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If you’ve lost your license in Iowa, you may have to file for SR-22 insurance in order to get your license back. Here’s a look at how you can get and maintain an SR-22 in Iowa.
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Once you’ve renewed or purchases a policy most providers will file an SR-22 for a fee $20 to $50. However, it’s not the filing fee that’s most expensive when you’re required to file an SR-22 — you’ll typically see higher premiums than you’re used to.
SR-22s are often required after a driving conviction, such as a OWI or reckless driving. After such a conviction, you’re considered a “high risk” driver by Iowa and most insurance providers — which typically results in higher insurance rates. Still, you’ll find providers out there that specialize in high-risk drivers.
Talk to your provider about how much you can expect your rates to increase.
Make sure you understand your role in maintaining your insurance and your SR-22. A lapse or nonrenewal could cost you a lot of time and money.
These are the minimum coverage requirements for the state of Iowa that you might see listed as 20/40/20 in insurance documents.
Find the best rates from insurance providers near you or learn more about state minimums and other requirements in the comprehensive guide to Iowa car insurance.
In Iowa, you usually need to keep SR-22 for two years once your license is reinstated.
Your license and registrations are suspended if your SR-22 insurance lapses. A lapse can occur if you end your current SR-22 policy before being fully covered by a new one, expiration or cancelation. Getting your license suspended again means having to pay any reinstatement fees again as well.
After your filing period ends you’ll be able to change your policy without having to deal with SR-22 certification anymore. Confirm with the Iowa DOT before you end your coverage. Doing so can help you avoid suspension of your license and registrations.
You might be required by law to file an SR-22 if:
If you don’t own a car but you intend to drive, you still need to file for an SR-22. You’ll need to purchase a non-owner or operator insurance policy to get your license reinstated.
If you have an SR-22 from another state, maintain it while driving in Iowa. Call the Iowa Department of Transportation (DOT) to determine whether your SR-22 is sufficient in Iowa.
If you move from Iowa and want to apply for a license in another state, you still need to meet Iowa’s SR-22 requirements. You and a driver’s license official need to complete an Iowa Residency Statement form.
Once it’s completed, mail it to:
Iowa Department of Transportation
Office of Driver Services
P.O. Box 9204
Des Moines, Iowa 50306-9204.
Compare SR-22 car insurance from companies near you.
Your information is secure.
Need help? Call (877) 959-5072 toll-free to speak to an SR-22 specialist.
You’ll need to keep up your SR-22 filing for two years after the mandate is passed. Staying on top of your payments, filing by your deadline and maintaining a spotless driving record during this time can help you avoid additional fees and losing your license again.
Compare your insurance options before you settle. Your premiums will likely be higher, which makes it all the more important to get the best deal available.
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