Cheap SR-22 Insurance in Colorado From $81

If you have a serious traffic violation on your record, the state of Colorado may suspend your driving privileges. An SR-22 form allows you to legally get back on the road, but you’ll likely pay higher insurance premiums stemming from the incident that required you to seek an SR-22.

Here’s what to know about cheap car insurance in Colorado when you have an SR-22 insurance requirement.

Cheapest companies for SR-22 insurance in Colorado

Having an SR-22 form on file usually results in more expensive rates than standard auto insurance. But it’s still possible to find affordable coverage. Here are some of the cheapest companies for SR-22 insurance in Colorado.

What is SR-22 insurance in Colorado?

Though sometimes referred to as SR-22 insurance, an SR-22 isn’t an insurance policy. It’s a form your car insurance company files on your behalf to show you have coverage that meets the state minimum requirements. In Colorado, you may need this certificate of financial responsibility if you’re convicted of a serious driving violation.

If you drop your insurance coverage while the SR-22 is on file, your insurer must notify the Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles.2 Dropping your coverage while your SR-22 requirement is active will typically lead to a suspended driver’s license. If this happens, you’ll need to buy a new policy and file a new SR-22 form to regain your driving privileges.

Difference between SR-22 and FR-44

SR-22s and FR-44s are two documents that act as proof of insurance for people convicted of certain driving offenses. Both forms state the driver will maintain their insurance coverage during a specified period, such as three years. The driver’s insurance company usually files the form with the state’s department of motor vehicles (DMV).

Some states require an SR-22 form for drivers convicted of a serious traffic offense, such as driving under the influence (DUI) or driving without a license. States may also require an SR-22 if a driver has multiple accidents on their record.

The FR-44 form is generally reserved only for DUIs and driving with a suspended license. The FR-44 also typically requires higher liability limits than the SR-22. Only Florida and Virginia use the FR-44 form. Other states use the SR-22.

When you need SR-22 insurance

The Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles may require you to file an SR-22 form if it considers you a high-risk driver. This may happen if you’re:

• Caught driving without a valid car insurance policy3

• Convicted of driving under the influence (DUI) or driving while ability impaired (DWAI)

• Convicted of a moving violation, such as reckless driving, and the court determines you need to file the form

How to get SR-22 insurance in Colorado

Drivers who need SR-22 insurance in the state of Colorado typically learn about the requirement via court order. In addition to any court hearing you attend, you may receive a written notice in the mail.

Here are the steps you can take to get SR-22 coverage in Colorado:

How long Colorado requires SR-22 insurance

Your SR-22 form may need to stay on file for up to three years, starting with the date you reinstate your driving privileges. So, if you have a 90-day license suspension following a DUI, you’ll keep your SR-22 filed for three years from the first day of your license reinstatement.

If your coverage lapses while the requirement is in effect, your insurance company must inform the state, and you’ll face driver’s license suspension. Before driving again, you’ll need to get a new SR-22 form on file.4

In some cases, Colorado allows you to discontinue your insurance policy and remove the SR-22 if the state cancels your driver’s license.

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

Your SR-22 filing can affect your driving record as long as it’s in force, which is up to three years in Colorado. It affects your insurance policy’s cost since you qualify as a high-risk driver.

But you have ways to lower your insurance rates in Colorado:

• Take a defensive driving course. Some insurance companies discount your policy after completing this type of class. Ask the company about this option before signing up.

• Bundle your insurance policies. When possible, consider bundling your auto policy with another insurance policy, such as home insurance or boat insurance. Many insurance companies offer a discount when you purchase multiple policies with them.

• Improve your credit. Colorado allows insurers to consider information in your credit history when setting your insurance rates. Generally, building healthy credit can help improve the rates you receive. You can boost your credit history by paying all your bills on time and reducing your debt-to-income ratio.

• Buy a safer vehicle. Insurance companies consider factors like your vehicle’s safety features when setting monthly rates. If you need to buy a new car, consider choosing one of the cheapest cars to insure to save on insurance.