TL;DR: In Illinois, obtaining an SR-22 insurance certificate involves purchasing a car insurance policy (or updating your existing one) that meets the state’s minimum liability requirements and having your insurer file an SR-22 form with the Illinois Secretary of State. The SR-22 is simply a certificate proving you carry the required insurance for high-risk drivers. Your insurance company files this form on your behalf – you cannot file it yourself. Once processed (which can take up to 30 days), the SR-22 filing allows you to reinstate your driver’s license after suspensions due to incidents like DUIs or driving uninsured.
Illinois generally requires maintaining the SR-22 for three years with no lapses in coverage. If the SR-22 policy cancels or expires prematurely, your insurer must notify the state and your license will be suspended again. For quick help with an SR-22 filing in Illinois, call Insure on the Spot at 773-202-5060– we can get your SR-22 filed electronically and guide you through the process.
What is an SR-22 Insurance Certificate in Illinois?
In Illinois, an SR-22 form is filed with the Secretary of State (the Illinois DMV) by your insurance company, certifying that your policy meets at least the state’s minimum liability requirements. Illinois law mandates liability coverage of at least $25,000 for injury or death per person, $50,000 per accident for multiple injuries, and $20,000 for property damage. The SR-22 filing is essentially the state’s way of monitoring high-risk drivers (e.g. those with serious traffic violations) to ensure they carry the required insurance.
You might be required to obtain an SR-22 in Illinois if you’ve had your license suspended or revoked due to certain violations. Common reasons include a DUI/DWI conviction, driving without insurance, accumulating multiple traffic offenses, or being at-fault in an accident while uninsured. In Illinois, financial responsibility insurance (SR-22) is specifically required for problem drivers – for example, those with safety-related suspensions, unsatisfied judgment suspensions, three or more insurance violations, or similar high-risk classifications.
How do I apply for an SR-22 insurance in Illinois?
Applying for an SR-22 in Illinois is a multi-step process, but it boils down to getting the right insurance and letting the insurer handle the filing:
Contact an authorized Illinois insurer
Not all insurance companies offer SR-22 filings in every state. You will need to find an auto insurer (like Insure on the Spot) that is authorized to issue SR-22 policies in Illinois. If you already have auto insurance, start by asking your current provider if they can add an SR-22 filing. Many major insurers do, but if yours does not (or if you’ve been dropped due to the violation), you’ll need to shop for a company specializing in high-risk auto insurance. Insure on the Spot, for example, specializes in helping high-risk Illinois drivers and can file SR-22s electronically on your behalf (often instantly).
Purchase a policy or add coverage
To get an SR-22, you must have an active auto insurance policy in your name that meets Illinois’ minimum coverage requirements. If you don’t own a car, you can purchase a non-owner SR-22 policy (more on that below). If you do own a vehicle, ensure your new or existing policy includes at least the state-minimum liability limits. The policy must be effective before the SR-22 can be filed. Illinois requires the SR-22 form to come directly from the insurance provider’s home office, with a power of attorney on file in Illinois – meaning an insurance agent can’t just hand you the form; it’s filed by the company electronically or via mail.
Pay the SR-22 filing fee
When you request an SR-22, your insurer will charge a small filing fee, typically ranging from $15 to $50 in Illinois. This is a one-time administrative fee for submitting the certificate. The fee amount may vary by insurer, but it’s generally modest (around $25 on average). Make sure to pay this fee so the insurer can process your SR-22 request without delay.
Insurer files the SR-22 form
After you’ve secured coverage and paid the fee, your insurance company will file the SR-22 form with the Illinois Secretary of State’s office for you. You do not file the SR-22 yourself – only an insurer can submit the official form (sometimes called a Financial Responsibility Certificate) on your behalf. In Illinois, SR-22s are often filed electronically directly to the state. Once filed, processing by the state can take up to 30 days, although often it’s faster. You will typically receive a copy of the SR-22 certificate from your insurer and a confirmation letter from the Secretary of State.
