If you’re involved in a serious traffic violation in the state of Arizona, you may need to hold SR-22 insurance after the violation occurs or if authorities catch you driving without insurance. SR-22 forms let the state know you meet the minimum auto insurance coverage requirements to legally drive in the Grand Canyon State.1
Here’s what you need to know about how SR-22 insurance in Arizona works.
Cheapest companies for SR-22 insurance in Arizona
Unfortunately, when hit with an SR-22 requirement, you can expect your auto insurance premium to rise. Comparing quotes with a few different Arizona car insurance companies is a great way to see which company can offer you the right amount of coverage for the best deal.
This table can help you find a few of the best and most affordable auto insurance companies in Arizona.
What is SR-22 insurance in Arizona?
No one likes to get into trouble on the road, but car accidents happen and have consequences. An SR-22 form — which many people refer to as SR-22 insurance — is a certificate of financial responsibility, not an auto insurance policy itself.
If the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) views you as a high-risk driver after committing a major driving violation like a DUI, you may need to file an SR-22 to drive legally in the state.
SR-22 forms prove you meet the state’s minimum liability coverage requirements. This shows you have the insurance coverage you need in the event of an accident behind the wheel.
If you don’t have adequate auto insurance coverage, you may not be able to afford the expenses related to property damage or medical bills that can come after a car accident.
Difference between SR-22 and FR-44
Arizona drivers won’t ever need to worry about an FR-44 form. Some drivers may need to file an FR-44 form after committing certain driving violations, but that’s true only in Florida and Virginia. In other states like Arizona, an SR-22 form is the standard. Like an SR-22 form, an FR-44 form serves as a certificate of financial responsibility — with some small differentiations.
SR-22 forms guarantee the driver currently carries the state’s minimum liability insurance, while an FR-44 form comes with much stricter requirements (typically double the state minimum). Drivers required to carry an FR-44 have usually committed a severe driving offense.
When you need SR-22 insurance
The state will notify you if you need to file an SR-22 form. This could happen if you’re guilty of any of the following driving violations:
Driving under the influence (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI): Engaging in dangerous behavior, like driving while impaired by alcohol or drugs, can come with major consequences.
Unpaid child support: An SR-22 form can act as a penalty for failing to make child support payments.
Hardship license: If you’re issued a hardship license, you may also need to file an SR-22 form to continue meeting the appropriate legal requirements to drive. A hardship license is a restricted driver’s license the state issues to people who’ve had their regular license suspended. This license allows them to drive under limited circumstances, such as for work, school, or medical needs.
Frequent traffic violations: Accumulating several traffic infractions in a short period of time may lead to being classified as a high-risk driver and force you to file an SR-22 form.
At-fault accidents: Being responsible for an automobile accident while underinsured can also trigger the need for an SR-22 form.
Lack of insurance: If a police officer pulls you over and you fail to provide proof of insurance, an SR-22 proves to the DMV that you’ve obtained proper coverage.
How to get SR-22 insurance in Arizona
If you need to file an SR-22 form, the process is pretty simple and requires minimum effort. If you must secure SR-22 insurance in Arizona, follow these steps:
How long Arizona requires SR-22 insurance
Every state has different requirements regarding how long a driver must maintain SR-22 coverage. Arizona drivers facing an SR-22 requirement have to maintain the required amount of car insurance coverage for three years — unless they experience a judgment suspension. Some drivers may struggle to afford this coverage if they see their car insurance rates rise as a result of driving incidents that led to the SR-22 form filing.
How SR-22 insurance affects driving record and future rates in Arizona
If you have a clean driving record, you probably pay the lowest auto insurance rates. But people with a violation on their driving record that leads to an SR-22 requirement should expect their rates to be on the higher side. If Arizona views you as a high-risk driver, it’s likely your car insurance company does as well.
If you’re on the hunt for auto insurance savings, consider some of these tips:
Be a safe driver. Practicing safe driving habits not only helps protect you and other drivers on the road but leads to more affordable car insurance rates.3 In addition to potential financial trouble, reckless driving can lead to life-or-death consequences.
Ask for discounts. Most car insurance companies offer a handful of potential discounts, so don’t be afraid to ask an insurance agent about which ones you may qualify for.
Take a defensive driving course. See if your auto insurer offers a discount to customers who complete a defensive driving course. You may save money and improve your driving skills in one fell swoop.
Comparison shop for car insurance. It’s always a good idea to request quotes from a few different car insurance companies from time to time to ensure you’re getting the best deal possible.