Choosing A Better Insurance Plan

Important Things To Know About SR-22 Certificates

by Isabella Torres

Most people are not familiar with the term SR-22 certification. SR-22 certification is related to auto insurance, but it is not a type of insurance policy. Instead, it is a certificate that you either obtain from your insurance company or have filed on your behalf by the insurance company that proves to your state of residence that you are carrying auto insurance. If you are required to provide the state with a SR-22 certificate, your insurance situation may become more complicated, but it does not have to be a huge hassle. Continue reading to learn more about SR-22 certification:

Reasons an SR-22 Certificate May Be Required

One of the most common reasons that the court or state will require an individual to file an SR-22 certificate is due to a DUI conviction. Other reasons an SR-22 certificate may be required include causing an auto accident and not having auto insurance, a reckless driving conviction, being pulled over and ticketed without carrying auto insurance, or as a condition of having a suspended license reinstated. If you are ordered to file an SR-22 certificate with your state, make sure you do so before operating any motor vehicle. Operating a motor vehicle without having a mandated SR-22 certificate on file can lead to a lot of legal problems.

Understand that Your Insurance Rates Will Go Up

If you are required to obtain an SR-22 certificate, understand that your insurance rates will go up. The reason for this is two-fold: a person who is mandated to have an SR-22 certificate on file is deemed a higher risk to insure, and the reason that you need an SR-22 will be noted on your driving record. DUIs, serious moving violations such as reckless driving, and operating a vehicle without insurance are considered major infractions in the eyes of an insurance company. Your current insurance company may continue to insure you, but your premiums may go up. Some insurance companies will cancel a policy if a person is required to have an SR-22 certificate, so you may have to switch insurance companies.

An SR-22 Certificate is Not Required Forever

Being ordered to obtain an SR-22 certificate can be very frustrating and stressful. An increase in auto insurance premiums can also be hard on a person's budget. But it is important to know that you will not be required to have an SR-22 certificate forever. If you avoid causing auto accidents and do not get any tickets, the order to have an SR-22 certificate will expire after a set amount of time. 

To find out more, contact a resource that offers SR-22 insurance policies in order to learn more.

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