Verify your license status
After the SR-22 is processed and on file, it will allow the reinstatement of your driving privileges if they were suspended due to the violation. You may need to pay any reinstatement fee to the Secretary of State as well, but the SR-22 is the key proof of insurance required for reinstatement. It’s wise to verify with the Illinois Driver Services Department (or check your driving record) that the SR-22 was received and your license hold is lifted. Insure on the Spot can assist customers by confirming the state has received the SR-22 filing.
Note: The SR-22 certificate can be issued in different forms depending on your situation. If you own a vehicle, an Owner’s Certificate will cover that specific vehicle (or all vehicles you own). If you don’t own a car, an Operator’s Certificate (non-owner SR-22) will cover you when driving any non-owned vehicle. There’s also an Operator-Owner’s Certificate for comprehensive coverage of any vehicle you own or borrow. Make sure your insurer files the correct type of SR-22 that fits your needs (they will typically determine this based on whether you have a car titled to you).
How long do I need to maintain an SR-22 in Illinois?
You are generally required to maintain your SR-22 insurance filing for three consecutive years in Illinois. This three-year clock starts from the date your driver’s license driving privileges are reinstated or the SR-22 is required (for example, from the date of suspension or conviction that triggered it, once you’ve filed the SR-22). During this period, you must keep your insurance policy active at all times. If your SR-22 insurance coverage lapses, is canceled, or expires at any point in the required term, the insurance company is obligated to send an SR-26 cancellation notice to the state. Upon receiving an SR-26, the Illinois Secretary of State will suspend your license again, effective immediately, for failing to maintain the SR-22 requirement.
A lapse or cancellation not only results in suspension, but it also resets the clock on your SR-22 requirement. Essentially, any interruption could mean you have to start the three-year requirement over or face extended penalties. Illinois law even specifies that failing to continuously maintain a prior SR-22 filing for the full term can itself trigger another SR-22 requirement. Therefore, it’s critical to renew your policy on time. The Illinois Secretary of State advises renewing an SR-22 policy at least 45 days before it expires to avoid any gap. Insurance companies are required by law to alert the state if a renewal isn’t received within 15 days of policy expiration, so do not let your coverage slip even for a day during the mandated period.
In most cases, three years is the magic number in Illinois. After you’ve maintained SR-22 coverage for the full three-year period (without any lapses or further violations), the requirement is lifted. At that point, your insurer can remove the SR-22 filing from your policy at your request, and you can continue with standard insurance. However, for very serious or repeat offenses, the state or court could require a longer SR-22 period. For instance, multiple DUI convictions or severe offenses might lead to a 5-year SR-22 requirement. This is less common, but it’s important to check your specific case – your suspension notice or the judge’s order will typically state how long you need to carry the SR-22. Always confirm with the Illinois Driver Services or court if unsure about your required term.
How much does SR-22 insurance cost in Illinois?
The SR-22 filing fee itself is small (usually $15-$50 as a one-time charge), but the real cost of SR-22 insurance comes from the higher premiums you’ll likely pay as a high-risk driver. The SR-22 designation signals to insurers that you’ve had a serious violation, so you’ll be viewed as riskier to insure. Auto insurance companies generally charge more if you require an SR-22, not because of the form, but because of what it implies about your driving record. In Illinois, a driver with a recent DUI (which is a common reason for an SR-22) might see insurance quotes 50% to 80% higher than a comparable driver with a clean record. For example, one analysis found a quote of about $994 per year with an SR-22 (after a DUI) for a sample Illinois driver, which was 65% higher than the rate without the SR-22.
It’s important to note that SR-22 insurance is not a special type of coverage you buy separately – it’s your regular liability insurance policy, just with the SR-22 certificate filed. The base premiums will depend on factors like your age, vehicle, and location, plus the impact of the violations on your record. Because of the violations, you’ll lose any good-driver discounts and could be placed with insurers that specialize in high-risk policies (which often have higher rates). To keep costs manageable, Illinois drivers who need SR-22 should shop around and compare quotes from multiple providers. Rates can vary widely; some companies are more forgiving for certain violations than others.
