Drivers who have an SR22 requirement must carry an SR22 for a certain length of time depending on the court decision and circumstances of the incident. Most SR22 requirements last two to three years after the requirement is initially issued. This means a driver must carry an
SR22 form for two to three years along with the state required minimum auto insurance.
What Happens When an SR22 Expires?
An SR22 is a form that declares you carry the state required amount of car insurance. Once you no longer have this requirement, you do not need to carry an SR22 form. This does not absolve you from carrying insurance, however. No matter where you live, each state has certain laws when it comes to auto insurance.
In Missouri, for example, all drivers must carry at least:
- $25,000 in bodily injury liability per person
- $50,000 in bodily injury liability per accident
- $10,000 in property damage liability
You will need to carry this insurance even after your SR22 requirement expires. However, you may see other changes such as in your auto insurance rates.
What is SR22 Insurance?
SR22 insurance refers to auto insurance a driver carries with an SR22. Drivers with an SR22 generally pay more for auto insurance than those without. This is not specifically because of the SR22, however, as an SR22 is just a paper form. Instead, your insurance rates will go up because of the accident or traffic violation that leads to an SR22 requirement, such as being convicted of a DUI or DWI.
When your SR22 expires, you could see a significant drop in your rates from 30% or more.
Certain accidents may remain on your driving record for various lengths of time, some of which coincide with the time your SR22 may expire.
While you have to carry an SR22, make sure you follow its limitations. Any violation of your SR22 can extend the length of time you must carry it as well as result in other repercussions such as license suspension and fines.
It is crucial to remain in contact with the court that issued your SR22 as well as your insurer. Keep in mind that any lapse in your coverage will notify the court that handled your SR22 case and could lead to your auto insurance policy being cancelled. SR22s can also make it more difficult to find affordable auto insurance, so be sure to compare quotes and speak with an insurance agent about covering your SR22 requirements.
Also Read: SR-22: What is a High-Risk Driver?