Which States Allow SR22 Bonds?

If you live in a qualifying state and have received certain infractions, you may be required to carry one of the SR22 bonds. This isn't something that is available in all states though. Read below to see if this is something you need to concern yourself with.

SR22 simply refers to the documents that need to be filed with the state if the DMV (Department of Motor Vehicles) wants proof of financial responsibility. With this document though comes another set of requirements and costs.

If you have been required to carry an SR22 bond, then the insurance companies will see you as a bigger risk. Not all companies will insure you if you require this because of the risk factor. If you find a company that does offer coverage to high risk drivers, you will pay more in premiums. But this shouldn't deter you from obtaining a bond for a few reasons. One, the higher rates are a small price to pay to keep your license, and two, if it's been ordered then you must obtain it to satisfy the state.

In some states the courts won't order SR22, but it may be an option for you. These states are Delaware, Kentucky, Minnesota, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Pennsylvania. If you are in one of these states then you may be given the option to get SR22 to keep your license. If you are in a state that requires it and you move to one of these states, then you will need to go ahead and fulfill your prior obligations by getting the SR22 bond and have it filed. If you were ordered to maintain the bond for three years, then even moving doesn't break that requirement.

If you live in New York or North Carolina then you won't ever be required to file SR22 bonds. These states don't even offer the option. If you live in another state and move to North Carolina or New York, you may have an issue if you need to maintain an SR22 bond. Most insurance companies won't offer the filing for these states. If you find yourself in this predicament, you will need to file an appeal with the state that issued the order for SR22. This process can be lengthy, but just moving out of state won't negate the order.

SR22 bond requirements will vary based on the state and the courts order. If you have been ordered to obtain an SR22 bond, you need to understand what the court has ordered. You will also want to check with the DMV in your state to find out if there is anything special you need to know. In most cases you will be required to carry the insurance for a minimum of three years, but depending on your driving record and what infractions caused you to need it to begin with, the length of time may be longer.

It's important to know whether or not you need to carry the SR22 bond. Without one, you may lose your driving privileges.