Also, consider if you actually need to insure a vehicle you own or if you can go with a non-owner SR-22 policy (if you don’t have a car). Non-owner policies typically offer just liability coverage when you occasionally drive someone else’s car, and they tend to be cheaper than owner policies. This can be a way to satisfy the SR-22 requirement at a lower cost if you don’t need a full auto policy (more details on this below). Finally, after the SR-22 period, assuming your record stays clean, your insurance rates should gradually go back down. The SR-22 itself doesn’t permanently hike your rates; it’s the underlying violations that insurers rate you on. Over time (3-5 years after the incident), those violations will matter less, and you can hopefully transition back to standard insurance at a better price.
Can I get an SR-22 in Illinois if I don’t own a car?
Non-owner SR-22 insurance is essentially a liability policy that covers you as a driver when operating vehicles you don’t own (for example, when borrowing a friend’s car or renting a car occasionally). It exists to allow individuals whose licenses are suspended (often for DUI or other infractions) to get their license reinstated even if they don’t have a personal car. In fact, Illinois explicitly provides an “Operator’s Certificate” SR-22 form for this purpose, which covers the motorist for any non-owned vehicle they drive.
A non-owner SR-22 policy typically costs less than an owner’s policy because it provides limited coverage – usually liability only, and it’s secondary to the vehicle owner’s insurance. It’s the most affordable way to satisfy the SR-22 requirement for someone who doesn’t have a car. Keep in mind a few conditions for non-owner SR-22 insurance: you must truly not own a car and not have regular access to a household vehicle. If you live with someone (like a spouse or family member) whose car you often drive, insurers may require that you be listed on that car’s policy instead of issuing a separate non-owner policy. Non-owner SR-22 is designed for folks who only drive occasionally and don’t have a vehicle in their household.
To get a non-owner SR-22, you go through the same steps with an insurance provider – just inform them you need a “non-owner” SR-22 filing. For example, Insure on the Spot can file a non-owner SR-22 for you to help reinstate your license even if you don’t have a car (this is a common scenario for city drivers or those who sold their car after an incident). The coverage will satisfy Illinois’ requirements and allow you to get your license back. Just remember, non-owner insurance won’t cover damage to any car you drive or comprehensive/collision, since it’s liability-only. It’s truly there only to cover others’ injuries or property damage if you drive someone else’s car and to prove to the state you’re insured. Once your SR-22 period is over or if you buy a car, you’ll need to update your insurance accordingly.
What happens if my SR-22 insurance lapses or is canceled in Illinois?
If your SR-22 insurance policy lapses (even for a short period) or is canceled before you’ve satisfied the required term, Illinois will be notified and your driver’s license will be suspended. Insurance companies are required by law to submit an SR-26 cancellation notice to the state if an SR-22 policy terminates. Upon receiving an SR-26, the Secretary of State’s office will suspend your driving privileges immediately – essentially undoing your license reinstatement. The suspension for an SR-22 lapse will remain until you re-file a new SR-22 and get your insurance back in force.
A lapse can occur for various reasons: missing a payment, canceling the policy early, or even switching insurance companies without proper overlap. To avoid this, never let your SR-22 policy expire until you’re formally cleared by the state. If you need to switch insurers for a better rate, time it such that the new policy’s SR-22 filing is in place before the old one ends (and ideally inform the state or confirm with them to avoid any misunderstanding). Illinois requires continuous coverage; any break can extend your SR-22 obligation or lead to other penalties. For instance, a gap might mean the three-year clock restarts from zero once you file again.
In the event of a lapse, contact your insurer or agent immediately to see if you can reinstate the policy (sometimes there’s a grace period for missed payments). If not, you’ll need to obtain a new SR-22 policy right away. Keep in mind that after a lapse-induced suspension, Illinois may impose a fee to reinstate your license again, and repeated lapses could result in longer monitoring periods.
Does Illinois require an FR-44, or just an SR-22?
