Cheap SR-22 Insurance in Montana from $82
The average cost of SR-22 insurance for Montana drivers is $82 per month for liability and $176 for full coverage.
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An SR-22 is a certificate of financial responsibility. Some states, including Montana, require an SR-22 to reinstate the driving privileges of high-risk drivers after certain violations, like driving under the influence (DUI), driving without insurance, or driving with a suspended license.
It’s not an insurance policy but rather a form an insurance company files with the state to confirm you have the minimum coverage required by law.
Here’s what you need to know about SR-22 insurance in Montana.
Cheapest companies for SR-22 insurance in Montana
When looking for affordable SR-22 insurance in Big Sky Country, it’s a good idea to compare rates from different insurers. To help you get started, the table below shows some companies offering competitive premiums for SR-22 coverage in Montana.
What is SR-22 insurance in Montana?
An SR-22 is a certificate from your insurance company proving you have coverage that meets your state’s minimum requirements. Your insurance company also promises to inform the state if your insurance coverage lapses for any reason.
Montana may require an SR-22 after a major driving violation, like a DUI, driving without insurance, an at-fault accident, or repeated traffic violations. You’ll need an SR-22 form to reinstate your driving privileges.1
An SR-22 isn’t a special type of car insurance policy. It’s just a form your insurance company issues to the state. But not all insurance companies issue SR-22s.
Difference between SR-22 and FR-44
In Florida and Virginia, another form called an FR-44 serves a similar purpose. Those states require an FR-44 after a DUI conviction or other serious traffic violations.
The difference between an SR-22 and an FR-44 is the level of coverage required. If your state requires an SR-22, you only need to carry the state-mandated minimum liability coverage. An FR-44 requires liability insurance beyond the minimum limits.
Montana doesn’t use FR-44 forms, so you don’t need to worry about them unless you move to Virginia or Florida.
When you need SR-22 insurance
You may need an SR-22 if you’re convicted of certain traffic violations in Montana that signal you’re a high-risk driver. Here are a few reasons Montana might require you to get an SR-22:
Driving under the influence: If you’re convicted of driving under the influence in Montana, the state will likely require you to carry an SR-22 to reinstate your driver’s license.
Driving without insurance: Being caught driving without the state’s minimum insurance coverage usually leads to an SR-22 requirement if it’s your second offense.
Causing a car accident: A minor fender bender typically won’t lead to an SR-22 requirement, but reckless driving or excessive speeding that results in serious property damage, injury, or death might.
Getting several traffic violations on your record within a short period: Montana may suspend your driver’s license if you accumulate too many traffic violations, and you’ll require an SR-22 to reinstate it.
How to get SR-22 insurance in Montana
Getting an SR-22 form is fairly straightforward, especially if your current insurer offers them. Here’s the process for getting SR-22 insurance in Montana:2
How long Montana requires SR-22 insurance
Montana typically requires drivers to maintain their SR-22 for three years. This period allows the state to monitor high-risk drivers and ensure they maintain the required insurance coverage.
If your coverage lapses during this time, the insurance company will notify the MVD, and the state will suspend your license immediately. To get your license back, you’ll need to reinstate your coverage, at which point the state may restart the clock on your SR-22 requirement.
You may face a few barriers when looking for SR-22 insurance in Montana. Many car insurance companies don’t offer SR-22 filings, so you may need to shop around to find one that does. Plus, the higher premiums associated with high-risk drivers can make the coverage you need difficult to afford.
How SR-22 insurance affects driving record and future rates in Montana
Since only high-risk drivers need an SR-22, insurance companies usually charge them higher rates. These higher rates can remain in effect throughout the three-year requirement and even for some time after.
Here are some tips for improving your driving record and working toward lower insurance rates:3
Montana SR-22 insurance FAQs
Montana’s SR-22 requirements can be confusing, especially for drivers unfamiliar with these forms. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about SR-22s to help you understand the purpose, cost, and requirements.
How do you know if you need an SR-22 or an FR-44?
The Montana MVD will notify you if you need an SR-22 to reinstate your driving privileges after a DUI or other violation. Montana law doesn’t require an FR-44. This form is only used in Florida and Virginia for drivers who need higher coverage limits after a severe offense.
Are there any fees with SR-22 insurance?
Yes, your insurance company may charge a filing fee to issue an SR-22 form. That fee varies by insurance company but can be as high as $200. This fee is separate from your regular insurance premium, which might also increase due to the higher-risk status associated with the violation leading to the SR-22 requirement.
How much do car insurance rates increase after filing an SR-22?
Expect to pay more money for car insurance if you need an SR-22. For example, Montana drivers with a clean record pay an average of $68 per month, while drivers with a DUI pay an average of $102 per month, according to Insurify data. The exact increase depends on several factors, including the violation that led to the SR-22, your driving history, your ZIP code, and the insurance company.
How long do you have to hold an SR-22 in Montana?
Montana generally requires drivers to maintain an SR-22 for three years, but the duration can vary depending on the nature and severity of the offense. Any lapse in your coverage can extend the SR-22 period or lead to additional penalties.
How do you get rid of an SR-22 in Montana?
Once you’ve maintained the state’s requirements for three years, you can contact your insurance agency and ask it to send an SR-26 to the Montana MVD. This form removes your SR-22. Before getting rid of your SR-22, confirm with the state that you no longer need it.
What happens to your SR-22 in Montana if you move?
If you move out of Montana, you must maintain your SR-22 until the state-mandated period is complete. Even if you move to another state, your insurer must continue filing the SR-22 certificate with Montana to avoid penalties.
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