SR-22 Insurance

Get SR-22 Insurance in Illinois 

If you’re a driver in Illinois, you may be familiar with the state’s auto insurance laws. What you may not be familiar with is SR-22 insurance. If you’ve been mandated to get an SR-22 by a court order or simply wondering about its significance, this guide may help you understand more about the filing process. Here, we’ll walk through what SR-22 insurance is, how to get SR-22 insurance in Illinois, and how Illinois Vehicle Insurance Agency, LLC (Illinois Vehicle) may be able to help you.   

What is SR-22 insurance? 

Though an SR-22 is sometimes referred to as SR-22 car insurance, it’s actually not insurance at all. An SR-22, also known as a certificate of financial responsibility, is a form that proves that you have the minimum auto coverage that’s required by your state. Drivers who’ve incurred moving violations or other legal offenses may be required to get this document. 
 

Who needs an SR-22 in Illinois? 

Drivers who need an SR-22 are typically ordered by a court to get one. Some reasons and situations where you may need to obtain this document include: 

• DUI or DWI convictions – If you've been caught driving under the influence, the state may require you to file for an SR-22 before trying to reinstate your license. 
• Driving without insurance – If you were caught without having Illinois minimum auto insurance requirements, you may be ordered to get an SR-22. 
• Multiple traffic offenses – Receiving a couple of traffic offenses in a short period of time may result in you needing to file for an SR-22.  
• License suspension or revocation – If your driving privileges were revoked or suspended, you may need an SR-22 to reinstate them. 

SR-22 requirements in Chicago and Illinois 

If you’ve been ordered to file for an SR-22, here are some state requirements that you may have to follow:   

• To file for an SR-22, you typically need to contact an insurance provider. They will send the document to the Illinois Secretary of State in Springfield on your behalf.   
• You must maintain SR-22 coverage for a minimum of three years. 
• You must keep your insurance policy updated. If you cancel your auto insurance policy before your SR-22 duration is completed, you may have your license suspended.   

How to get an SR-22 in Chicago 

If you need an SR-22, Illinois Vehicle can help you file. Here are some tips that may benefit you: 

• Contact an agent – Our agents can help you find a provider that can assist you with your SR-22 filing. 
• Purchase a policy – Since an SR-22 proves you have the state’s minimum insurance requirements, you’ll need to buy an auto insurance policy with Illinois’ mandatory coverage before filing.  
• Maintain continuous coverage – Once you purchase a policy, maintaining your coverage and making your auto insurance payments on time may help you avoid further issues.   

Cost of SR-22 insurance in Chicago 

Filing an SR-22 may come with certain costs. As of March 2025, these costs may include: 

• Filing fees – Your insurer may charge you between $15 to $50 for filing your SR-22. 
• Higher insurance premiums – You may experience an insurance rate increase because insurers may consider you as higher risk. 

If you’re nervous about your auto insurance rates going up, Illinois Vehicle may be able to help you save. We can help you find discounts you may be eligible for as well as compare rates from multiple carriers.   

How Illinois Vehicle can help 

Here are some reasons you may want to choose us to help you file your SR-22:  

• Fast SR-22 filings – We can help you locate an insurer so that you can file your SR-22 as soon as you need to.  
• Expert knowledge of Illinois requirements – Our agents are highly knowledgeable about Illinois state laws and can help you stay compliant. 
• Competitive rates – We work with reputable carriers which may help you find more affordable coverage options. 

FAQs 

Can I get an SR-22 if I don’t own a car? 

Yes, you can purchase non-owner SR-22 insurance if you drive but don’t own a vehicle.  

How long does an SR-22 stay on my record? 

The SR-22 requirement typically lasts three years, but your driving offense may stay on your record for longer.  

Does SR-22 replace auto insurance? 

No, an SR-22 is just a certificate that proves you have your state’s minimum auto insurance requirements.  

Get a quote today 

Need an SR-22? Illinois Vehicle can help you file. Contact us today at 1-630-581-4805 or visit our website if you need a free personalized insurance quote.  

Disclaimer:   

This material is for general informational purposes only. The products, services, and discounts referenced herein are not available in all states or from all companies. All statements are subject to the terms, exclusions, and conditions of the applicable policy. In all cases, the actual language of the policy contract prevails. Coverage is subject to individual policyholders meeting the insurer's underwriting qualifications and state availability. Other terms, conditions, and exclusions may apply.