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If you’re convicted of a crime in Virginia that results in the state revoking your driver’s license, you might be required to file an SR-22 certificate. An SR-22 is certification of financial responsibility. It confirms to the state that you’re covered by car insurance meeting Virginia’s minimum requirements. This form must be filed before your license can be reinstated.
The fee your provider charges for filing the SR-22 should be around $20 to $50.
But the filing fee isn’t what’s most expensive when you’re required to file an SR-22 — you’ll also typically see higher premiums than you’re used to.
SR-22s are often required after serious driving conviction, such as driving without insurance or reckless driving. After such a conviction, the state considers you a “high-risk” driver, as will most providers — which typically results in higher insurance rates. Still, you’ll find providers out there — like the General — that specialize in high-risk drivers.
Talk to your provider about how much you can expect your rates to increase.
Here’s how to file an SR-22 in Virginia:
Find the best rates from insurance providers near you or learn more about state minimums and other requirements in the comprehensive guide to Virginia car insurance.
In Virginia, you’re typically required to maintain an SR-22 certificate for three years.
Your state DMV will let you know if you need to file an SR-22. Virginia law may require you to file an SR-22 if your license is suspended due to:
Even if you don’t own a car, you’re required to file an SR-22 if you want to get your license reinstated. You’ll likely need to purchase a non-owner or operator insurance policy.
If you have an SR-22 from another state, you must maintain it while driving in Virginia.
Your insurance provider is required to report any lapse in coverage. If your policy is canceled due to missed payments or you’ve failed to renew it, the state will be notified immediately. This gap in coverage could lead to your license being suspended again.
A suspension can only be lifted by paying the reinstatement fees and renewing your insurance. You may also have the clock reset on your filing period. In other words, if you were two years into your three-year period you would have to carry the certification for three years from the point of your license reinstatement instead of two.
You may want to contact the DMV once you think your mandated filing period is over. Once you confirm with the state that it’s fulfilled you can work with your insurance agent to find out what the best plan is for you moving forward.
Compare SR-22 car insurance from companies near you.
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Need help? Call (877) 959-5072 toll-free to speak to an SR-22 specialist.
Virginia has steep reinstatement and uninsured motor vehicle fees that you may be able to avoid paying more than once if you properly maintain your SR-22 certification. Drive safely and legally, keep up on your insurance premiums and renew your policy early to avoid potentially getting your license suspended again.
Fees aren’t the only cost you’ll face. Be sure to shop around and compare providers to find insurance that covers what you need at a rate you can afford.
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