How to Get Non-Owner SR-22 Insurance
Why You Can Trust EverQuote
EverQuote powers millions of shopper requests every month, teaming up with industry-leading insurance specialists to address real-world challenges faced by people every day. We partner with the largest insurance providers in the nation, and our content is carefully crafted by experts and reviewed by licensed insurance agents for accuracy and relevance.
SR-22 insurance is a certificate for drivers who need to show proof of liability insurance to the state. This proof comes in the form of an SR-22 (or FR-44 in some states). The most common reasons for needing an SR-22 include past traffic violations, accidents, driving under the influence (DUI), or a suspended license.
In some cases, you might need an SR-22 even if you don’t currently own a car. Your insurance company is responsible for filing the SR-22 form with the state, but not all insurers offer this service.
If your current provider doesn’t handle SR-22s, you’ll need to find a new one. To simplify the process, EverQuote can connect you to insurance companies that provide SR-22 filing.
Meeting your legal requirements isn’t as complicated as it sounds. Just keep reading and we’ll tell you everything you need to know about non-owner SR-22 insurance, who needs it, and how to get it.
Who Needs Non-Owner SR-22 Insurance?
Though often referred to as insurance, an SR-22 is a financial responsibility certificate often required due to numerous traffic violations or a major driving offense.
Key Features and Liability Coverage
An SR-22 proves that you carry the required liability coverage for your state. Depending on your state’s laws, non-owner insurance may be required for high-risk drivers who don’t own a car and whose driver’s license has been suspended or revoked.
Liability insurance is a type of coverage that protects you financially if you're found responsible for causing property damage or bodily injury to others. Liability insurance doesn’t cover your own medical bills or vehicle damage.
While it may not be required by your state, consider adding other types of coverage, like collision and comprehensive insurance, to your policy. They protect against significant financial loss resulting from accidents.
Eligibility and Duration of Coverage
If you need an SR-22 or FR-44, the court or your state's department of motor vehicles (DMV) will let you know. For a non-owner SR-22, you must not currently own a vehicle.
You may be ordered to file a non-owner SR-22 insurance policy if you’ve been convicted of a traffic offense or other serious infraction such as:
- Driving under the influence (DUI)
- Driving while intoxicated (DWI)
- Reckless driving
- Driving without insurance
- Driving without a license
- Failing to pay child support
You will need to have an SR-22 for the duration of your license suspension or revocation period before your driving privileges are reinstated. Most states require SR-22 coverage for a period averaging three years.
How Non-Owner SR-22 Insurance Works
An SR-22 is not an insurance policy but rather a form that proves you have the state-mandated minimum liability coverage. The actual insurance policy is separate and must meet state requirements. A non-owner SR-22 policy acts as secondary coverage and kicks in after any primary insurance is exhausted.
Non-owner SR-22 is not tied to a specific vehicle. If you’re driving a rental car or a friend’s car, your SR-22 will apply.
Filing an SR-22 Form
An SR-22 is filed by your insurance company with the state. Check with your current insurance provider to ask whether it handles non-owner SR-22s. If not, you can use EverQuote’s free comparison tool to find the right provider for you.
Comparing Non-Owner SR-22 Insurance Options
When you’re required to carry an SR-22 non-owner car insurance policy, you need to have auto insurance in place first. If you don’t have insurance, start by comparing various options to get the best deal possible.
Before you purchase a policy, confirm that the provider you choose can file a non-owner SR-22 for you. These are some other important factors to consider:
- Premium rates: Different insurance companies have varying rates for similar coverage. Take time to compare quotes to find the most competitive pricing.
- Coverage limits: Verify that the liability limits meet your state’s minimum requirements. Keep in mind that higher liability coverage means higher premiums and you’ll want to find the right balance between coverage and cost.
- Customer reviews: Research online customer reviews for potential insurance providers to see how they score on customer service and support.
Costs and Expenses
Filing an SR-22 may be free or carry a minimal charge, generally between $15 and $50 depending on your insurance company. The cost of an insurance policy varies based on several factors, including your driving record. A clean driving record lowers your premiums, while a history of violations or accidents may increase costs.
EverQuote lets you compare non-owner SR-22 insurance online for free to help you find the most affordable and suitable policy for your situation.
Securing the Right Non-Owner SR-22 Insurance
If you’ve had your driver’s license revoked due to a DUI or other traffic violation, your state may require an SR-22 if you plan to drive again after your license is reinstated. The SR-22 acts as a certificate of financial responsibility, showing that you meet your state's minimum insurance requirements. This is true even if you currently don’t own a car.
Getting an SR-22 non-owner policy filed on your behalf is easier than it sounds. Work with your insurance provider or choose a new one that handles SR-22 filing and offers competitive rates.
The best way to find the right insurance at the right price is to compare and shop often. Insurance rates vary significantly based on zip code and driver profile, so get your custom comparison free with EverQuote today!