By

Tito Bucheli

Updated

April 12, 2024

Edited By

Fausto Bucheli Jr
Image Credit: Pixabay

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Getting behind the wheel in Georgia requires having car insurance. But for some drivers, a standard insurance policy might not suffice. If you’ve faced certain driving violations, the state may mandate an SR22 as proof of financial responsibility. Cheap Insurance delves into the cost of SR22 insurance in Georgia, answering key questions for drivers searching for low priced car insurance.

Key Takeaways:

  • An SR22 filing is required by the Georgia DDS for drivers with certain violations like DUI/DWI, multiple traffic violations, or driving without insurance.
  • SR22 typically increases your car insurance premiums, but comparing car insurance quotes and maintaining a clean record can help reduce the costs.
  • The SR22 filing period varies depending on the violation, but it’s crucial to fulfill the entire court-mandated requirement.
  • Lapsing on SR22 insurance can lead to license suspension and challenges regaining driving privileges.
  • Prioritize continuous SR22 coverage, explore cost-saving strategies, and consult with the DDS or an attorney for specific questions regarding your situation.

What is an SR22 and Why Might I Need One in Georgia?

An SR22 is a financial responsibility filing submitted by your insurance company to the Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS). It verifies you hold car insurance that meets the state’s minimum liability requirements.

  • DUI/DWI: Driving under the influence (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI) convictions typically require an SR22 filing for several years.
  • Multiple Traffic Violations: Accumulating numerous moving violations within a certain timeframe and multiple speeding tickets may trigger an SR22 requirement.
  • Driving Without Insurance: Operating a vehicle without valid automobile insurance in Georgia can lead to an SR22 mandate for reinstatement of driving privileges.
  • Accident While Uninsured: If you cause an accident while uninsured, the state might require an SR22 filing.
Image Credit: Pixabay

How Much More Does SR22 Insurance Cost Compared to Regular Car Insurance in Georgia?

Unfortunately, having an SR22 typically translates to higher car insurance premiums compared to regular car insurance. The exact increase depends on various factors, including:

  • The violation that led to the SR22 requirement: More severe offenses like DUIs usually result in steeper premium hikes.
  • Your driving history: A clean driving record can help mitigate the cost increase associated with SR22 car insurance. This can help in securing inexpensive SR22 insurance.
  • Your age and experience: Younger drivers and those with limited experience generally pay higher auto insurance rates, and an SR22 can further amplify the cost.
  • Your car insurance company: Different insurers have varying pricing structures for SR22 insurance.


While it’s challenging to pinpoint an exact figure, estimates suggest SR22 insurance in Georgia can cost anywhere from $551 to $1,660 annually, depending on the factors mentioned above. This translates to a potential increase of $336 to $795 per year compared to regular car insurance.

Here’s a breakdown of estimated annual costs for SR22 insurance in Georgia based on violation type (source: Money Geek):

  • DUI: Minimum Coverage – $795, Full Coverage – $1,660
  • Non-DUI: Minimum Coverage – $551, Full Coverage – $1,094


It’s important to note: These are just estimates, and your actual cost may differ.

How Long Does an SR22 Stay on My Record?

The duration of your SR22 requirement varies depending on the violation and the court’s ruling. Here’s a general guideline:

  • DUI: Typically requires an SR22 filing for 3 years in Georgia.
  • Other Violations: The filing period may range from 2 to 3 years, depending on the specific violation.


It’s crucial to fulfill the entire SR22 filing period mandated by the court. Failure to do so can result in license suspension and potential reinstatement hurdles.

Can I Get Inexpensive SR22 Insurance in Georgia?

While SR22 insurance generally comes at a premium, there are strategies to potentially to find Cheap insurance for SR22:

  • Shop around: Comparing auto insurance quotes from multiple insurance companies is essential. Rates can vary significantly, so getting quotes from several providers can help you find the most affordable SR22.
  • Maintain a clean driving record: Avoiding further traffic violations during your SR22 filing period demonstrates responsibility and might lead to the lowest car insurance premiums when the requirement ends.
  • Ask about discounts: Some insurers offer discounts for completing defensive driving courses, maintaining good grades (for younger drivers), or insuring multiple vehicles with the same company gets you cheap insurance.
  • Consider non-owners SR22 insurance: If you don’t currently own a vehicle, you might be eligible for non-owners SR22 insurance, which will get you low cost insurance and it’s  cheaper than SR22 insurance for owned vehicles.

What Happens if My SR22 Insurance Lapses in Georgia?

Letting your SR22 insurance lapse can have serious consequences. Here’s what you can expect:

  • Your auto insurance company will notify the Georgia DDS: Upon a lapse in coverage, your insurer is legally obligated to inform the DDS.
  • License Suspension: The DDS will likely suspend your driver’s license, preventing you from legally operating a vehicle in Georgia.
  • Reinstatement Challenges: To regain driving privileges, you’ll need to:
    • Repay any outstanding insurance premiums to your insurance company.
    • File a new SR22 filing, potentially restarting the filing period mandated by the court.
    • Pay reinstatement fees to the DDS.
  • Potential Difficulty Obtaining Inexpensive Auto Insurance: A lapse in SR22 coverage can negatively impact your car insurance record, making it more challenging and expensive to obtain affordable car insurance in the future.
 

Here are some additional tips to avoid an SR22 lapse:

  • Set up automatic payments: Opting for automatic payments ensures your insurance is paid on time, preventing a lapse due to forgetfulness.
  • Choose a payment plan that works for you: Discuss flexible payment options with your automobile insurance company to avoid falling behind on payments.
  • Communicate with your insurer: If you encounter financial difficulties that might impact your ability to pay your insurance, contact your vehicle insurance company as soon as possible. Explain your situation and ask if they have low income auto insurance. They might be able to offer solutions.
Image Credit: Pixabay

SR22 insurance helps demonstrate financial responsibility to the state after certain driving violations. While it typically increases your car insurance price, shopping around by getting automobile insurance quotes, maintaining a clean record, and exploring car insurance discounts can help in finding cheap car insurance in Georgia.  Remember, fulfilling the entire SR22 filing period is vital to regaining driving privileges without further complications. By following the tips outlined in this article, you can navigate the SR22 requirement efficiently and get back on the road legally.