Illinois does not use FR-44 certificates. The only financial responsibility filing required in Illinois for high-risk drivers is the SR-22. An FR-44 is a similar type of form used in some states (notably Florida and Virginia) that typically mandates higher liability coverage limits (often double the state minimum) for certain offenses like DUI. You may have heard of FR-44 in contexts of those states, but Illinois only requires SR-22 filings to restore driving privileges – there is no FR-44 requirement here.
What if I move out of Illinois while I have an SR-22 requirement?
Moving out of Illinois does not automatically remove your obligation to maintain an SR-22 if it was required here. Illinois expects you to continue meeting its SR-22 insurance requirements for the full term, even if you relocate, unless you take specific action. One option for those leaving the state is to file an Out-of-State Affidavit Waiver with the Illinois Secretary of State. This affidavit (if approved) essentially lets Illinois know you are no longer a resident and asks them to waive the SR-22 requirement for Illinois. However, there are important caveats: the waiver only applies as long as you remain out of Illinois. If you move back to Illinois within three years of the waiver, the SR-22 requirement gets reinstated for the balance of time you had left.
In many cases, if you move to another state, that state will have its own SR-22 or similar requirement you must abide by. Most states honor each other’s financial responsibility requirements. For instance, if your Illinois license is suspended or has an SR-22 requirement, you may not be able to obtain a new license in your new state until you clear the Illinois requirement (either by maintaining insurance or obtaining the waiver). Often the simplest path is to keep an SR-22 policy active in Illinois until your term is done, even if you live elsewhere. Many national insurance companies can file an SR-22 in Illinois on your behalf even if your correspondence address is in another state, as long as you originally incurred the violation in Illinois.
If you’re moving into Illinois and already have an SR-22 from another state, you should notify your insurance company. You’ll likely need to get an Illinois policy and have a new SR-22 filed for Illinois, especially if you want an Illinois driver’s license. Illinois will enforce its own SR-22 rules for new residents if they’re coming off a suspension elsewhere. The key point is: changing states doesn’t let you dodge the SR-22. Either stick with it until done or go through the proper waiver process with the Illinois Secretary of State. It’s wise to consult the Illinois Driver Services and the new state’s DMV to ensure you remain in compliance in both places during a move.
What should I remember when applying for SR-22 insurance in Illinois?
When applying for SR-22 coverage in Illinois, keep these key points in mind (they’re the “things to remember” throughout the process):
Maintain continuous coverage
Once your SR-22 policy is in effect, do not allow it to lapse for the entire required period (usually 3 years). Continuous coverage is mandatory. Any interruption will lead to a license suspension and could extend your SR-22 requirement.
Meet Illinois’ minimum insurance requirements
Your auto policy must at least meet Illinois’ 25/50/20 minimum liability limits for the SR-22 to be valid. Ensure your coverage satisfies these state requirements; otherwise, your SR-22 filing won’t be accepted.
Pay the SR-22 filing fee
Don’t forget to pay the small SR-22 fee (about $25 on average in Illinois). Your insurer won’t file the certificate without this fee. It’s a one-time cost each time you file an SR-22 (for example, at policy inception or if you change companies).
Use an authorized insurer
Make sure you obtain the SR-22 through an insurance company licensed in Illinois that offers SR-22 filings. An out-of-state or unapproved insurer cannot file the Illinois SR-22. Insure on the Spot, for instance, is authorized to issue SR-22 policies statewide. Not all big-name insurers do SR-22 for Illinois, so confirm this upfront.
Plan for the filing process and timeline
Build in a time cushion for the state to process your SR-22. It can take up to 30 days for the Illinois Secretary of State to update your records (though often quicker). During this time, if you’re waiting to reinstate your license, refrain from driving until you get confirmation. Also, plan to renew early – start the renewal process at least a month or two before your policy expiration each year to avoid any gaps.
