A DUI conviction can have serious consequences, including a suspended driver’s license, higher insurance costs, and the requirement to carry an SR-22 filing.
If you’ve been told you need an SR-22 after a DUI, don’t panic — it’s more common than you think, and the process is easier when you know the right steps.
Here’s everything you need to know about how to get an SR-22 and get back on the road legally.
What Is an SR-22?
An SR-22 is a certificate of financial responsibility that your insurance company files with the state DMV to prove you carry the required minimum liability coverage.
It’s often required after:
- A DUI or DWI conviction
- Driving without insurance
- Reckless driving or multiple traffic violations
- An at-fault accident without insurance
- License suspension or revocation
It’s important to note:
The SR-22 is not insurance itself — it’s proof that you have insurance.
Step 1: Wait for Eligibility to Reinstate Your License
After your DUI, the state will typically suspend your driver’s license for a set period (varies by state and prior offenses).
Once your suspension period ends, you’ll need to:
- Complete any required DUI classes or programs
- Pay any fines or reinstatement fees
- Show proof of financial responsibility (that’s where the SR-22 comes in)
You cannot legally drive until your SR-22 is filed and accepted by the DMV.
Step 2: Contact an Insurance Agency That Handles SR-22 Filings
Not all insurance companies offer SR-22 filings — but Upstate’s Choice Insurance does.
As an independent agency, we work with multiple carriers in South Carolina, North Carolina, and Georgia to find you the most affordable SR-22 policy available — even after a DUI.
We’ll handle the paperwork and electronically file your SR-22 with the DMV for you.
Step 3: Choose the Right Type of SR-22 Policy
Depending on your situation, you’ll need one of two types of SR-22s:
| Type | Description | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Owner SR-22 | Covers vehicles you own | Drivers who have a personal car |
| Non-Owner SR-22 | Covers you when driving vehicles you don’t own (like rentals or borrowed cars) | Drivers who don’t currently own a vehicle |
We’ll help you determine which type is right for your specific case.
Step 4: Maintain Continuous Coverage
Once your SR-22 is filed, you must keep your insurance active for the full required period — usually three years in South Carolina, North Carolina, and Georgia.
If your policy lapses or cancels, your insurer must notify the DMV immediately, which could result in:
- License suspension again
- Restarting your SR-22 period from the beginning
💡 Tip: Set up automatic payments or reminders to avoid coverage lapses.
Step 5: Remove the SR-22 When Eligible
After you’ve met your state’s SR-22 requirements (typically 36 months), your insurer can file an SR-26 form to remove the SR-22 from your record.
At that point, you can switch back to a standard auto insurance policy — often at a much lower rate.
How Much Does an SR-22 After a DUI Cost?
The SR-22 filing itself is inexpensive — usually between $15 and $30.
However, your auto insurance rate may increase due to the DUI and your high-risk status.
That’s why working with an independent agency like Upstate’s Choice Insurance is so valuable — we compare multiple top carriers to find the best available rate, so you can stay insured affordably.
Get Back on the Road the Right Way
At Upstate’s Choice Insurance, we specialize in helping drivers across South Carolina, North Carolina, and Georgia get SR-22 coverage after a DUI — fast.
We’ll file your SR-22 electronically with the DMV, explain every step, and make sure you stay compliant so you can move forward confidently.
🚗 Need an SR-22 after a DUI? Contact us today for a fast, affordable quote.
📍 www.upstateschoice.com