Can You Get Insurance If Your License Is Suspended?

Having a driver’s license suspended can disrupt daily life, impacting work, family, and personal responsibilities. While a suspended license presents obstacles, obtaining vehicle insurance is frequently achievable and, in many cases, a mandatory step toward regaining driving privileges.

Understanding Insurance Requirements for Suspended Licenses

A suspended driver’s license often necessitates specific insurance filings to demonstrate financial responsibility. The most common form required in these situations is an SR-22, a document that your insurance company files with your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). This filing proves that your auto insurance policy meets the state’s minimum liability coverage requirements.

The need for an SR-22 typically arises from serious traffic offenses. These can include convictions for driving under the influence (DUI), reckless driving, or being involved in an at-fault accident without insurance. In some instances, if you do not own a vehicle, a non-owner SR-22 may be required, providing liability coverage for you when driving a vehicle you do not own.

While most states utilize the SR-22, a few states, like Florida and Virginia, may require an FR-44 instead for certain serious offenses, particularly those involving alcohol. The FR-44 is similar to an SR-22 in purpose but typically mandates significantly higher liability coverage limits.

Steps to Secure Required Insurance

Not all insurance providers offer policies for high-risk drivers or handle SR-22 filings. You may need to seek out insurance companies that specialize in or are willing to provide coverage for individuals with a history of driving infractions. Contacting an insurance agent or directly inquiring with providers about their SR-22 filing services is an initial step.

Once you find a willing insurer, the application process for SR-22 insurance is similar to standard auto insurance, though you will need to disclose the reason for your SR-22 requirement. You will typically need to provide your driver’s license number, information about the type of suspension, and details about the vehicle you will be insuring, if applicable. If you do not own a car, you can obtain a non-owner policy, which still requires the SR-22 filing. The insurance company will then process your application and, upon approval, will add the SR-22 endorsement to your policy.

After your policy is active, the insurance company will electronically file the SR-22 certificate directly with your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles on your behalf. This administrative filing typically incurs a one-time fee, which usually ranges from $15 to $50, paid to the insurer. While the filing fee is minimal, the primary cost impact comes from significantly higher insurance premiums. Drivers requiring an SR-22 are classified as high-risk, leading to premiums that can be double or even triple the cost of standard insurance.

Navigating License Reinstatement

Obtaining the required insurance, such as an SR-22, is a component of the broader process of reinstating a suspended driver’s license. Beyond securing the appropriate insurance filing, several other requirements typically must be met. These often include serving a mandatory suspension period, which varies depending on the nature and severity of the offense. Additionally, individuals may be required to pay various reinstatement fees to the state’s DMV, which can range from approximately $20 to over $200, and may vary based on the specific reason for suspension or if there are multiple offenses.

Completing traffic safety courses or educational programs is another common requirement, particularly for offenses like DUI/DWI. Some states may also require passing a driver’s examination, including written, vision, or road tests, especially if the license has been suspended for an extended period. You might also need to provide proof of compliance with court orders, such as paying outstanding fines or completing community service.

The active SR-22 filing must be maintained with the state for a specified duration, typically ranging from two to five years. It is imperative to maintain continuous insurance coverage throughout this entire period. If the insurance policy lapses or is canceled before the required term is complete, the insurance company is obligated to notify the state. This notification can result in further penalties, including the re-suspension of the driver’s license and potentially restarting the entire SR-22 requirement period.

Once all requirements are fulfilled and the SR-22 period has concluded, you can typically notify your insurance company to remove the SR-22 filing, which may lead to a reduction in insurance premiums.