If you live in the U.S., you may already know that you typically need car insurance to drive legally in the country. But if you’re a driver who gets a moving violation or is caught operating a vehicle without proper coverage, you might be ordered by a court to file for a certificate of financial responsibility, otherwise known as an SR-22.  

But what is an SR-22, and how do I get one? Here, we’ll discuss what an SR-22 is and how you can find SR-22 insurance in Texas. With Infinity Insurance Agency, Inc. (IIA), we can help you file your SR-22 and get same-day proof of insurance, once payment is issued.  

Call IIA today at 1-855-478-3705 to get your free personalized quote!

What is an SR-22 in Texas?

Though sometimes referred to as insurance, an SR-22 isn’t an insurance policy. A Texas SR-22 is a certificate of financial responsibility that you typically file with the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) that proves you have the state-required minimum liability insurance.

Given that an SR-22 isn’t insurance, you would also need to purchase a policy with Texas’s minimum required auto insurance before filing. Our experienced agents understand state insurance requirements and can help you file your Texas SR-22 with Spanish or English assistance.  

Who needs an SR-22?  

So, how do you know if you need to file for an SR-22 in Texas? Typically, a court would order you to obtain one after specific violations. Some of these include:

• Driving under the influence
• Driving with a lapse in coverage  
• Driving with a cancelled policy
• Drivers who have multiple at-fault accidents  
• Court judgments involving bodily injury or property damage  

With IIA, we can help you verify what requirements you need to file your SR-22 and help you get same-day proof of insurance, once payment is finalized.  

How to file for an SR-22 in Texas

Getting SR-22 insurance in Texas may feel daunting, but the process is usually straightforward. Following these steps may be able to help you:

1. Get a quote: Receiving a personalized quote with IIA can help you understand what you may pay for a policy that aligns with your needs.
2. Purchase insurance: Once you get a quote, you can purchase a policy that has Texas’s minimum required liability insurance.  
3. File SR-22 with Texas DPS: Our agents can help you file your SR-22 with the state.  
4. Receive proof: Once your payment is finalized, we can help you receive same-day ID cards.   

When you file an SR-22, you typically will have to maintain your SR-22 for a minimum of two years. Making your premium payments in a timely fashion may also be helpful for you, since your Texas SR-22 may not be applicable if your insurance policy gets cancelled.  

How much does it cost to get an SR-22 in Texas?

The cost for filing an SR-22 may vary based on a combination of factors. These can include:

• SR-22 filing fee: You typically are charged a filing fee that can range between $15 and $50.
• Insurance premium impact: Having an SR-22 may increase your car insurance premium because it can reflect that you’re a higher-risk driver.  
• Driver profile: The price of your insurance policy may be determined by a variety of personal factors, like your driving history, violations, age, vehicle, and ZIP code.   

If you’re worried about the price of your insurance premium due to an SR-22, IIA can help you navigate your insurance options. Our agents can help you compare quotes from 20+ insurers so you can find a rate that matches your budget.  

Texas SR-22 requirements  

So, what is required to obtain and maintain an SR-22 in Texas? This may include:

• Keeping your SR-22 for two years, though this can vary based on your offenses, age, and location.  
• Meeting the deadline for when your certificate must be filed, which may be determined by your court order or the Texas Department of Public Safety.  
• Paying your insurance premium on time, because your coverage lapsing may lead to you filing your SR-22 again or incurring other infractions.  

How do you avoid having to file an SR-22?

If you’re worried about a court ordering you to get an SR-22, there are a couple of ways you may be able to avoid this situation. In Texas, having insurance that meets the state’s minimum coverage requirements may help you avoid having to file an SR-22. If you already have a policy, making sure your coverage doesn’t lapse can also help you evade certain financial or legal consequences.  

If you’re worried about finding a policy that meets state requirements, contact IIA. Our agents are familiar with Texas laws and can assist you in tailoring a policy that meets state mandates as well as your insurance needs.  

What IIA can offer you

Need help filing your SR-22 or looking to update your coverage? IIA’s Spanish-bilingual team can help you with your insurance journey. Whether you’re looking for flexible payment plans, non-owner insurance, or premium discounts, we work with 20+ reputable carriers that may help you find coverage that works for your budget.  

Reach out to an agent today at 1-855-478-3705 to learn more about SR-22 requirements and what insurance options may be available to you!  

SR-22 Texas FAQs  

What is SR-22 insurance in Texas?  

An SR-22 is a certificate of financial responsibility that’s typically filed with the Texas DPS. An SR-22 can prove that you carry the state’s required minimum liability insurance.

Who needs a Texas SR-22?  

You will need to file an SR-22 if you’re ordered by the Texas DPS or a court after specific violations.  

How much does SR-22 cost in Texas?  

Usually, you will have to pay a filing fee plus the amount for an insurance policy. The cost of your new policy may vary based on a combination of factors like age, severity of offenses, vehicle type, and location.  

How long do you need an SR-22 in Texas?  

Texas drivers typically have to maintain an SR-22 for two years, but requirements may depend on your order.  

Can I cancel my SR-22?  

Cancelling your SR-22 during the required period may lead to further insurance and legal issues.  

Does SR-22 raise your insurance rates?  

It typically can raise your insurance rates because having an SR-22 may signal to insurers that you’re a higher-risk driver.