What is an Illinois SR-22 Auto Insurance Certificate?

If you’re wondering “What is an SR-22?” its name is definitely not doing you any favors. Luckily for you, we deal with Illinois SR-22 insurance certificates quite a bit here at Illinois Insurance Center, so we can fill you in on everything you need to know. Though the phrase “SR-22 Insurance” is common, it’s not entirely accurate: An SR-22 isn’t actually insurance, as we’ll explain.

Take a look at this brief guide to help demystify the important information you need to know about SR-22s.

If you’re currently searching for an Illinois SR-22 insurance certificate, you know that it’s not going to be an especially fun process. To be in the position requiring SR-22 insurance, a driver must have done something to warrant having their license suspended or revoked. For example, you may be required to get SR-22 car insurance if you had a DUI, received several tickets during a short timespan, or were caught driving without Illinois auto insurance. By this point, what’s happened has happened, so let’s instead focus on how you can put this problem in your rearview mirror!

SR-22 auto insurance essentially serves as proof to the state of Illinois that you’re carrying sufficient insurance as a risky driver. This certificate will make it so that you can get your license back sooner. It’s important to also point out that you can’t just file for Illinois SR-22 insurance yourself; instead, an auto insurance provider must file it with the DMV on your behalf.

The Illinois Insurance Center offers quotes for SR-22 car insurance certificates in Chicago and various other suburbs of Illinois. Contact an insurance specialist to start the process of applying for SR-22 insurance.

Not every Illinois auto insurance company offers SR-22 insurance certificates. If you already have insurance, you’ll just need to see if your insurer is able to add on an SR-22 (some companies will opt to avoid the additional risk). If you don’t have insurance, you’ll need to find an insurer who will file an Illinois or Chicago SR-22 auto insurance certificate. From there, you can purchase insurance. While you’re carrying SR-22 insurance certificate, it’s crucial that you don’t cancel your insurance policy or allow it to lapse. Your Illinois auto insurance company is legally required to contact the state if you do so, meaning you’ll quickly lose your license.

The actual Illinois and Chicago SR-22 car insurance certificate is inexpensive, typically around $25. However, because the certificate signifies that its holder is a high-risk driver, you will typically face auto insurance premiums more expensive than if you didn’t have SR-22 insurance. In Illinois, If all goes well for three years, you will be free of your obligation to carry SR-22 auto insurance. Beware that driving without a license or without an SR-22 insurance certificate or insurance (if you’ve been ordered to file an SR-22) can result in very steep punishments, even serious jail time. If you value the prospect of regaining a clean driving record and lower insurance premiums, it’s crucial to talk to an Illinois or Chicago insurance provider about SR-22 car insurance certificates.

Illinois Insurance Center is here to help you move on from the past. We provide two types of SR-22s: one meant for the owner of a vehicle, the other for the driver (but not owner) of a vehicle. Give us a call at (866) 910-2601 to speak with one of our insurance experts or contact us online to take care of your SR-22 requirement and an affordable car insurance policy after that!