If you’ve been told you need SR22 insurance in Florida, you’re probably asking yourself what exactly that means. SR22 insurance isn’t a type of insurance at all—it’s a certificate that proves you carry the minimum car insurance required by the state after certain driving offenses.
This form is what lets you meet legal requirements to keep or get your license back.
Getting SR22 insurance in Florida isn’t the same as just buying regular car insurance. It’s something drivers need after events like a DUI or being caught driving without insurance.
If you know how to file the SR22, what it’ll cost, and how long you’re stuck with it, you’ll save yourself a lot of headaches.
Key Takeways
- You need an SR22 certificate to prove you have the required insurance after certain violations.
- Filing and keeping SR22 insurance comes with specific steps and extra costs.
- Don’t let your SR22 lapse, or you could lose your license again.
Understanding SR22 Insurance in Florida
SR22 insurance is really just a special form that proves you have Florida’s minimum auto insurance. It’s for certain drivers, and there are rules under state law about coverage limits and how it’s filed.
What SR22 Insurance Means
An SR22 isn’t a separate insurance policy—it’s a certificate your insurer files with the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles. It shows you’ve got the minimum liability coverage Florida demands.
That’s at least $10,000 for injury or death to one person, $20,000 for all injuries or deaths in a single accident, and $10,000 for property damage.
The state uses the SR22 to make sure you’re financially responsible enough to drive. Without it, they’ll suspend your license.
Your insurance company handles the SR22 filing after you let them know you need it.
Who Needs SR22 Insurance in Florida
SR22 insurance is for people with certain driving violations or legal issues. You might need it if you’ve been convicted of:
- DUI
- Reckless driving
- Driving without insurance
- Causing an accident without insurance
It’s also sometimes required if your license was suspended for not paying fines or missing a court date.
Usually, you’ll have to keep the SR22 for three years, though it could be longer depending on what happened.
Your insurer is the one who files and maintains the SR22 during this time. If your policy lapses or you cancel, the state gets notified and your license can be suspended again.
How SR22 Works With Florida Law
Florida law says if you need SR22, you’ve got to keep the minimum liability limits active, no exceptions. These limits are there to protect other people on the road.
When you file an SR22, your insurer will charge a fee for the certificate. That’s on top of your regular premium. Only insurers authorized in Florida can provide SR22 coverage.
If your insurer drops you or the SR22 isn’t filed properly, the state suspends your license. So, keeping your SR22 active—no gaps—is crucial if you want to keep driving.
SR22 Filing Process in Florida
Filing for an SR22 in Florida is a step-by-step thing, and you’ll need to give your insurer some documents. The process is there to make sure the state knows you’re covered.
Steps to Obtain an SR22 Certificate
Start by asking your auto insurance provider if they handle SR22 filings. If they do, just request the SR22, and they’ll file it with the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV).
You have to keep your insurance going once the SR22 is filed. If your policy lapses or gets canceled, your insurer tells the state.
There’s a filing fee—usually between $15 and $50—on top of your insurance premiums.
If your current insurer doesn’t do SR22s, you’ll need to shop around for one that does. Once the SR22 is accepted, your license can be reinstated after the state confirms you’re insured.
Required Documentation and Eligibility
To get an SR22, you’ll need a valid Florida driver’s license or ID. Be ready to provide your personal info, your driver’s license number, and details about your vehicle.
SR22 is generally required if your license was suspended for DUI, driving without insurance, or a serious traffic violation.
You also need to show you’ve got the minimum liability coverage. Your insurance policy handles that part.
Be ready to pay the SR22 filing fee and any increase in your insurance premium. Your insurer files everything directly with the DHSMV.
SR22 Insurance Costs and Policy Options
SR22 insurance costs in Florida depend on your coverage level and the provider you pick. There’s a filing fee, plus your monthly premiums.
Average SR22 Costs in Florida
On average, SR22 insurance in Florida costs about $115 a month for the minimum coverage. If you want full coverage, you’re looking at around $255 per month.
There’s also a filing fee, usually $25. You’ll pay this fee every time you file or renew your SR22. It’s separate from your monthly premium.
The exact cost depends on your driving record and which insurer you go with. SR22 insurance is pricier than standard insurance because you’re considered a higher risk.
Comparing SR22 Providers
Insurance companies all have their own prices and policy options for SR22 coverage. Some focus on Florida SR22s, including owner and non-owner policies. Non-owner insurance is for people who drive but don’t own a car.
When you’re comparing providers, look at:
- Monthly premiums
- Filing fees
- Customer service
- Policy flexibility
Some companies advertise rates as low as $8 a month, but double check the coverage actually meets Florida’s requirements.
It’s smart to get a few quotes. Maybe even bundle your SR22 with other policies if you can swing it.
Maintaining and Canceling SR22 Insurance
You have to keep your SR22 insurance active for the full required period, with no breaks. When it’s time to cancel, there’s a process to follow, or you could end up with another suspension.
Compliance and Renewal Requirements
Typically, you’ll need SR22 insurance for three years. If the offense was serious, like a DUI, it might be longer.
Your insurance needs to stay active—no gaps allowed. If your policy lapses before your SR22 period is over, the state can suspend your license.
Your insurer has to file the SR22 form each year. If they don’t, or if you switch companies and the new one doesn’t file, you could lose your driving privileges.
If you change insurance companies, make sure the new provider files a fresh SR22 with the state. Always keep proof you’ve had continuous coverage.
Cancellation and Reinstatement Process
Once you’ve met the full required period, you can finally cancel your SR22 insurance. Just let your insurance company know you want them to stop filing the SR22 form with the state.
But here’s the thing: if you cancel your SR22 too early, Florida might suspend your license all over again. It’s best to wait until your driving privileges are officially restored.
If your license does get suspended because you missed SR22 coverage, you’ll need to pick the insurance back up and let your insurer know. They’ll handle filing the SR22 so you can get your license back.
It’s a good idea to double-check that the state actually received your cancellation or reinstatement notice. That way, you can avoid any annoying surprises down the road.