Cheap SR-22 and FR-44 Insurance in Virginia (2023)

Accidents happen, and, unfortunately, they can come with consequences. If you live in Virginia and are considered a high-risk driver, you may be required to secure an SR-22 or FR-44 form. SR-22 and FR-44 forms are certificates of financial responsibility that the Commonwealth of Virginia requires high-risk drivers to file with the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles.

Here’s what you need to know about FR-44 and SR-22 insurance in Virginia.

What are SR-22 and FR-44 insurance in Virginia, and when do you need them?

Many drivers confuse SR-22 and FR-44 forms with traditional car insurance. But they aren’t actually car insurance.

“They are proof that you have the required levels of auto insurance liability coverage required by the state,” says Mark Friedlander, director of corporate communications at the Insurance Information Institute.

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SR-22 requirements in Virginia

Friedlander says an SR-22 is required for drivers who have the following violations:

• Driving without car insurance

• Experiencing an uninsured motor vehicle suspension

• Having unsatisfied judgments

• Falsifying insurance certification

• Getting a driver’s license suspension after being convicted of various offenses — including voluntary manslaughter while operating a motor vehicle and leaving the scene of an accident

The minimum insurance liability requirements for SR-22 drivers in Virginia are:

• $25,000 liability per person

• $50,000 liability per accident

• $20,000 in property damage

FR-44 requirements in Virginia

An FR-44 is required for drivers who have the following violations:

• Driving while under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or intoxicants

• Maiming while under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or intoxicants

• Driving while your driver’s license has been forfeited for a conviction or a finding of “not innocent” in the case of a juvenile

• Violation of any federal law or law of any other valid local or state ordinance similar to those listed above. This also applies to Virginia drivers if the incident occurs out of state.

The minimum liability requirements for FR-44 drivers are double those of an SR-22 driver because of the more serious nature of the infractions:

• $50,000 liability per person

• $100,000 liability per accident

• $40,000 in property damage

How can you get an SR-22 in Virginia?

If you’re worried you need to obtain SR-22 or FR-44 insurance in Virginia, the good news is it’s clear if this is a requirement for you. 

“Typically, a court will order you to obtain an SR-22 in order to continue to be allowed to drive in Virginia,” Friedlander says. “The form must be filed with the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles by your insurer.” This can happen if you experience one of the aforementioned judgments.

According to Friedlander, you’ll also need to pay some fees associated with obtaining an SR-22. Generally, this includes a $25 administrative fee, plus a $175 reinstatement fee if your driving privileges have been revoked, and a $5 fee for each additional suspension order. You must also complete a driver improvement clinic required by the Virginia DMV.

In addition, getting SR-22 or FR-44 insurance also designates you as a high-risk driver. Friedlander warns this could make it challenging to get affordable auto insurance. 

“Many auto insurers will not underwrite drivers who have been charged with a DUI,” Friedlander notes. “As a result, you may need to seek out insurers that specialize in high-risk drivers, and (you) will pay a very high premium.”

How long are an SR-22 and FR-44 required in Virginia?

The required length of an SR-22 or FR-44 depends on which type of insurance is required. For SR-22 insurance, the requirement lasts for three years and is followed by paying a reinstatement fee, if applicable. FR-44 insurance is also required for three years, but incurring additional DUI charges can add to this timeline. The FR-44 will generally be removed after this period is over, provided you’ve maintained a good driving record.

How much is SR-22 and FR-44 insurance in Virginia?

While the cost can vary depending on the state you live in and the insurance company you choose, you could face a 50% premium increase if you have an SR-22 and a premium increase of more than 100% above the state-average premium with an FR-44. 

You’ll want to shop around for the best rates if you have either of these certificates. You can also see if you qualify for any types of discounts on your auto insurance policy to help bring costs down.

Cheapest companies for SR-22 insurance in Virginia

If you’re required to take on an SR-22, you’ll want to shop around to see which insurer can offer you the best possible rate.

The following table outlines the average monthly costs with different auto insurance companies for liability-only insurance for drivers with SR-22 requirements.

Cheapest insurance companies in Virginia with SR-22 by city

To get a better idea of what you might pay for car insurance after being ordered to take on an SR-22, check out the following table which outlines the average cost of liability-only policies for drivers with SR-22s in different Virginia cities from several auto insurers.

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How SR-22 insurance affects driving record and future rates in Virginia

Your car insurance rate will most likely increase significantly during the period when you have to file an SR-22. After you no longer have an SR-22, your rates should return to normal.

To help offset this increase in cost, here are some things you can do to potentially lower your auto insurance premiums:

• Increase your deductible. A deductible is the amount of money you pay out of pocket before your insurance company pays for any damages or injuries. By increasing your deductible, you can lower your monthly premium since you’re agreeing to take on more risk.

• Get multiple quotes. Always compare quotes from different insurance companies before renewing your policy or signing up for a new one. This way, you can find the best deal on your auto insurance without compromising coverage. You can use an insurance comparison tool to make shopping around for the best deal easier. Generally, you want to get at least three quotes before making a decision.

• Bundle your policies. If you need multiple insurance policies, like home and auto policies, consider bundling them with one insurer. Most insurance companies offer bundling discounts that can help you save on both policies.

• Maintain good credit. In many states, including Virginia, insurance companies can use credit scores to determine premiums. Maintaining a good credit score can help you get lower rates on your auto insurance.

• Ask for discounts. Many auto insurers offer discounts for various reasons, such as being a safe driver, having anti-theft devices installed in your car, or being a student with good grades.

Virginia SR-22 insurance FAQs