SR-22 Insurance in Texas: Complete Guide (2025)

Need SR-22 insurance assistance? CALL our licensed Agents (Mon-Fri, 8am – 5pm PST) for personalized guidance, or use the following Comparison Tool to evaluate options from multiple Texas-licensed insurers (to Get Cheaper rates, compare quotes from MULTIPLE insurers):

Written by Ben Breiner

Reviewed by Pamela Goforth

Updated July 10, 2025 Insurance rates and legal requirements verified quarterly. Educational content provided by licensed insurance agency. We earn commissions from sales

Introduction: Understanding SR-22 Insurance in Texas

If you’ve been required to get SR-22 insurance in Texas, you’re likely navigating unfamiliar territory with many questions. Despite its name, an SR-22 isn’t actually an insurance policy—it’s a certificate filed by your insurance company with the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) that verifies you have the minimum required auto liability coverage. This document is typically required after serious driving violations, and understanding its purpose, requirements, and implications is crucial for Texas drivers who need to reinstate their license.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about SR-22 insurance in Texas, from why it’s required to how much it costs and how to obtain it—ensuring you can get back on the road legally as soon as possible.

What is SR-22 Insurance in Texas?

An SR-22, also called a Certificate of Financial Responsibility, is proof of state-monitored liability insurance that demonstrates you meet Texas’s minimum insurance requirements. The SR-22 form is filed by your insurance company with the Texas Department of Public Safety to verify you have the necessary coverage.

The key things to understand about SR-22 in Texas:

• It’s not actually insurance but rather a form that proves you have liability insurance that meets state requirements
• Your insurance company files this form with the state on your behalf
• It serves as a guarantee to the state that you’re maintaining continuous insurance coverage
• If your policy lapses or is canceled, your insurer must notify the Texas DPS
• It’s typically required for two years from the date of your conviction or judgment

When and Why is an SR-22 Required in Texas?

Several circumstances can lead to the state requiring you to file an SR-22. These typically involve serious driving offenses or demonstrating a pattern of high-risk driving behavior.
Common situations that may require an SR-22 in Texas include:

• Driving While Intoxicated (DWI/DUI): One of the most common reasons for requiring an SR-22
• Drug Offenses: Certain drug-related convictions while operating a vehicle
• Driving While License Invalid: Operating a vehicle with a suspended license
• Multiple No Insurance Violations: Repeated citations for driving without insurance
• Causing an Accident While Uninsured: Being at fault in a crash without having insurance
• Serious Traffic Offenses: Including reckless driving or leaving the scene of an accident
• Multiple Traffic Violations: Accumulating numerous tickets in a short time period
• License Suspension or Revocation: As part of the reinstatement process
• Failure to Pay Child Support: In some cases, this can lead to license suspension requiring an SR-22 to reinstate

The SR-22 requirement ensures that high-risk drivers maintain insurance coverage, protecting other drivers on Texas roads.

Texas SR-22 Insurance Requirements

To satisfy SR-22 requirements in Texas, your insurance policy must meet the state’s minimum liability coverage limits:

• $30,000 for bodily injury liability per person injured in an accident
• $60,000 for total bodily injury liability per accident
• $25,000 for property damage liability per accident

These minimums are often referred to as 30/60/25 coverage. Remember that these minimums only cover the other party’s damages and injuries if you’re at fault in an accident. They don’t provide any coverage for your own vehicle or injuries.

How to Obtain SR-22 Insurance in Texas

Getting SR-22 insurance in Texas involves several steps:

1. Find an Authorized Insurance Provider
   Not all insurance companies offer SR-22 filings, so you may need to shop around. Major providers that typically offer SR-22 services in Texas include Mercury, Progressive, State Farm, Texas Farm Bureau, and National General. Enter your ZIP code in our Provider Comparison tool above to review options from Licensed Texas insurers who offer SR-22 services, and in just a few seconds you’ll get the best quote available on the market.
2. Purchase a Policy That Meets State Requirements
   You’ll need to buy an auto insurance policy that meets Texas’s minimum liability requirements (30/60/25 coverage). If you don’t own a vehicle, you’ll need to purchase a non-owner SR-22 policy.
3. Pay the SR-22 Filing Fee
   Insurance companies typically charge a one-time fee between $15 and $25 to file the SR-22 form with the Texas DPS. This fee is separate from your insurance premium.
4. Pay the License Reinstatement Fee
   You’ll need to pay a reinstatement fee (typically around $100) to the Texas DPS before your license can be reinstated.
5. Verify Processing
   After filing, it can take up to 21 business days for the Texas DPS to process your SR-22. You can check your driver license eligibility status online through the Texas DPS website to confirm your SR-22 has been processed.

Cost of SR-22 Insurance in Texas

The cost of SR-22 insurance in Texas is affected by several factors:

• SR-22 Filing Fee
  The one-time filing fee for an SR-22 typically ranges from $15 to $25, depending on your insurance provider.
• Insurance Premium Increases
  The more significant cost comes from increased insurance premiums due to the violation that led to your SR-22 requirement. On average:
  • Drivers with an SR-22 in Texas pay about $101 monthly for minimum coverage, compared to $65 for drivers with clean records *
  • For full coverage, SR-22 drivers pay an average of $204 monthly, compared to about $139 for those with clean records *
  • After a DUI, Texas drivers pay an average of $88 per month for minimum coverage (72% higher than with a clean record) *
  • The average annual cost for a Texas driver with one DUI filing an SR-22 is approximately $2,701 *
    * source: Texas Department of Insurance Rate Filing Database, verified January 2025.
• Cost Varies by Insurance Provider
  SR-22 insurance costs vary significantly between companies.
• Other Cost Factors
  Several other factors affect your SR-22 insurance costs:
  • Type of violation requiring the SR-22
  • Driving history
  • Age and gender
  • Location within Texas
  • Vehicle type
  • Credit score
  • Coverage levels

Compare SR-22 Quotes from Leading Affordable Providers Our website SR22Texas.org gets you connected to the top and cheapest auto insurance carriers in Texas and lets you choose the one that best fits your needs and budget. We’ve contacted more than 140 companies with agents represented inside our network. It’s not hard to find cheap SR-22 Texas insurance quotes here.

Need SR-22 insurance assistance? CALL our licensed Agents (Mon-Fri, 8am – 5pm PST) for personalized guidance, or use the following Comparison Tool to evaluate options from multiple Texas-licensed insurers (to Get Cheaper rates, compare quotes from MULTIPLE insurers):

Duration and Maintenance Requirements

• How Long is an SR-22 Required in Texas?
  In Texas, you typically need to maintain an SR-22 for two years from the date of your most recent conviction or when a judgment was rendered against you. This period must be continuous without any lapses in coverage.
• Maintaining Continuous Coverage
  It’s crucial to maintain your insurance policy without any lapses during the required SR-22 period. If your policy is canceled or lapses for any reason:
  • Your insurance company is required to notify the Texas DPS
  • Your driver’s license will be suspended again
  • You’ll need to file a new SR-22 and pay another $100 reinstatement fee
  • Your two-year requirement period could be reset

• Monitoring Your SR-22 Status
  You can check the status of your driver’s license and SR-22 by visiting this License Eligibility page on the Texas DPS website.

Non-Owner SR-22 Insurance

If you don’t own a vehicle but need an SR-22 to reinstate your license, you can obtain a non-owner SR-22 insurance policy.

What is Non-Owner SR-22 Insurance?

Non-owner insurance provides liability coverage when you drive vehicles you don’t own, such as borrowed or rented cars. This policy:

• Does not cover damage to the vehicle you’re driving
• Only provides liability coverage for injuries or damage to others
• Is typically less expensive than standard owner policies
• Satisfies the SR-22 filing requirement

SEE MORE DETAILS on the PAGE  → TX Non Owner SR-22 Insurance

Consequences of Failing to Maintain SR-22 Insurance

If you fail to maintain your SR-22 insurance in Texas, the consequences can be severe:

• Immediate license and registration suspension
• Requirement to pay another $100 reinstatement fee
• Need to file a new SR-22
• Possible reset of your two-year SR-22 requirement period
• Higher insurance rates due to the additional violation
• Potential for more serious legal penalties for repeat offenders

SR-22 vs. SR-22A in Texas

In some cases, Texas drivers might be required to file an SR-22A instead of a standard SR-22.

