You may need an SR-22 if you drive without insurance, have a DUI, or have multiple violations in a short time frame. An SR-22 is a form of financial responsibility that your insurance company submits to the DMV on your behalf. It proves that you have adequate insurance coverage.1
Here’s what drivers in Nevada need to know about SR-22 insurance after a high-risk violation.
Cheapest companies for SR-22 insurance in Nevada
An SR-22 typically follows a violation, so your insurance will consider you a high-risk driver, and your rates will likely increase. The good news is that you can still find affordable coverage. Here are the best options.
What is SR-22 insurance in Nevada?
An SR-22 form isn’t an insurance policy. The forms are certificates of financial responsibility and prove to the state that you have adequate insurance coverage that meets Nevada’s minimum amounts of property damage and bodily injury liability.
A state government official or a local judge determines if you need the form. You might need it on file after a high-risk violation, like driving under the influence or driving without insurance. Because you’ve had a serious violation, the state wants to confirm your coverage in case it happens again.
Filing the form doesn’t cost much, but insurers charge more for coverage if you need SR-22 insurance since it signifies that you’re riskier to insure. Your insurer submits the form to the Nevada Department of Motor Vehicles, and you must maintain coverage for three years from the date of license reinstatement.
Difference between SR-22 and FR-44
Nevada doesn’t require drivers to hold FR-44 insurance. The FR-44 form is similar to an SR-22 form — both provide proof of insurance coverage after a high-risk violation.
The biggest difference is that Florida and Virginia are the only states that require FR-44 insurance. Plus, FR-44 insurance usually has higher minimum-coverage requirements. Drivers who need FR-44 insurance in those states might also have more severe violations.
When you need SR-22 insurance
You must have SR-22 insurance after you receive notice from a court order or the state government. The form proves that you have adequate coverage and is only necessary after you’re at fault for a high-risk violation.
Here are the most common reasons drivers need an SR-22:2
Driving under the influence (DUI)
Driving without insurance
Driving without a license
Repeat at-fault car accidents
Multiple traffic tickets in a short time period
Reckless driving, including driving significantly over the speed limit
How to get SR-22 insurance in Nevada
You can get SR-22 insurance from almost any insurance company in Nevada, but you should confirm with an agent before finalizing coverage. Some insurers have separate departments that handle SR-22 forms. The more experience an insurer has with the form, the easier it is for you.
Here’s how to get SR-22 insurance in Nevada:
How long Nevada requires SR-22 insurance
Nevada drivers must have SR-22 insurance for three years from the date of license reinstatement. You need continuous coverage, and there can’t be any gaps, so it’s critical to always make payments on time and maintain an active policy.
Your insurance company must notify the DMV immediately if you have a lapse in coverage. The DMV will suspend your driver’s license and vehicle registration. You have to pay a $75 fee to reinstate it, and insurance will cost more because of the lapse in coverage.
How SR-22 insurance affects driving record and future rates in Nevada
An SR-22 form indirectly increases the cost of auto insurance. Insurance companies consider driving records when determining insurance rates. High-risk violations, like driving under the influence and repeat at-fault accidents, cause rates to increase and require you to file an SR-22. So, while the form directly doesn’t affect your rates, your actions that resulted in an SR-22 do.
Here’s how you can keep costs down when you need SR-22 insurance:3
Avoid a lapse in coverage. If your coverage lapses, the DMV will suspend your license and registration, you’ll need to restart your SR-22 timeline, and your insurance costs will increase even more.
Shop for the best rates. Compare quotes from at least three insurers to find the best deal. Getting a quote only takes a few minutes and can save you hundreds of dollars.
Bundle policies. Consider whether you can bundle multiple insurance policies with the same company. Most insurers offer a discount if you have more than one type of insurance policy, such as renters and auto.
Switch to a low-mileage policy. Some insurers offer low-mileage policy options that can help you save money if you don’t drive much. You typically pay a small monthly fee and then a per-mile rate.