How Does SR-22 Insurance Work?

In Illinois, many drivers are required to purchase SR-22 insurance. An SR-22 is not a real insurance policy and does not replace regular automobile insurance. A valid Illinois SR22 certificate proves that the driver has the required amount of liability insurance coverage. It’s a kind of proof of insurance that is only for drivers with a significant driving violation on their record.

How do Illinois Drivers Get an SR-22?

To prove they have liability insurance, drivers in Illinois who have been convicted of certain traffic infractions must purchase an SR-22. If a driver’s license is revoked, they will need to get an SR-22 before the license can be reinstated. Here are a few examples of when a motorist in Illinois would be required to obtain an SR-22:

  • A DUI or DWI
  • Reckless driving
  • Multiple traffic violations
  • Multiple at-fault accidents
  • Serious accident
  • Driving with no insurance
  • Not paying child support when ordered to

Regardless of the nature or severity of the violation, drivers in the state of Illinois carry their SR-22 for three years on average. SR-22 insurance comes in the following forms:

  • Operator’s Certificate – When driving a rented car, the driver is covered.
  • Owner’s Certificate – Every vehicle driven by a person is covered. For each motor vehicle registered in the driver’s name, an SR-22 must be obtained.
  • Operators-Owners Certificate – Vehicles that are utilized by the driver, as well as those used while driving a borrowed car.

Instead of purchasing an SR-22, drivers in Illinois may choose to make a deposit of $70,000 with the State Treasurer, file a real estate bond approved by a court of record, or file a surety bond with the Department of Motor Vehicles. An affidavit is an agreement that allows out-of-state drivers to waive their proof of financial responsibility requirements.


Illinois motorists who have an SR-22 on their record are required to have their certificate renewed every year. Drivers must renew their SR-22 insurance 45 days before its expiration date in order for it to remain valid.

If the driver’s SR-22 is canceled or expires because they have not used their car for a long period of time, they will be subject to additional fines and possible penalties. If your insurance provider does not receive a formal request to renew the SR-22 at least 15 days before the end of the term, they must notify the Secretary of State’s office.

Illinois SR-22 Cost

SR-22 insurance is readily available to drivers in Illinois at a low price, and the filing fee is fair. However, drivers with SR-22s will face some high fines. For example, suspended drivers must pay a license reinstatement fee, which can range from $70 to $500 per suspension.

After a driving suspension is imposed, a driver must pay $250 to have their license reinstated. The fine for two or more infractions is $500. For a traffic suspension, the return payment is $70 per suspension.

SR-22 holders will also see their car insurance costs rise. Insurance companies charge more for the extra risk since these drivers are more likely to file claims. After three yea

Previous Post Next Post
hiddnetech.com does not generate or scan any PDF files. We provide these on the internet already. If the author/publisher/owner of the file has any objection about any file, Please email us ([email protected]) with the file name and proof. We will remove the file quickly. thank you