• What is SR-22A Insurance?
  An SR-22A is a variant of the SR-22 form typically required for habitual offenders, particularly those caught driving without insurance multiple times.
• Key Differences:
  • Payment structure: SR-22A typically requires payment of at least six months of premiums upfront
  • Often imposed after multiple instances of driving without insurance
  • Generally indicates a higher-risk designation by the state

More informations about SR-22A on the post SR-22A Insurance in Texas

Tips for Reducing SR-22 Insurance Costs

While SR-22 insurance is inevitably more expensive than standard policies, there are several strategies to help minimize costs:

1. Compare Multiple Quotes
   Insurance companies vary significantly in how they price SR-22 policies. Get quotes from at least 3-5 providers to find the best rate. Enter your ZIP code in our Provider Comparison tool above to review options from Licensed Texas insurers who offer SR-22 services, and in just a few seconds you’ll get the best quote available on the market.
2. Consider Minimum Coverage if Appropriate
   If you’re on a tight budget, opting for the minimum required liability coverage can help keep costs down. However, be aware that this provides limited protection.
3. Look for Discounts
   Even with an SR-22, you may qualify for discounts such as:
   1. Bundling policies (home and auto)
   2. Completing defensive driving courses
   3. Vehicle safety features
   4. Electronic billing or paperless statements
   5. Paying your premium in full
4. Improve Your Driving Record
   Maintain a clean driving record going forward to gradually lower your rates over time.
5. Complete DUI Classes or Programs
   Participating in state-approved DUI programs demonstrates a commitment to safer driving and might lower premiums from some insurers.
6. Consider a Non-Owner Policy if Applicable
   If you don’t own a vehicle, a non-owner SR-22 policy is typically much less expensive.
7. Inquire About High-Risk Programs
   Some insurers have special programs designed for high-risk drivers that can offer more competitive rates.

SR-22 Insurance Provider Comparison (Texas)

Notes:

• Rates are estimates based on a 35-year-old driver with one DUI offense as of May 2025
• Actual rates vary based on driving history, age, location within Texas, coverage limits, and other factors
• Minimum coverage meets Texas 30/60/25 requirements
• Full coverage includes comprehensive and collision with $500 deductible
• Always get personalized quotes from multiple providers
• Special discounts may be available based on your specific situation

