The state of Alaska may require you to obtain SR-22 insurance if you previously lost your license or had your driving privileges suspended. SR-22 insurance isn’t actually a type of car insurance — it’s a document proving that you meet the minimum insurance requirements in your state.1
Here’s what else you need to know about SR-22 insurance in Alaska.
What is SR-22 insurance in Alaska?
SR-22 insurance is a certificate proving that you meet the minimum car insurance requirements in Alaska. It also states that if you fail to maintain these requirements, the insurance company will let the Alaska Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) know.2
Three different types of SR-22 filings are available:
Operator’s certificate: This certificate covers a driver operating any vehicle, regardless of whether that person owns the vehicle.
Owner’s certificate: This certificate covers the vehicle the driver owns.
Operator’s-owner’s certificate: This certificate covers any vehicles the driver owns or operates and is the most comprehensive type of SR-22 insurance.
You must obtain a copy of SR-22 insurance dated within the last 30 days before you can have your license reinstated. You may also need an SR-22 filing even if you don’t own a vehicle. In that case, you can ask your insurance company about obtaining a non-owner SR-22 policy.
Difference between SR-22 and FR-44
SR-22 and FR-44 insurance are both certificates proving that you meet the state’s minimum insurance requirements. But FR-44 insurance is required if you’re applying to reinstate your driver’s license after a DUI or DWI. Virginia and Florida are currently the only states using FR-44 insurance.
When you need SR-22 insurance
You may need an SR-22 certificate for several reasons:
You’re convicted of vehicular homicide, a DUI or DWI, driving with a suspended license, a hit and run, or other serious driving incidents.
You’re involved in a car accident while driving without an insurance policy.
You accumulate a certain number of demerit points within a short period of time.
You’re attempting to reinstate your driver’s license after it was suspended or revoked.
You’re applying for a hardship license or probationary permit.
How to get SR-22 insurance in Alaska
You can get SR-22 insurance in Alaska by following these steps:
How long Alaska requires SR-22 insurance
The length of time you’re required to maintain SR-22 insurance varies depending on the severity of the violation. For most driving incidents, you must maintain an SR-22 policy for three years following the ending date of your license revocation.
If you’ve been convicted of a DUI, you must maintain SR-22 insurance for five years after the first offense, 10 years for the second offense, and 20 years for the third offense. If you have a fourth DUI conviction, a refusal conviction, or an unsatisfied judgment, you must maintain SR-22 insurance for the rest of your life.
Obtaining SR-22 insurance can be challenging. Only certain insurance companies offer this coverage, so your options are more limited. And if you were convicted of a serious offense, your insurance coverage may be more expensive.
How SR-22 insurance affects driving record and future rates in Alaska
SR-22 insurance doesn’t affect your insurance premiums directly, but the underlying driving violation does since it makes you a higher-risk driver. For example, let’s say you have to file an SR-22 form to reinstate your license following a DUI conviction. The DUI conviction is what causes your insurance premiums to increase.
Here are five steps you can take to lower your car insurance rates, even with an SR-22 requirement:
Choose a higher deductible. Your deductible is an out-of-pocket expense you’ll pay when filing an insurance claim. A higher deductible will result in lower insurance premiums, so this can be a good way to cut down on your insurance costs. Just make sure you can afford to pay the deductible if you’re involved in an accident.
Reduce coverage on older cars. If you have an older vehicle that’s paid off, you may not need to purchase full-coverage insurance. Choosing liability-only insurance can help you save on your insurance costs while you improve your driving record.
Bundle your auto and home insurance. Most insurance companies offer a discount for buying multiple policies. For example, you could receive a discount for bundling your auto and homeowners insurance.
Take advantage of discounts. Your insurer likely offers other discounts you can take advantage of to lower the cost of auto insurance. For example, you may receive a discount for having certain safety features in your vehicle or taking a defensive driving course.
Shop around. Shopping around and comparing quotes from multiple insurers will help you find the best car insurance rates. This may be harder with SR-22 insurance since not all companies offer this coverage. Look for at least three insurers that offer it, and compare quotes from each company.
Alaska SR-22 insurance FAQs
If your driver’s license was revoked or suspended, you may have to get an SR-22 certificate to get it reinstated. Here’s some additional information about how SR-22 insurance works.
How do you know if you need an SR-22 or FR-44?
You may need SR-22 insurance if your license was revoked following a driving incident. For example, a DUI, driving with a suspended license, or being involved in a hit and run can all warrant filing an SR-22 certificate. You can contact your state’s DMV to determine whether or not you need SR-22 or FR-44 insurance.
Are there any fees with SR-22 or FR-44 insurance?
Yes. You have to pay a one-time fee to file SR-22 or FR-44 insurance with the state. The average cost to file is around $25, but each insurance company can set its own filing requirements. It’s a good idea to check with your insurance company to find out how much it charges.
How much do car insurance rates increase after filing an SR-22?
How much your insurance rates increase after filing an SR-22 depends on the severity of the driving incident. For instance, DUIs are generally considered the most serious driving offense and will cause your rates to increase dramatically. Your rate increase will also vary depending on the state you live in.
How long do you have to hold an SR-22 in Alaska?
Most Alaska drivers have to hold SR-22 insurance for three years. If you were convicted of a DUI, you’ll have to hold SR-22 insurance anywhere from five years to life, depending on how many convictions you’ve had.
How do you get rid of an SR-22 in Alaska?
You can get rid of SR-22 insurance in Alaska by fulfilling the requirements. Once you’ve met the time requirements, you can check with the Alaska DMV to confirm you’re no longer required to carry SR-22 insurance.
What happens to your SR-22 in Alaska if you move?
The SR-22 requirements follow you even if you move to another state. You should notify the Alaska Division of Motor Vehicles of your new address and maintain continuous coverage even after moving.