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Written by:

Elijah Black

Lead Insurance Writer

Elijah Black is a Greenville, South Carolina native with a B.A. English from Coastal Carolina University. He is a fiction writer and also works as a freelance writer and editor. He’s worked as a Production Assistant for WYFF 4 and has been published in several publications and websites across the United States.

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Written by Elijah Black

Lead Insurance Writer

Reviewed by:

Rachael Brennan

Licensed Auto Insurance Agent

Rachael Brennan has been working in the insurance industry since 2006 when she began working as a licensed insurance representative for 21st Century Insurance, during which time she earned her Property and Casualty license in all 50 states. After several years she expanded her insurance expertise, earning her license in Health and AD&D insurance as well. She has worked for small health in...

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Reviewed by Rachael Brennan

Licensed Auto Insurance Agent

UPDATED: Feb 24, 2024

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What is an SR-22 Bond?

If you have received a notice from the DMV you may be wondering just what is a SR-22 bond . An SR-22 bond is a document filed with the Secretary of State, or the State Department that states that you are financially responsible for any debts that will be accrued if you are found at fault in an automobile accident. Basically, this means that you have the proper insurance coverage, or a large deposit with the Treasury Department.

Read more: SR-22 Bond Insurance

Who Needs an SR-22 Bond?

Now that you know what an SR-22 bond is you need to know why you need one. There are a few reasons why a person is required to maintain an SR-22 bond, the first one being a lapse in financial responsibility. Any time your insurance coverage lapses the insurance company must inform the DMV. The DMV will suspend your license, revoke your car registrations, charge you a fine, and tell you that you have to get an SR22. If you have managed to accrue a number of traffic violations in a short period of time, you will get the same news. When you are picked up for a DUI, you can be sure part of the sentence will be the filing of an SR-22 bond before you can drive again.

How Long Will I Need an SR-22 Bond?

In most cases, an SR-22 bond is required for three years. As long as you keep your insurance coverage current you will not need to do anything after you first tell your insurance agent. He will simply file the SR-22 bond papers as your insurance is renewed.

It really is that simple, an SR-22 bond is filed so the DMV knows the status of your insurance policy at all times. What is a SR-22 bond? It is proof.