If you’re looking for SR22 insurance in North Dakota, it means the state wants proof you have the required liability coverage. SR22 isn’t actually a type of insurance—it’s a form your insurer files to confirm you’ve got the minimum coverage after certain driving violations.
This form lets the state keep tabs on your insurance to make sure you stay covered.
Getting SR22 insurance might seem like a hassle, but the process is pretty straightforward. Your insurance company in North Dakota handles the filing once you meet their requirements.
The cost for SR22 insurance is usually higher than standard coverage since, let’s face it, insurers see you as a higher risk.
Key Takeways
- You have to file an SR22 form to prove insurance after certain violations.
- Your insurance company does the SR22 filing for you.
- SR22 insurance tends to cost more than regular insurance.
Understanding SR22 Insurance in North Dakota
If you’re told to file an SR22 in North Dakota, you probably want to know what’s involved and why you need it. There are a few basics you should wrap your head around.
What Is SR22 Insurance?
SR22 isn’t a separate insurance policy. It’s a certificate your insurance company files with the state.
This form proves you’ve got the minimum required car insurance.
It’s used mostly for drivers the state or insurance companies see as high-risk.
The SR22 sticks around on your driving record for a set time—usually three years in North Dakota.
Until then, you’ve got to keep your insurance active and follow the coverage rules.
Who Needs SR22 Insurance in North Dakota
You might need SR22 insurance if you’ve had certain violations or run-ins on the road.
Some common reasons:
- Driving without insurance
- Reckless driving or DUI
- Racking up multiple traffic tickets
If the court or DMV says you need it, you have to file an SR22.
Your insurance company sends in the form to prove you’re carrying the right coverage.
Without an SR22, you could lose your license or get hit with fines.
Legal Requirements for SR22 Filing
In North Dakota, SR22 filing comes with specific rules.
First, you need to have the state’s minimum liability insurance. Here’s what that looks like:
| Coverage Type | Minimum Amount |
|---|---|
| Bodily Injury Liability | $25,000 per person / $50,000 per accident |
| Property Damage Liability | $25,000 |
Your insurer sends the SR22 form to the North Dakota Department of Transportation.
You’ve got to keep your SR22 insurance active for at least three years, or until the state tells you otherwise.
If your policy lapses or gets canceled, your insurer will notify the state, which can mean a suspended license.
How to Obtain SR22 Insurance in North Dakota
To get SR22 insurance in North Dakota, you’ll need to pick the right insurance provider, follow the steps to file the SR22, and get your paperwork together.
This is all about proving to the state you’re financially responsible after certain violations.
Steps to File SR22
First up, contact an insurance company that can file an SR22 certificate for you.
This form is your proof you’ve got the minimum liability coverage North Dakota law requires.
You’ll pay an extra fee on top of your regular premium for the SR22 filing.
The insurance company sends the SR22 form directly to the state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
Keep your insurance active while the SR22 is on file. If your coverage lapses, your insurer has to tell the DMV, which can mean your license gets suspended.
Selecting an Insurance Provider
Pick an insurer that’s authorized in North Dakota and can file SR22 forms.
Shop around and compare rates, since SR22 insurance isn’t cheap.
Ask for quotes and double-check that they’ll actually file the SR22 with the state.
Some insurers work with higher-risk drivers all the time, so they might make the process smoother—or at least less stressful.
Check the company’s reputation for service. Prompt filing and clear communication matter, because delays could mess with your driving privileges.
Processing Time and Documentation
Once you’ve chosen a provider, you’ll need to submit ID and driving history details.
The company uses this info to issue a valid SR22 certificate.
Filing usually happens within a few days after you buy the coverage.
Once it’s filed, the DMV updates your record to show you’re meeting SR22 requirements.
Hang on to copies of everything for your own records.
It’s smart to check with the DMV to make sure they got the SR22 and processed it—better safe than sorry.
Costs and Impacts of SR22 Insurance
SR22 insurance in North Dakota almost always costs more than regular insurance.
Besides higher premiums, you’ll pay extra fees for the SR22 filing.
Your driving record will show the SR22 status, which can affect your insurance and legal standing.
SR22 Insurance Premium Changes
When you need SR22 insurance, your premiums go up—insurers see you as a higher risk.
In North Dakota, the average annual cost for SR22 insurance runs about $1,300 to $1,800.
If you only carry liability, your monthly cost could be around $89.
Full coverage SR22 insurance? That’s more like $150 a month or higher.
Rates depend on your driving history, age, and which company you pick.
Choosing the cheapest SR22 policy from companies like Nationwide might save you a bit.
Still, your premium probably won’t drop until the SR22 requirement is over.
Fees Associated With SR22 Filing
You’ll pay a separate fee to file the SR22 form with the state.
In North Dakota, it usually ranges from $15 to $25, depending on your insurer or the DMV.
This fee is on top of your insurance premium.
It just covers the cost of proving to the state you’ve got the coverage they want.
If your insurance lapses, you’ll have to pay the filing fee again to reinstate your SR22.
Keeping your policy active saves you from those repeat fees.
Effect on Driving Record
An SR22 sticks around on your driving record for a while—usually about three years if you’re in North Dakota. Insurers and the DMV will see it flagged on your file.
If you’ve got an SR22, the state basically considers you a high-risk driver. Not exactly the label anyone wants.
Even after the SR22 drops off, your insurance rates might stay higher than you’d hope.
It’s honestly best to steer clear of more tickets or accidents during this stretch. Getting into trouble again could mean you need the SR22 even longer or end up paying even more for insurance.