If you’ve been told you need SR22 insurance in Montana, you’re probably wondering what that even means. SR22 insurance is basically a certificate showing you’ve got car insurance that meets Montana’s minimum coverage after things like a DUI or driving without insurance.
It’s not actually an insurance policy—just a form your insurance company files with the state.
Montana drivers who need SR22 have to get their insurance company to send this certificate to the Montana Motor Vehicle Division. That way, the state knows you’re financially responsible enough to get back behind the wheel after a suspension or revocation.
Let’s break down what you really need to know about the process, costs, and how to keep (or eventually ditch) the SR22 from your record.
Key Takeways
- You need SR22 to prove you have required insurance after major driving violations.
- Your insurance company files the SR22 certificate with the state for you.
- Costs vary, and the SR22 stays until Montana lifts the requirement.
Understanding SR22 Insurance in Montana
SR22 insurance is just proof you carry the state’s required liability coverage. It’s tied to legal or driving issues and comes with a few strict rules about how long you have to keep it.
Here’s what SR22 insurance means, why Montana might require it, and how it stands apart from regular car insurance.
What Is SR22 Insurance?
SR22 insurance isn’t really “insurance”—it’s a certificate your insurer files with Montana’s DMV. This proves you’ve got the minimum liability insurance required by the state.
If you’re at fault in an accident, the SR22 shows you can pay for damages.
You’ll usually need an SR22 after serious violations like DUIs, reckless driving, or a suspended license. The state typically requires you to keep it active for about three years, but it depends on your situation.
If your insurance lapses or the SR22 is canceled, the DMV gets notified. That can mean another license suspension.
Who Needs SR22 in Montana?
You’ll need SR22 insurance if Montana’s DMV asks for proof of financial responsibility. This is usually after:
- A DUI or DWI
- Reckless or dangerous driving
- Driving uninsured or with a suspended license
Lost your license or at risk of losing it? SR22 is your ticket to getting it back—or keeping it, if you’re lucky. You’ll probably have to keep SR22 insurance for a few years before you can go back to regular coverage.
How SR22 Differs from Standard Car Insurance
SR22 isn’t a separate policy—it’s just a form your insurer files with the state. The coverage you need includes:
| Coverage Type | Montana Minimum Requirement |
|---|---|
| Bodily Injury Per Person | $25,000 |
| Bodily Injury Per Accident | $50,000 |
| Property Damage | $20,000 |
SR22 insurance usually costs more than standard insurance since you’re now considered higher risk. You’ll still buy regular insurance, but your company files the SR22 with the DMV.
This form is your official proof you meet state insurance laws.
Requirements for SR22 Filing in Montana
Montana has some specific hoops to jump through if you need SR22. The process is a little paperwork-heavy and there’s a timeline to keep in mind.
SR22 Criteria Set by the State
Montana requires SR22 after serious violations—think DUI, reckless driving, or driving uninsured. The SR22 proves you’re carrying at least the minimum liability insurance.
You’ll need to keep the SR22 on file for one to three years, depending on what happened. If you cancel your policy or it lapses, your insurer tells the state, and you could lose your license again.
Montana’s minimum liability coverage includes both bodily injury and property damage. You have to meet these limits for your SR22 to count.
Documentation and Process Overview
To file an SR22, your insurance company submits a certificate to Montana’s Motor Vehicle Division (MVD). It’s not a type of insurance—just proof you’ve got an active policy that meets state law.
You’ll need to call your insurance provider and ask for the SR22 filing. There are usually some fees, both from your insurer and the state.
If you switch companies, the new one has to file a fresh SR22. Keep your paperwork and receipts handy, just in case the MVD or court asks.
SR22 Insurance Costs and Coverage Options
Curious about how much SR22 insurance costs in Montana? Or what kind of coverage you can get? Here’s what matters.
Average Rates and Factors Affecting Prices
SR22 insurance in Montana runs about $58 a month for minimum coverage. If you want full coverage, it’s closer to $158 monthly.
Filing the SR22 form itself usually costs an extra $15 to $30. Some insurers tack on another $5 to $25 just for adding SR22 to your policy.
Your driving record, age, car, and how long you need SR22 all affect your price. If you’ve had serious violations before, expect to pay more.
Coverage Types Available for SR22 Policies
Your SR22 policy has to meet Montana’s minimum liability requirements:
- $25,000 for injury or death of one person
- $50,000 for injury or death of two or more people
- A set minimum for property damage
You can always bump up your coverage for more protection. Full coverage usually means adding collision and comprehensive insurance.
SR22 is just proof you’ve got the required liability insurance. Your insurer files the certificate to show the state you’re covered.
Tips to Reduce Your SR22 Premium
There are a few ways to try and keep your SR22 costs down.
First, shop around—some insurers are just cheaper for SR22. A few even specialize in these filings.
Keep your driving record clean while you have SR22. No tickets, no accidents, no drama.
Raising your deductible can lower your monthly payment, but you’ll pay more if you file a claim.
Always ask about discounts, like safe driver or multi-policy deals. Sometimes, it actually helps.
Maintaining and Removing SR22 in Montana
You’ve got to keep your SR22 insurance active for a set time, no breaks allowed. If you mess up, there are consequences. When your required period is over, you can finally get rid of the SR22.
Duration and Compliance Guidelines
Usually, Montana wants you to keep SR22 insurance for three years from the original filing date. That means zero gaps—your insurance must stay active the whole time.
You have to keep full coverage and make sure your insurer files the SR22 for you. Even a one-day lapse can mean starting over.
Your insurer will let the state know if you lose coverage. Check in with your insurance company now and then, just to be sure you’re still in compliance.
Consequences of Lapse or Cancellation
If your SR22 insurance gets canceled or there’s a gap, the Montana MVD can suspend your license or hit you with fines.
You might have to refile the SR22 and start that whole three-year period all over again. That’s a pain—and it costs more.
Don’t let your SR22 lapse, even by accident. Keeping your insurance current helps you avoid extra penalties and headaches.
Steps to Remove SR22 from Your Record
Once you’ve made it through the three-year period without any issues, it’s time to get that SR22 off your record. Start by reaching out to your insurance company and ask them to file a cancellation of SR22 with the state.
Your insurer will let the Montana MVD know you no longer need the SR22. After that, your driving record gets updated, and you can switch back to regular car insurance.
Don’t cancel your policy too soon, though. The insurer has to officially file the SR22 cancellation—just stopping your coverage won’t actually remove it from your record.