If you’ve had to file an SR-22, you’ve likely noticed that your insurance rates increased. That’s because an SR-22 filing labels you as a high-risk driver in the eyes of insurance companies.
The good news? You don’t have to pay high premiums forever. With the right approach, you can lower your insurance costs over time and rebuild your driving record.
Here’s how.
1. Maintain Continuous Coverage
One of the biggest factors affecting your rates after an SR-22 is insurance consistency.
If your policy lapses — even for a single day — your insurer is required to notify the DMV, and your license could be suspended again.
Even worse, a lapse restarts your SR-22 filing period, meaning you’ll be paying high-risk rates for even longer.
💡 Tip: Set up automatic payments or calendar reminders to avoid any missed payments.
2. Keep a Clean Driving Record
Time is your best friend after an SR-22. Every year you go without another ticket, accident, or violation helps reduce your risk rating.
Over time, your driving record will begin to “reset” — and insurers will start offering you lower premiums again.
💡 Tip: Follow all traffic laws carefully. One small speeding ticket can restart your high-risk classification.
3. Complete a Defensive Driving Course
Many states — including South Carolina, North Carolina, and Georgia — offer approved defensive driving courses that can help you remove points from your license or qualify for insurance discounts.
Completing one of these classes shows insurers that you’re committed to becoming a safer driver.
💡 Tip: Ask your Upstate’s Choice Insurance agent which defensive driving programs are recognized by your state and carriers.
4. Compare Quotes Regularly
Every insurance company calculates risk differently. Some specialize in high-risk drivers and offer better rates than others.
As your SR-22 filing ages (usually after 12–18 months of clean driving), it’s a good time to shop around again.
At Upstate’s Choice Insurance, we compare multiple top-rated carriers — including Progressive, National General, Liberty Mutual, and more — to find the best price for your current situation.
💡 Tip: Independent agents can often save you hundreds by switching you to a lower-cost company as your record improves.
5. Drive a Vehicle That’s Cheap to Insure
The type of vehicle you drive has a big impact on your premium.
High-performance cars, new models, and luxury vehicles all cost more to insure.
If possible, consider driving a reliable, older vehicle with good safety ratings and low repair costs while your SR-22 is active.
💡 Tip: Ask your agent for an estimate of what different vehicles would cost to insure before buying.
6. Ask About Discounts
Even drivers with an SR-22 can qualify for savings.
You may be eligible for:
- Multi-policy discounts (bundle auto, renters, or home insurance)
- Paperless or autopay discounts
- Safe driver or telematics programs
- Loyalty or renewal discounts
💡 Tip: Review your policy every 6–12 months with your agent to make sure you’re getting every available discount.
7. Stay Patient and Persistent
Most SR-22 requirements last three years. Once that period ends, your insurance company will remove the SR-22 filing from your policy — and your rates can drop significantly.
The key is staying insured, staying safe, and staying consistent.
Get Expert Help Lowering Your Rates
At Upstate’s Choice Insurance, we specialize in helping drivers across South Carolina, North Carolina, and Georgia get affordable coverage — even after an SR-22.
We’ll help you:
- File or remove your SR-22
- Find the best rates as your record improves
- Qualify for every discount available
- Get back to standard insurance as quickly as possible
🚗 Don’t overpay because of your past — get a free quote today and start saving!
📍 www.upstateschoice.com