What Happens if Your SR-22 Policy Lapses?

An SR-22 lapse can have serious consequences, affecting your ability to drive legally and your license. Understanding how SR-22 insurance works, what might cause your insurance to lapse, what happens when it lapses, and how to reinstate your license is critical to avoiding further complications.

What Is an SR-22 and Why Is It Important?

An SR-22 is not an insurance policy but a certificate of financial responsibility that your insurer files with the state to prove you have the minimum liability coverage required. It’s often required after a DUI, reckless driving charge, or other major violations. Maintaining continuous SR-22 coverage is vital to meeting SR-22 requirements and ensuring your driving privileges remain intact.

What Causes an SR-22 Policy to Lapse?

Several factors can lead to an SR-22 policy lapse, including:

• Missed payments: Failing to pay your insurance premiums on time is one of the most common reasons for a lapse.
• Policy cancellation or Non-renewal: If your insurer cancels your policy due to a violation of their terms or non-payment, or non-renews your policy, your SR-22 will no longer be valid.
• Switching insurers incorrectly: If you switch insurance providers without ensuring continuous SR-22 coverage, this can cause a lapse.
• Letting your policy expire: Allowing your auto policy to expire can lead to an SR-22 lapse, which creates gaps in your required coverage.

Being proactive and staying on top of payments and renewals can help you avoid these situations.

What Happens if Your SR-22 Lapses?

Following a policy lapse, your insurer must notify the state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) that your SR-22 is no longer valid, potentially leading to serious penalties. This notice, called an SR-26 form, informs the DMV that you no longer meet the financial responsibility requirements. As a result:

• Your driver’s license may be suspended. Without active SR-22 coverage, the DMV can revoke your driving privileges.
• You might face additional penalties. Depending on your state, penalties can include fines or an extended SR-22 requirement period.
• You’ll need to restart the SR-22 process. This can include finding a new insurer, paying reinstatement fees, and dealing with higher insurance premiums.

How Do I Reinstate My License if My SR-22 Lapsed?

If your SR-22 lapses and your license is suspended, follow these steps to reinstate it:

• Contact your DMV: Confirm the exact requirements to reinstate your license. Each state has its own process.
• Obtain a new SR-22 certificate: To reinstate your driving privileges, work with a licensed insurance provider specializing in reinstating SR-22 policies quickly and efficiently. Breathe Easy Insurance Solutions specializes in SR-22 insurance and can help you quickly get back on track.
• Pay reinstatement fees: Most states require you to pay a fee to lift the suspension on your license.
• Provide proof to the DMV: Once your new SR-22 form is filed, you’ll need to submit proof to the DMV to regain your driving privileges.

Is There an SR-22 Grace Period?

Most states do not offer a grace period for SR-22 lapses. Even a single day without coverage can lead to suspension. To avoid lapses:

• Track your policy’s expiration date. To prevent an SR-22 lapse, track your policy’s expiration date using tools like reminders or automatic payments.
• Set up automatic payments. Many insurers offer this feature to prevent missed payments.
• Stay proactive. Contact your insurance provider immediately if you anticipate any issues with your policy.

How Do I Find Out When My SR-22 Expires?

If you’re unsure about your SR-22 policy’s expiration date, here’s what you can do:

• Check your insurance policy documents: The expiration date is typically listed on your declarations page.
• Contact your insurer: They can provide you with the exact date your policy ends.
• Review DMV requirements: The duration of your SR-22 filing requirement varies by state, so confirm this with your DMV.

For detailed information about SR-22 insurance requirements in your state, visit our SR-22 state information page.

What Happens After SR-22 Requirements End?

Once you’ve fulfilled your state’s SR-22 requirement period, your insurer can file an SR-26 to remove the certificate. However, you’ll want to confirm your requirement is complete to avoid unnecessary penalties. Always maintain regular insurance coverage to stay compliant with state laws.

Need Help with SR-22 Insurance?

Navigating SR-22 insurance can be stressful, but you don’t have to do it alone. Contact Breathe Easy’s licensed insurance agents for SR-22 insurance support. Whether you need to reinstate your license or find a new SR-22 policy, our team is here to help.

For assistance with payment options on your existing policy, visit our Payment and Claims Center. If you’re also dealing with a DUI program, our DUI Program Directory can connect you to local resources.

An SR-22 lapse doesn’t have to disrupt your life—take proactive steps now to stay compliant and protect your driving privileges. Breathe Easy Insurance Solutions is just the right team to help you.