Cheap SR-22 Insurance in Illinois (2023)

An SR-22 form proves you have the minimum liability coverage required by your state. You may need an SR-22 if you commit a serious traffic violation, such as a DUI or driving with a suspended license. Smaller, isolated violations, like speeding tickets or minor accidents, typically won’t result in you needing to carry an SR-22.

Here’s what you need to know about SR-22 insurance in Illinois.

What’s SR-22 insurance in Illinois, and when do you need it?

An SR-22, also known in Illinois as financial responsibility insurance, is a certificate that indicates you carry the required state-minimum amount of car insurance. Drivers with serious or multiple infractions on their driving record may be required to carry an SR-22.^[2]

“It is important to note that SR-22 insurance is not a type of insurance coverage in and of itself but rather a document certifying that you have the required minimum liability coverage,” says Brad Cummins, founder of Insurance Geek. “Therefore, the cost of SR-22 insurance will depend on the cost of your underlying insurance policy and any additional fees that your insurance company may charge for filing the SR-22 form.”

You’ll know if you need an SR-22 form in Illinois because you’ll receive a court order from the Illinois Driver Services Department. States typically reserve these forms for drivers who commit serious offenses, such as DUIs and driving without car insurance. But if you receive enough speeding tickets, the state may issue you an SR-22 form as well.^[3]

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How to get an SR-22 in Illinois

If a court mandates that you get an SR-22 certificate, you’ll need to go through your insurance company to activate it. SR-22 insurance is typically only the minimum liability coverage the state requires.^[4] This coverage pays for costs related to property damage, injury, or death for the other driver if you’re at fault.^[5]

Not every insurance company offers SR-22 coverage, however, so you may need to find a new insurer that does. Once you’ve found an insurer that will provide you with an SR-22 certificate, your insurer must submit it to the Office of the Illinois Secretary of State.^[2]

In Illinois, SR-22 certificates are issued via the following forms:

• Operator’s certificate: This covers the driver in any vehicle they don’t own.

• Owner’s certificate: This covers the driver in the vehicles they own.

• Operators-owners certificate: This provides coverage in all vehicles regardless of ownership.

This process can take up to 30 days, so be sure you plan ahead. If you cancel your coverage or let it lapse, your insurance company will notify the state, which will suspend your license.^[2]

How long is an SR-22 required in Illinois?

Illinois drivers must maintain SR-22 for three years, according to the Office of the Illinois Secretary of State. It’s important that you renew your SR-22 45 days or more in advance and not let your coverage lapse. If you let it lapse, the state won’t remedy your suspension until you get the necessary coverage, and the three-year time frame may reset.^[2] 

How much is an SR-22 in Illinois?

SR-22 insurance in Illinois may cost more than traditional car insurance coverage. If you have an SR-22, insurers consider you high risk and will likely charge you higher premiums than drivers with clean records. On top of that, your insurer may charge you a filing fee.

Cheapest companies for SR-22 insurance in Illinois

It can be challenging to find affordable car insurance with an SR-22, but if you take the time to compare quotes, you may find insurers that fit your budget. The table below highlights the cheapest companies for SR-22 insurance in Illinois, with National General offering the most affordable rate, at $77 per month for liability coverage.

How an SR-22 affects driving record and future rates in Illinois

If you need an SR-22 certificate, you’re likely going to face higher car insurance costs for a while. Even once you no longer need an SR-22, insurers will still consider your driving record when setting your rates.

Fortunately, you can still find ways to save on car insurance, including:

• Practice safe driving habits. Safe driving is one of the best ways to keep your car insurance rates low and avoid future SR-22 requirements. Get the proper insurance coverage, don’t drive under the influence of any substances, and practice defensive driving.

• Take advantage of car insurance discounts. Insurers offer a variety of car insurance discounts, including bundling, loyalty, and paperless discounts. Ask your insurer or agent which discounts you qualify for.

• Compare car insurance quotes. SR-22 insurance may cost you more, but rates vary by insurer. Research and compare three to five insurance companies to find the best deal for your situation.

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