Cheap SR-22 Insurance in Washington (2023)

If you’ve committed a serious driving violation in Washington, you may have to file an SR-22 form for insurance. An SR-22 confirms that you have the minimum liability insurance to drive legally in the Evergreen State. Here’s what you need to know about SR-22s in Washington.

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

An SR-22 is not a car insurance policy. It’s a form that car insurance companies send to the Washington State Department of Licensing (DOL) to verify financial responsibility and that the driver meets the state’s minimum insurance requirements.^[1] Generally, drivers who need SR-22 forms for insurance have serious driving violations on their records, which corresponds to higher rates.^[2] 

The minimum liability coverage requirements in Washington include:^[3]

• $25,000 per person for bodily injury liability

• $50,000 per accident for bodily injury liability

• $10,000 per accident for property damage liability

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How can you get SR-22 insurance in Washington?

You typically need an SR-22 form in Washington if you’re convicted of a DUI, reckless driving, driving with a suspended license, or driving without insurance. To receive one, contact your insurance company to request the form.

Your insurer will then provide you with an SR-22 form or file it with the Washington State DOL on your behalf. If your current insurance company doesn’t offer SR-22 forms, you might need to shop around and find a different insurer.

“Washington requires insurance companies to digitally file your SR-22 with the state if you require one, so it’s actually fairly simple, as long as you can find a company that will offer you SR-22 coverage. Most large insurance companies do this,” explains Ben Michael, founder and managing partner of Michael & Associates.

Alternatives to filing an SR-22 form with the state include finding coverage through the Washington Automobile Assigned Risk Plan, depositing $60,000 to the State Treasury, or getting a surety bond through a licensed company.^[1]

Keep Reading: What Does DUI Mean?

How long is an SR-22 required in Washington?

Fortunately, Washington doesn’t require you to have an SR-22 form indefinitely. In most cases, you only need the form on file with the state for three years.^[1] But depending on your situation and violation, you may need an SR-22 form for longer. It’s in your best interest to confirm with the courts just how long you need an SR-22 form to prevent lapses in paperwork.

How much is SR-22 insurance in Washington?

If you need to file an SR-22 form in Washington, your car insurance company may charge a filing fee. Progressive states that this fee is approximately $25, but it can vary depending on the company. Generally speaking, having an SR-22 on your car insurance in Washington will cost more than if you had a clean record.

People who need SR-22 forms usually have serious convictions or coverage lapses on their records and, thus, are high-risk drivers. The higher the risk someone poses to a car insurance company, the higher their rates. In Washington, the average monthly cost for car insurance for people who need an SR-22 form is between $205 and $290, according to Insurify data.

Since rates vary by insurance company, you should do your research and shop around to find the best deal.

Cheapest companies for SR-22 insurance in Washington

Even though insurance may be more expensive with an SR-22 form in Washington, it’s still possible to lower your premiums. Search for companies that specialize in car insurance for high-risk drivers and have discounts you qualify for.

The table below shows the insurance companies that offer the cheapest rates on SR-22 insurance in Washington.

Cheapest insurance companies in Washington with SR-22 by city

Average monthly quotes can start at $168 per month but increase to $356 per month, depending on your location and the insurance company.

The table below shows the average monthly quotes of car insurance for drivers with SR-22s in Washington in three popular cities.

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

If you need to file an SR-22 form, you’re likely a high-risk driver in Washington, which can increase your future premiums. However, you can lower your rate and improve your driving record while under SR-22 insurance. Here’s how you can potentially lower your future premiums:

• Don’t cancel your SR-22 form early. In Washington, you typically need to keep an SR-22 on file for three years. If you cancel your car insurance before this period is over, you’ll have to restart the process. Therefore, hold on to your SR-22 insurance until you verify you no longer need it.

• Shop around. Not all insurance companies that offer SR-22s provide the same rates. Do your research and compare your options. You might have to switch insurers to lock in the best deal.

• Drive responsibly. Do your best to drive carefully and avoid future convictions. More driving offenses and convictions can lead to a license suspension and more expensive rates, and it can increase the time you need an SR-22 form filed with the Washington State DOL.

Washington SR-22 insurance FAQs