In Alabama, usually an insurer files an SR-22 certificate on a driver’s behalf as a guarantee that the driver is carrying the mandated minimum insurance.

Written by Bonnie Stinson

Reviewed by Kathleen Flear

Updated on Mar 23, 2023

Table of Contents

What is it?
Who needs it?
How to get it
Cost
Insurance implications
Cheap insurance

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SR-22 insurance in Alabama proves that you carry the state minimum required car insurance. It’s not actually an insurance policy—it’s a separate certificate that the insurance company files to verify your coverage.

If you have committed a high-risk traffic offense (like a DUI), you may be required to file an SR-22. Usually, the insurance company needs to file the form on your behalf.

Even if your license was suspended or revoked in the past, shopping for

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Keep reading to understand how an SR-22 works and how it could affect your

Alabama car insurance cost

What is an SR-22 in Alabama?

In Alabama, an

SR-22

is a form that high-risk drivers need to get back on the road.

Your insurance company must file the SR-22 certificate with the Alabama DMV once it has agreed to insure you. The form proves that you have state minimum liability coverage. Note that your insurance company must file the SR-22 on your behalf—you cannot file an SR-22 yourself.

In Alabama, the minimum

liability coverage

is:

$25,000 for bodily injury per person in an accident

$50,000 for bodily injury per accident

$25,000 for property damage coverage

For a minimum period of 36 months, you must maintain an SR-22 in Alabama. The period could be up to five years if you had a lapse in coverage or if you were convicted of a very serious offense, such as a fatal at-fault accident.

You should renew it at least 15 days before the expiration date, otherwise the state will be notified and you could lose coverage or even lose your license.

Key Takeaway An SR-22 is a form that proves you have minimum insurance, and you may need it if your license was suspended or revoked due to a high-risk violation like a DUI.

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Who needs it?

SR-22 insurance in Alabama is for high-risk or non-standard drivers. Examples of

high-risk driving

include a DUI, a history of reckless driving or numerous at-fault accidents, or driving without car insurance.

If your license was revoked or suspended because of risky behavior, you will need an SR-22 form to get back on the road and regain your license.

MORE:

Is the car insurance company required to notify me if I need an SR-22?

How to get it

First, you might need to pay a reinstatement fee to get your license back. Second, you will need to find an insurance company that will offer you insurance and is willing to file an SR-22 for you.

Keep in mind that some companies are hesitant—or will outright refuse—to insure high-risk drivers.

In Alabama, the insurance company must fill out and file the form on your behalf. It must be the official SR-22 certificate, too. Any other proof of insurance will not suffice.

MORE:

Tips to get a clean driving record

How much is SR-22 insurance in Alabama?

The average fee to file an SR-22 in Alabama is between $25 and $50.

Keep in mind that the actual cost of your new insurance plan will probably be higher than it was before. This is because after committing a serious moving violation, you will be seen as a high-risk driver by insurance companies.

Non-owner insurance

could be a good way to save money if you don’t own a vehicle but still need coverage.

How an SR-22 impacts your insurance in Alabama

If you need an SR-22, you can expect to pay more for insurance than a driver who has a clean record. You may also be more limited in your choice of insurance companies, as some insurers won’t insure SR-22 drivers.

It sounds stressful, but you still have some options. High-risk drivers can find savings by shopping around to find the best rates.

Key Takeaway If you need an SR-22, you might be facing higher than average insurance rates—but shopping around with Jerry can help you find savings.

How to find cheap car insurance

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