If you’ve gotten in trouble behind the wheel in Arizona, you could be ordered by the court to file for an SR-22.
While it’s commonly called “SR-22 insurance,” an SR-22 isn’t insurance at all. Rather, it’s a document your insurance company files with the state to prove you’re covered by the minimum car insurance required to legally drive.
Here’s a look at how you can get and maintain an SR-22 in the Grand Canyon State.
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Do I need to file an SR-22 in Arizona?
Your state DMV will let you know if you need to file an SR-22. In Arizona, you may need to file for an SR-22 if:
- You’re found driving without insurance.
- You’re convicted of reckless driving.
- You’re convicted of a DUI.
- You refuse to take a blood alcohol content (BAC) test.
- You’ve acquired too many points on your driving record.
- The state restricts or revokes your license.
What if I don’t have a car or license?
You’ll still need to file for an SR-22 to legally get behind the wheel in Arizona. If you lose your license because you’re caught driving without insurance, the court could order you to carry non-owner insurance to reinstate your license.
What if I’m from another state?
If you have an SR-22 from another state, you must maintain it while driving in Arizona. Your SR-22 is likely to be sufficient in Arizona, but it’s best to verify coverage with the DMV and your insurer.
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How much does an SR-22 cost in Arizona?
Once you’ve purchased or renewed a policy, most providers will file an SR-22 for a fee of $20 to $50.
But it’s not the fee that’s most expensive when you file for an SR-22 — you’ll also typically see higher premiums than you’re used to. SR-22s are often required after a driving conviction, such as driving without insurance or a DUI conviction. With such severe convictions on your driving record, you’re considered a “high-risk” driver by the state and most providers.The impact of an SR-22 on your car insurance rates
How do I file for an SR-22 in Arizona
- Find an insurer. Ask your insurer if it issue SR-22s in the state of Arizona. If it doesn’t, you’ll need to find a car insurance company that does.
- Pay the SR-22 fee. To finalize your SR-22, you pay a fee to your insurer for processing and the convenience of it filing on your behalf.
- Verify minimum liability coverage. If you’re already insured, call your provider to verify your policy includes at least:
- $15,000 for injury or death to one person.
- $30,000 for injury or death to more than one person.
- $10,000 for damage to property.
These are the minimum coverage requirements for the state of Arizona that you might see listed as 15/30/10 in insurance documents.
- Submit your SR-22. Your insurance agent will file your SR-22 with the Arizona Secretary of State’s office.
- Wait for confirmation. You’ll receive a letter from your insurer and the state of Arizona that your SR-22 is accepted.
How long will I need to hold an SR-22 for in Arizona?
In Arizona, most court-ordered SR-22s result in a coverage requirement of three years. That three-year timeline may be shortened if you maintain a spotless driving record during the mandate.
What happens if I let my SR-22 lapse?
Talk to your provider about how much you can expect your rates to increase. And make sure you understand your role in maintaining your insurance and your SR-22. A lapse or nonrenewal could set you back a lot of money and time.
What happens when I don’t need SR-22 coverage anymore?
Once your mandate has ended, it’s time to adjust your insurance as needed. Before you cancel your current policy it may be worth double checking with the DMV that your SR-22 is completely fulfilled.
After confirming the end of your mandate you can contact your insurance company and cancel or revisit your policy.
Bottom line
Whether you’re moving on from the fallout of a DUI, driving without insurance or another driving conviction maintaining your SR-22 until the end of it can prevent further problems down the road. Once you’ve completed the SR-22, make sure you compare insurance companies before you settle on a new policy to find one that fits your situation best.
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