All individuals receiving court supervision for a mandatory insurance offense under authority Section 3-707 of the Illinois Vehicle Code are required by law to file proof of financial responsibility insurance (SR-22 certificate) with the Office of the Secretary of State. Individuals receiving three or more convictions for mandatory insurance violations also are required to file.
If you have recently requested an Illinois Drivers License Reinstatement Hearing, there are several things you will need to know before you can get back on the road. Due to your recent driving offenses, you should expect a significant change in your car insurance coverage.
What Is SR-22 Insurance?
To break it down even further, SR-22 insurance is a specialized type of insurance certificate required for individuals with a history of high-risk driving behavior, such as accidents, DUI convictions, or driving without insurance. It’s not an actual insurance policy but a document filed by your insurer with the state to prove you meet the minimum insurance requirements.
Essentially, SR-22 serves as a guarantee to the state that you’re financially responsible for any future accidents.
Why You Shouldn’t Drive Without Insurance or With a License Suspension
For high-risk drivers, driving without insurance or with a license suspension can lead to serious consequences. In Illinois, an SR-22 insurance certificate is often required for those who have had their licenses suspended due to various infractions. Driving without insurance not only puts you at financial risk but also increases the chances of legal penalties. Having an SR-22 insurance policy is not just a legal requirement; it’s a responsible choice that helps you regain your driving privileges while ensuring you’re covered in case of an accident.
In Illinois, How Soon Is SR-22 Required?
Once the Secretary of State mails your notice about a driver’s license suspension, you have 90 days from that date to obtain SR-22 insurance.
How Do I Obtain SR-22 Insurance?
If you have been convicted of a serious driving offense in Illinois, you are classified as an at-risk driver. After your Illinois Drivers License Reinstatement Hearing, you will need to purchase insurance. Immediately after you secure car insurance, your auto insurance company will file an SR-22 form on your behalf to the government which indicates that you carry the required car insurance coverage for your state for your classification.
The process to get SR-22 insurance is very similar to the normal process for purchasing from a car insurance company. If you have an existing policy you may be able to add your SR-22 to your policy through your insurance company. If your car insurance had been canceled due to your recent driving offense, then you must indicate that you require the SR-22 insurance on your application form.
Do I Need An SR22 To Reinstate My License?
Yes, you will need to file an SR-22 to reinstate your suspended driver’s license.
What Can I Expect With SR-22 Insurance?
SR-22 is very similar to standard car insurance, however, it will be much more expensive. Depending on the insurer, you may pay up to 50-80% more than typical car insurance as you have been classified as an at-risk driver. Even if you are not a car owner, you will be required to file an SR-22 for non-owner status. This is slightly less expensive than the typical SR-22 but can be costly.
How Long Will I Have SR-22 Insurance?
In Illinois, SR-22 insurance is required for three continuous years. If you do not renew your policy on time, then your license and registration will immediately be suspended and you will begin the driver’s license reinstatement process, including requesting a new Illinois Drivers License Reinstatement Hearing. After you have passed the required three years, you may cancel your SR-22 and secure regular car insurance.
If you move out of the state of Illinois you can waive your responsibility of filing an SR-22 in the state of Illinois by filing an affidavit, however, you will likely need to purchase SR-22 insurance in the new state.
How Much Is SR22 Insurance In Illinois?
In 2023, the average annual cost of SR-22 Insurance in Illinois is about $631. This is before insurance costs and other fees that the state requires you to pay. Unfortunately, the average cost of SR-22 can be nearly double or triple this cost in more populated areas of the state like Chicago.
Is There an Alternative to Securing SR-22 Insurance?
We understand that adding SR22 insurance in Chicago or any part of Illinois can be costly. Unfortunately, there are very few alternatives to SR-22 insurance as the state has flagged you as an at-risk driver, therefore, the alternatives are rare and costly. A deposit can be submitted instead of filing an SR-22, however, the deposit is $70,000 in cash. Alternatively, you could deposit a surety or real estate bond.
For more information visit the Secretary of State site.
