Texas SR22 Insurance

Texas SR22 Insurance – Questions and Answers

The state of Texas requires an SR22 filing if you have been driving without insurance or other violations such as driving under the influence of alcohol. The Texas SR22 form is mandatory for two years from the date of conviction. 

What if I don’t own a car, can I still get an SR-22? 

Yes, if you don’t own a vehicle you can still get a Texas Non-Owner SR22 form. This type of policy will still meet the requirements of the state for liability insurance but is not related to any specific vehicle. 

I let my SR22 insurance policy lapse, what happens now? 

If you have cancelled your auto insurance policy with the SR-22 form the state will be notified immediately by the insurance company. Your driver’s license may be suspended again and the suspension period may start over again. It is in your best interest to maintain the Texas SR-22 filing for the full period. 

How much does SR22 insurance cost in Texas? 

Most insurance companies will charge a filing fee of $15 to $40 to add the SR22 filing to an auto insurance policy. The type of policy can be liability only, full coverage, or a non-owner policy. With regards to the cost of such policy it truly depends on the following factors and not directly related to the Texas SR22 filing:

• Age
• Address
• Credit History
• Driving Record
• Vehicle Model

Can I just submit my evidence of insurance to the state for a Texas SR22? 

No, the Texas SR22 form is a certificate the insurance company sends electronically to the state. Your proof of insurance is not sufficient to show financial responsibility if you are required to carry a Texas SR22.

Texas SR22 Insurance Requirements

When you file SR22 insurance in Texas the state requires that the minimum liability limits be in force on the policy for two years. The minimum liability insurance limits are:

• $30k Per Person Bodily Injury
• $60k Per Accident Bodily Injury
• $25k Property Damage

While these limits are minimum they are rarely recommended levels of coverage. It will increase your auto insurance premium if you raise the liability limits but it provides more protection at a small increase. Ask your insurance agent what they recommend based on your financial position.

Suspended License Reinstatement Requirements in Texas

In order to reinstate your Texas driver’s license you will be required to:

• Pay reinstatement fee:
  • $125 Blood/Breath Test Refusal
  • $100 DWI
  • $100 Drug Offenses
  • $100 Traffic Violations
  • $100 Medical Revocation
• Submit proof of a Texas SR-22 insurance policy to Texas DPS
• If applicable, submit certificate of completion for repeat offenders DWI program. (Only if required by court)

Texas DUI Law

State Blood Alcohol Concentration Levels:

• Under age 21 = BAC .02 or higher
• CDL drivers = BAC .04 or higher
• All drivers = BAC .08 or higher

The fine for your first drunk driving offense in Texas is $2,000 and a mandatory 72 hours jail time. Your drivers license will be suspended for a minimum of 90 days but no more than 1 year. Implied Consent Law Every driver who receives a driver’s license consents to a chemical test of their blood, breath, or urine to determine their BAC. The refusal of this test will revoke your license and a temporary license will be issued. A Texas SR22 will be required.

Texas IID (Ignition Interlock Device)

An ignition interlock device is required when a driver must maintain an interlock license. This type of license authorizes the driver to operate a motor vehicle equipped with an IID. The cost to install and maintain the IID is the sole responsibility of the driver. Here are some approved installation centers: LifeSafer Interlock Intoxalock Do not remove the installed device prior to your suspension period as it will require you to start the suspension over again.