                       SR-22 Filing Process in Texas

┌────────────────────┐     ┌────────────────────┐    ┌────────────────────┐
│  1. UNDERSTAND     │     │  2. SHOP FOR       │    │  3. PURCHASE       │
│  REQUIREMENTS      │     │  INSURANCE         │    │  POLICY            │
│                    │     │                    │    │                    │
│ • Verify if SR-22  │     │ • Compare quotes   │    │ • Select coverage  │
│   is required      │     │   from providers   │    │   (minimum 30/60/25│
│ • Determine type   │     │ • Check provider   │    │   liability)       │
│   needed (owner,   │     │   reputation       │    │ • Complete         │
│   non-owner, etc.) │     │ • Review discounts │    │   application      │
│ • Check duration   │     │   & features       │    │ • Make initial     │
│   (typically 2 yrs)│     │                    │    │   payment          │
└─────────┬──────────┘     └─────────┬──────────┘    └─────────┬──────────┘
          │                          │                         │
          ▼                          ▼                         ▼
┌────────────────────┐     ┌────────────────────┐    ┌────────────────────┐
│  4. REQUEST        │     │  5. INSURER FILES  │    │  6. VERIFY         │
│  SR-22 FILING      │     │  WITH TEXAS DPS    │    │  FILING            │
│                    │     │                    │    │                    │
│ • Explicitly ask   │     │ • Insurance company│    │ • Check status on  │
│   insurer to file  │     │   prepares SR-22   │    │   Texas DPS website│
│   SR-22 form       │     │   certificate      │    │ • Wait 5-21 days   │
│ • Pay one-time     │     │ • Files document   │    │   for processing   │
│   filing fee       │     │   electronically   │    │ • Confirm license  │
│   ($15-$50)        │     │   or by mail       │    │   eligibility      │
└─────────┬──────────┘     └─────────┬──────────┘    └─────────┬──────────┘
          │                          │                         │
          ▼                          ▼                         ▼
┌────────────────────┐     ┌────────────────────┐    ┌────────────────────┐
│  7. MAINTAIN       │     │  8. MONITOR        │    │  9. COMPLETE       │
│  INSURANCE         │     │  COMPLIANCE        │    │  REQUIREMENT       │
│                    │     │                    │    │                    │
│ • Ensure on-time   │     │ • Keep proof of    │    │ • Notify insurer   │
│   payments         │     │   coverage with you│    │   when requirement │
│ • Avoid coverage   │     │ • Set up automatic │    │   period ends      │
│   lapses           │     │   payments         │    │ • Verify with DPS  │
│ • Report any       │     │ • Calendar renewal │    │   that obligation  │
│   insurance changes│     │   dates            │    │   is fulfilled     │
└────────────────────┘     └────────────────────┘    └────────────────────┘

Key Reminders

1. Never let your policy lapse – If coverage is interrupted, your insurer must notify Texas DPS within 10 days, resulting in license suspension
2. Set up automatic payments – Most insurance lapses occur due to missed payments
3. Keep documentation – Maintain copies of all SR-22 filings and insurance documents
4. Drive safely – Additional violations can extend your SR-22 requirement period
5. Shop annually – Insurance rates often decrease after maintaining coverage for 6-12 months with no new incidents

Conclusion

Navigating SR-22 requirements in Texas can be challenging, but understanding the process is essential for reinstating your driving privileges legally. Remember that an SR-22 is a temporary requirement—maintain continuous coverage for the required period, practice safe driving habits, and eventually, you’ll be able to return to standard insurance rates.

If you’ve been ordered to obtain an SR-22, take immediate action to find an insurance provider, secure appropriate coverage, and complete the filing process. Being proactive not only helps you get back on the road legally but can also prevent additional penalties and complications.

Frequently Asked Questions About Texas SR-22 Insurance

1. How much does SR-22 insurance cost in Texas?

The SR-22 filing fee itself typically costs $15-$25, but insurance premiums with an SR-22 requirement average about $101 monthly for minimum coverage and $204 for full coverage. After a DUI, Texas drivers pay an average of $2,701 annually (source: Texas Department of Insurance Rate Filing Database, verified January 2025)

2. How long do I need to maintain an SR-22 in Texas?

You must maintain an SR-22 for two years from the date of your most recent conviction or when a judgment was rendered against you. This period must be continuous without any lapses in coverage.

3. Can I file an SR-22 myself in Texas?

No, you cannot file an SR-22 yourself. Only an insurance company authorized to do business in Texas can file the SR-22 on your behalf. You’ll need to purchase a policy that meets Texas minimum requirements and request that the company file the SR-22 form with the Texas DPS.

4. Can I get an SR-22 if I don’t own a car?

Yes, you can obtain a non-owner SR-22 insurance policy if you don’t own a vehicle. State Farm offers the most affordable non-owner SR-22 policies in Texas at approximately $36 monthly.

5. Will my insurance company cancel my policy if I need an SR-22?

Some insurance companies may cancel or refuse to renew your policy if you require an SR-22 filing. If this happens, you’ll need to find a new provider willing to file the SR-22 on your behalf.

6. How long does it take for the Texas DPS to process an SR-22?

It can take up to 21 business days for the Texas DPS to process your SR-22 filing. You can verify the status of your driver’s license on the Texas DPS website.

