How Much Is SR22 Insurance in Arizona?

SR22 insurance in Arizona is a specific requirement for certain drivers, indicating proof of financial responsibility.

Arizona SR22 Insurance Explained

An SR22 is not an insurance policy itself; instead, it functions as a certificate of financial responsibility. This document is filed by an insurance provider with the Arizona Motor Vehicle Division (MVD), verifying that an individual maintains at least the state’s minimum required liability insurance coverage. Its purpose is to assure the state that the driver is financially responsible for any potential accidents.

This certification is mandated after a serious driving infraction or involvement in an uninsured accident. Arizona law requires all drivers to carry specific minimum liability coverage: $25,000 for bodily injury per person, $50,000 for bodily injury per accident, and $15,000 for property damage. The SR22 filing confirms adherence to these specific state requirements.

Factors Affecting SR22 Insurance Costs

The actual cost associated with an SR22 primarily stems from the underlying auto insurance policy to which it is attached. The SR22 filing itself usually involves a small, one-time administrative fee, often ranging from $15 to $25. The more significant financial impact comes from increased insurance premiums, as drivers requiring an SR22 are classified as high-risk.

Several elements influence these higher premiums. A driver’s record, including the severity and number of offenses that led to the SR22 requirement, such as a DUI or driving without insurance, significantly impacts rates. The type of SR22 policy also matters; an “owner SR22” is for those who own a vehicle, while a “non-owner SR22” is for individuals who do not own a car but still need to reinstate their license.

Purchasing higher coverage limits, beyond Arizona’s minimum requirements, will also lead to increased premiums. Individual driver characteristics, including age, gender, marital status, and credit score (where permitted by law), can influence the rates offered by insurers. The specific vehicle type, considering its make, model, year, and safety features, also plays a role in premium calculation. The geographic location within Arizona, down to the specific city or zip code, can affect insurance costs due to varying accident rates and claims. Furthermore, rates vary considerably between different insurance providers, making it beneficial to compare options.

Securing SR22 Insurance in Arizona

Obtaining an SR22 certificate in Arizona involves a specific process that begins with finding an insurance provider. Not all insurance companies offer policies for drivers who require an SR22, so identifying one that specializes in or accommodates high-risk policies is a necessary first step. These insurers are equipped to handle the unique filing requirements.

Once a suitable insurer is identified, the individual must purchase an auto insurance policy that meets Arizona’s minimum liability requirements. This policy serves as the foundation for the SR22 certificate. The insurance company then electronically files the SR22 certificate directly with the Arizona MVD on the driver’s behalf. The driver is not responsible for filing the SR22 document themselves; this is handled by the insurance company as part of the service.

Upon successful receipt of the SR22 filing, the MVD confirms this, which is a necessary step for license reinstatement. Maintain continuous insurance coverage without any lapses for the entire duration of the required period.

Length of SR22 Requirement

In Arizona, the duration for which an SR22 certificate must be maintained is three years. This period commences from the date of the license suspension or conviction that triggered the requirement. The specific offense and the Arizona MVD’s stipulations can influence the exact length of this obligation.

The MVD will formally notify the individual when the SR22 requirement has been satisfied and is no longer necessary. A lapse in insurance coverage at any point during this mandated period can have significant consequences. Such a lapse may result in the SR22 requirement restarting, effectively extending the period for which the certificate must be maintained.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

Failing to obtain or maintain the required SR22 insurance in Arizona carries several penalties. One consequence is the re-suspension or revocation of driving privileges. This means the individual would lose their legal ability to operate a vehicle in the state.

Additional fines and fees may be imposed by the MVD for non-compliance. Furthermore, the period for which the SR22 requirement is active can be extended, often restarting the entire mandated duration from the point of the lapse. A history of non-compliance, including lapses in coverage, can also make it more challenging and expensive to secure insurance in the future.