If you’ve been told you need to file an SR22 in New Hampshire, you’re probably wondering what’s next. SR22 insurance is just a certificate that proves you have the minimum car insurance required after a serious driving offense—think DUI or a big traffic violation.
It’s not an insurance policy itself. Instead, it’s a form your insurer files with the state so you can keep your license.
Getting SR22 insurance usually means finding a licensed insurance company in New Hampshire that can handle this for you. Costs are often higher than standard insurance, landing somewhere between $500 and $700 a year—though it really depends on your situation.
Understanding how to get and keep this filing is key if you want to avoid license trouble and stay on the road.
Key Takeways
- SR22 proves you meet insurance rules after a serious driving issue.
- Only licensed New Hampshire insurers can file an SR22 for you.
- Keeping your SR22 active keeps your driving status legal.
What Is SR22 Insurance in New Hampshire?
SR22 isn’t a separate insurance product. It’s a form your insurance company files to prove you’ve got the minimum required coverage.
It’s tied to legal rules and specific events that trigger the need for SR22. There are differences between this and regular car insurance that matter.
Legal Requirements for SR22 in New Hampshire
The state will require you to carry an SR22 if a court or the DMV orders it. This usually comes after a serious driving violation.
You need to keep SR22 coverage for at least three years. If your insurance lapses during that time, you could lose your license again.
The SR22 form is your proof that you meet New Hampshire’s minimum coverage. Without it, you can’t legally drive.
Situations Requiring SR22 Filing
You’ll need an SR22 if you get a DUI or DWI in New Hampshire. Other triggers include driving without insurance, reckless driving, or stacking up too many traffic violations.
The state uses SR22 to keep tabs on high-risk drivers. It’s their way of making sure you don’t hit the road uninsured.
Usually, you get about 30 days after your violation to provide SR22 proof or you risk losing your driving privileges.
How SR22 Differs from Standard Insurance
SR22 is just a certificate—your insurance company files it to confirm you’ve got coverage. It’s not a policy on its own.
Once you’re required to have an SR22, your insurance rates almost always go up. In New Hampshire, expect about $40 more per month, maybe more.
Regular insurance doesn’t include SR22 unless you or the state specifically need it. Without it, you’re not legally covered to drive after certain violations.
How to Obtain SR22 Insurance in New Hampshire
To get SR22 insurance in New Hampshire, you’ll need to follow a few steps. Picking the right insurer and knowing the costs ahead of time can help you avoid surprises.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Start by calling your current insurance company, or shop around for a new one, and let them know you need an SR22 filing. They’ll file the SR22 certificate with the New Hampshire DMV for you.
You need a valid car insurance policy before they can file the SR22. Make sure your insurer is licensed in New Hampshire.
Once the SR22 is filed, the DMV gets notified that you’re meeting the state’s requirements. Keep the SR22 active for the full period—usually three years—to avoid getting your license suspended.
If you cancel or stop paying, your insurer has to tell the DMV right away.
Choosing an Insurance Provider
Pick a licensed insurance company that actually offers SR22 filings in New Hampshire. Not every insurer does, so double-check before you waste time.
You can ask your current insurer if they handle SR22s. If not, look for companies with fair rates—The Hanover is one people mention for lower prices, but always check reviews and shop around.
Make sure your provider files the SR22 correctly and on time. Any mistakes or delays could mean more legal headaches or losing your license.
Costs Involved with SR22 Insurance
Be ready for your insurance premiums to rise when you add an SR22. In New Hampshire, the average cost is around $1,619 a year, but it really depends on your record and your insurer.
Besides higher premiums, there’s usually a one-time SR22 filing fee—expect $15 to $25. The DMV doesn’t charge you for the SR22, but if you don’t keep it up, you could face fines or lose your license.
Pay your premiums on time and keep your SR22 active. Otherwise, you’re risking more fees and penalties.
Maintaining and Managing Your SR22
You’ve got to keep your SR22 active, no gaps allowed. Missing a payment or canceling early can mess with your driving privileges.
Staying organized and knowing your requirements helps you avoid extra hassles.
Duration of SR22 Filing
In New Hampshire, you typically need to keep SR22 insurance on file for three years from your violation or court order. Sometimes it’s longer, depending on what happened.
Your insurance company sends a copy of the SR22 to the DMV. You can’t have any breaks in coverage during this time.
If you switch insurance providers, your new company needs to file a new SR22 right away to keep you in compliance.
What Happens if SR22 Lapses?
If your SR22 coverage lapses—meaning you let it cancel or you miss a payment—the DMV gets notified. That can lead to your license being suspended or even revoked.
You’ll probably have to pay reinstatement fees and might need to start the whole SR22 period over. That means higher insurance rates and more time under SR22 restrictions.
Missing a filing deadline is a big deal. The DMV wants proof of continuous SR22 coverage before they’ll lift any driving restrictions.
Tips for Staying Compliant
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Keep your insurance active every day during the required SR22 period.
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Avoid cancelling or changing your policy without telling your insurance company and the DMV.
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Pay premiums on time to prevent your policy from being cancelled automatically.
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Confirm your insurer files the SR22 with the New Hampshire DMV.
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Set reminders for your SR22 end date so you’re ready for the removal process.