Validity of SR-22?

Many states have varying periods where drivers must carry the ‘’Certificate of Financial Responsibility’’. Nonetheless, most states, including California, require high-risk drivers to maintain the SR-22 for three years.

The validity of SR-22 is in line with revocation or suspension, which can last several months to a few years.

Don’t Risk Driving Without SR-22 Insurance Coverage — Get Covered Today!

If you’re categorized as a high-risk driver, you’ll have to acquire an SR-22 certificate. Driving without an SR-22 could attract a hefty fine, license suspension, or revocation. You also need basic insurance to protect yourself against financial loss if an accident occurs.

At Panorama Insurance, we work with multiple insurers to give our clients a tailored product that exceeds their expectations.

Contact us online or call us at 818.781.6630 to request a quote.