7. What happens if my insurance policy lapses while I have an SR-22?

If your policy lapses or is canceled during the SR-22 period, your insurance company must notify the Texas DPS, which will result in your license being suspended again. You’ll need to file a new SR-22 and pay another reinstatement fee.

8. What to do when my SR-22 is rejected?

SR-22 filings can sometimes be rejected by the Texas Department of Public Safety. Understanding why rejections happen and how to resolve them quickly is crucial to avoid extended license suspension periods and additional complications (read this post).

9. What’s the difference between SR-22 and SR-22A in Texas?

An SR-22A is typically required for habitual offenders, particularly those caught driving without insurance multiple times. The main difference is that SR-22A usually requires upfront payment of at least six months of premiums.

10. What’s the difference between SR-22 and standard auto insurance in Texas?

Standard auto insurance doesn’t require your insurer to notify the state if your policy lapses or is canceled. With an SR-22, your insurance company must immediately inform the Texas DPS if there’s any change in your coverage status, which can result in automatic license suspension. The coverage requirements are the same, but the state monitoring makes SR-22 different from standard insurance.

11. Can I get an SR-22 if I don’t have a driver’s license?

Yes, you can get an SR-22 even if your license is currently suspended or revoked. In fact, obtaining an SR-22 is often a requirement for reinstating a suspended license. The SR-22 shows that you have appropriate insurance coverage in place before your driving privileges are restored.

12. What happens if I move to another state while required to have an SR-22 in Texas?

If you move to another state while under an SR-22 requirement in Texas, you’ll need to maintain your Texas SR-22 for the duration of the requirement period. Additionally, you’ll need to comply with the insurance requirements of your new state of residence. Many states have reciprocal agreements regarding SR-22s, but requirements vary, so check with both Texas DPS and your new state’s DMV.

Stories from Our Community: Real SR-22 Experiences

Lisa, a resident of Austin, shares her journey, “After my DUI conviction, I was overwhelmed with the SR-22 process. However, with thorough research and seeking advice from professionals, I not only found affordable insurance but also understood the importance of this requirement. It’s been a learning curve, but I’m now more informed and cautious on the road.” Stories like Lisa’s highlight the challenges and learnings of individuals navigating the SR-22 process, offering readers both perspective and encouragement.

Stay Updated with SR-22 Regulations

SR-22 regulations, like many legal mandates, are subject to change. Whether it’s adjustments in minimum liability amounts, duration requirements, or associated fees, staying updated is crucial. We’re committed to providing our readers with the latest information on SR-22 in Texas. Bookmark our page and check back regularly for any updates or changes in the SR-22 landscape.

Sometimes, it might be a hassle to acquire an SR22 Texas car insurance policy. But, if you know all the requirements, you can obtain the proper coverage, get your driver’s license back and become a lawfully insured driver once more!

Additional Texas Resources:

1. 1. 1. Driver License Reinstatement
         For information about how to submit fees and compliance to the Department, visit the official government website Reinstating your Driver License
      2. Driver Eligibility Status
         To determine if you are eligible for reinstatement or to check the status of your driver license, visit the License Eligibility website
      3. Safety Responsibility Act
         The Safety Responsibility Act mandates that drivers suspended for specific violations must submit an SR-22 to the Department to keep their driver’s license: Safety Responsibility Act
      4. Driver License Enforcement Actions
         List of driver license revocations and suspensions. Enforcement Actions
      5. Alcohol, DWI and Drug Education Course Providers
         List of recommended courses (from the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation) for drivers with DUI or DWI: Education Courses
         
      6. Texas State Official Website
      7. Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV)
      8. Texas Department of Motor Vehicles – Online Services
      9. Texas Department of Transportation (DOT)
      10. Texas Department of Insurance (DOI)
      11. Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS)
      12. Texas Department of Public Safety – Online Services
      13. Texas Safety Report from Federal Highway Administration
      14. Impaired Driving, U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
      15. Drunk Driving, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration