What is Texas SR22 Insurance?
Understanding SR-22 Insurance in Texas
If you’re a driver in Texas, you might have heard about SR-22 insurance. It’s important to understand what SR-22 is, who needs it, and how to get it. Here’s everything you need to know about SR-22 insurance in Texas.
What is SR-22 Insurance?
Contrary to popular belief, SR-22 isn’t actually insurance. Instead, it’s a certificate of financial responsibility required by the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS). It proves that you carry the minimum auto insurance coverage required by Texas law. Essentially, it’s a form that your insurance company files with the DPS to vouch for your coverage.
Who Needs SR-22 in Texas?
You might be required to obtain an SR-22 if you’ve had certain traffic violations, including but not limited to:
Driving under the influence (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI)
Driving without insurance
Reckless driving
Accumulating too many traffic violation points
How to Get SR-22 Insurance in Texas
Contact Your Insurance Provider: If you already have auto insurance, contact your provider to see if they can file an SR-22 on your behalf. Not all insurance companies offer SR-22 filing services, so you may need to switch providers.
Purchase a Policy: If you don’t have insurance or your current provider doesn’t offer SR-22 filing, you’ll need to purchase a policy from a company that does. Be prepared for higher premiums, as drivers requiring SR-22 are often considered high-risk.
File the SR-22 Form: Your insurance company will file the SR-22 form with the Texas DPS. There may be a filing fee, and it usually takes a few days to process.
Maintain Your Coverage: Once your SR-22 is filed, you must maintain continuous insurance coverage for a specified period, typically two years. If your policy lapses, your insurance company is required to notify the DPS, which could result in the suspension of your driving privileges.
How Much Does SR-22 Insurance Cost in Texas?
The cost of SR-22 insurance in Texas varies depending on your driving history, age, and other factors. However, you can expect to pay higher premiums than a standard policy due to the increased risk associated with drivers who need an SR-22. Additionally, there’s usually a one-time filing fee of about $25 to $50.
Final Thoughts
If you find yourself in need of SR-22 insurance in Texas, don’t panic. It’s a temporary requirement that, with careful driving and continuous coverage, will eventually be lifted. Make sure to shop around for the best rates and maintain a clean driving record to keep your premiums as low as possible.
Texas SR22 Insurance Information
In Texas, the minimum liability insurance requirements are the following three points:
- $30,000 to cover bodily injury or death of one person in a car crash.
- $60,000 to cover bodily injuries or deaths of two or more people in a motor vehicle accident.
- $25,000 to cover damages incurred to any property from an auto accident.
How fast can we file your paperwork?
We can bind your Texas SR22 policy and file your Texas SR22 paperwork immediately. While the documents may not show up in the State’s computer system for up to 72 hours, we provide you with an SR22 certificate instantly via email. We can even fax your paperwork directly to the appropriate DMV.