Consider alternatives if standard SR-22 isn’t viable
In rare cases, if you cannot get SR-22 insurance (for example, due to unique circumstances), Illinois allows alternatives like depositing $70,000 cash or a surety bond with the state. These options are costly and uncommon, but they exist as a last resort. Most drivers, however, find it easier to go through an insurance filing.
Finally, remember that Insure on the Spot is here to help Illinois drivers navigate SR-22 requirements. We offer immediate SR-22 filings and can often e-file your SR-22 the same day you get insured. If you have questions or need to get SR-22 insurance quickly, call us at 773-202-5060 or visit our SR-22 Insurance page for a free quote. Staying informed and prepared will make the SR-22 process much smoother and ensure you get back on the road legally and safely.
Frequently Asked Questions about SR-22 Insurance in Illinois
What is an SR-22 in Illinois?
It’s a certificate of financial responsibility that an insurance company files with the Illinois Secretary of State to prove you carry at least the minimum required liability insurance. The SR-22 itself isn’t insurance; it’s an addendum to your auto policy that the state mandates for certain high-risk drivers.
Who needs to file an SR-22 in Illinois?
Drivers who have had serious violations or license suspensions often need an SR-22. In Illinois, this includes people with DUI convictions, those caught driving without insurance, drivers with multiple traffic offenses, or anyone the state deems a “problem driver” requiring proof of insurance. The SR-22 is required to reinstate driving privileges after such incidents.
How do I get an SR-22 insurance in Illinois?
You obtain an SR-22 through an auto insurance company. First, you need to have an active car insurance policy that meets Illinois’ minimum coverage. Then, your insurer files the SR-22 form on your behalf with the state. You’ll pay a small filing fee (around $25) for this service. You cannot file the SR-22 yourself – it must come from the insurer.
How long do I have to keep the SR-22 on file?
Illinois usually requires an SR-22 to be maintained for three years from the date of reinstatement or conviction. This means you must keep continuous insurance coverage with an SR-22 endorsement for 36 months straight. If you violate this (i.e., let it lapse), the clock may reset and your license will be suspended until you re-comply.
How much does SR-22 insurance cost?
The administrative cost for filing an SR-22 is low (tens of dollars), but insurance premiums will be higher because you’re seen as a high-risk driver. Illinois drivers with an SR-22 (say after a DUI) might pay anywhere from 50% to 80% more for car insurance than drivers with clean records. Shopping around can help you find a better rate even with the SR-22.
Can I get an SR-22 if I don’t own a car?
Yes. Illinois allows non-owner SR-22 policies for individuals who don’t own a vehicle. This is essentially a liability-only insurance policy that lets you fulfill the SR-22 requirement and get your license reinstated, even if you don’t have a car. It covers you when driving non-owned cars on an occasional basis.
What happens if my SR-22 policy lapses?
If your SR-22 insurance cancels or lapses, your insurer will send a notice to the state (an SR-26 form) and your license will be suspended again immediately. You’ll then have to re-file a new SR-22 and possibly start the requirement period over. It’s crucial to avoid any gaps in coverage during your SR-22 term.
Does Illinois require an FR-44 for DUI offenses?
No, Illinois does not use FR-44 forms. Only the SR-22 is required in Illinois for financial responsibility. FR-44 exists in a couple of other states (like Florida and Virginia) and mandates higher insurance limits for certain offenses, but Illinois only requires SR-22 filings, even for DUI cases.
Can I drop SR-22 insurance once my license is reinstated?
Not immediately. Reinstating your license is just the first step – you must maintain the SR-22 insurance for the full required period (typically 3 years) before you can drop it. After that period, and once you have confirmation from Illinois that you’ve satisfied the requirement, you can notify your insurer to remove the SR-22 filing from your policy.
How do I know when I can stop the SR-22?
You should receive notification from the Illinois Secretary of State or have a specific end date from your original suspension notice. Generally, if you’ve gone three years from the date the SR-22 was required (with no lapses), you’re eligible to cancel the SR-22. It’s best to contact the Secretary of State’s office to confirm you’ve met the obligation before canceling your SR-22 policy.