Cheap SR-22 Insurance in Washington, D.C. (2023)

An SR-22 form is a certificate of financial responsibility that shows you’ve met the minimum liability coverage requirements. Certain high-risk drivers need to obtain this certificate following a serious driving violation, like a driving under the influence (DUI) conviction or getting into an accident without car insurance coverage.^[1]

Requirements vary by location, but some drivers in Washington, D.C., need to file an SR-22 form. Here’s what you need to know about finding SR-22 coverage in Washington, D.C.

What is SR-22 insurance in Washington, D.C., and when do you need it?

Also referred to as high-risk insurance or a certificate of financial responsibility, SR-22 insurance is technically not a type of insurance. An SR-22 form filed by your insurance company shows the District of Columbia Department of Motor Vehicles that you have the mandated liability coverage.

Some high-risk drivers in Washington, D.C., need to file an SR-22 certificate when instructed by the DMV or through the court after driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, causing an accident while uninsured, demonstrating reckless driving behavior, or getting multiple speeding tickets or violations in a short period of time.

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How can you get an SR-22 in Washington, D.C.?

Once you get a court order or notification from the DMV saying that you need an SR-22 certificate, you need to contact your insurance company to see if it offers SR-22 insurance.^[3] Not all insurance companies provide SR-22s. If your current company doesn’t, you need to shop for another insurer.

Your insurer will need to file your SR-22 form with the D.C. DMV. Once you file an SR-22, make sure you maintain and renew your coverage ahead of schedule to avoid any lapse in coverage.

How long is SR-22 insurance required in Washington, D.C.?

Drivers in Washington, D.C., must carry SR-22 insurance for a minimum of three years. Depending on the type of infraction, the period could last longer. You need to maintain coverage during the entire period. If you have a lapse in coverage, you have to restart the three-year process.^[4]

“If at any time you cancel or lose that coverage, the insurance company is obligated to notify the D.C. DMV so that they can revoke your license or registration,” says Thomas Simeone, a personal injury attorney in D.C. To ensure you meet the SR-22 requirements, you should renew your insurance coverage on time and make sure your insurance company files the SR-22 certificate.

How much is SR-22 insurance in Washington, D.C.?

When your insurer files an SR-22 form for you in Washington, D.C., you can expect to pay a fee to account for the extra time and paperwork. In general, this fee costs around $25.

You’ll face more expensive premiums when you file an SR-22 because your serious driving violation represents a higher risk for your car insurance company. 

“If you have more than one serious driving offense, your premium may increase dramatically,” says Simeone.

Cheapest companies for SR-22 insurance in Washington, D.C.

The average cost of SR-22 insurance in Washington, D.C., is $376 per month, according to Insurify data. Your actual premium will vary based on factors like your driving history, age, credit score, location, and more.^[5]

Companies offering SR-22 coverage in D.C. include CSAA, GEICO, Liberty Mutual, and Progressive.

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How SR-22 insurance affects driving record and future rates in Washington, D.C.

At $376 per month, drivers in Washington, D.C., with an SR-22 pay higher rates for insurance compared to drivers in some U.S. states. For example, the average cost for SR-22 insurance in West Virginia is $153 per month, according to Insurify data. The only state with a higher rate is Nevada, at $385 per month, based on Insurify data.

Drivers with SR-22 filings tend to pay higher premiums because of their high-risk driving history involving a DUI, uninsured driving, or multiple violations. To account for the potential for risky behavior on the road, car insurance companies charge high-risk drivers more expensive premiums.

To pay the lowest rates for SR-22 insurance in Washington, D.C., follow these guidelines:

Practice safe driving habits

Wear your seat belt. Avoid speeding. Stop your vehicle with plenty of room. Stay focused on the road. Don’t use your phone while behind the wheel.

Don’t drive under the influence of any substances

Avoid getting behind the wheel if you’ve ingested any substances that can affect your cognition. That means alcohol, marijuana, painkillers, or any other mind-altering substance.

Maintain proper insurance coverage

Make sure you meet the minimum requirements for car insurance and avoid a lapse in coverage. In the District of Columbia, drivers must have a minimum in property damage liability, bodily injury liability, uninsured motorist bodily injury, and uninsured motorist property damage coverage.^[6]

Shop around

Not all insurers offer SR-22 insurance policies. To find the best rates, shop around and evaluate all insurance companies that offer SR-22 insurance in Washington, D.C. Look at coverage types, fees, customer reviews, and cost.

Washington, D.C., SR-22 insurance FAQs