Home » SR-22 Insurance State Guide

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: Mar 20, 2024

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What is SR-22 Car Insurance?

Colorado SR-22 is a form that will be filed to prove the fiscal responsibility of a driver in the event of an accident. This is also a way that a driver can prove that they have in fact been maintaining continuous liability coverage if documentation is required. A driver will need to initiate the filing by contacting an insurance carrier-who will then file the form with the Motor Vehicle Division.

Six major factors affect car insurance rates in Colorado. Which auto insurance factors will impact SR-22 rates the most? Typically, that’s a CO DUI, but there could be a constant influx because of road violations, tickets, and other infractions that add up.

Who needs SR-22 Car Insurance?

High-risk drivers, such as those with numerous speeding tickets, reckless driving violations or driving under the influence judgments will need to file a Colorado SR-22 auto insurance form. Those drivers who are seeking to have their licenses reinstated once they are revoked will also need to file, as well as those who have insurance suspensions. Additionally, those drivers with 12 or more demerit points on their license and those who have safety responsibility suspensions will be required to obtain Colorado SR-22 forms.

Are there different types of Colorado SR-22 Forms?

In Colorado, there are three different types of SR-22 forms. An Owner-Operator Certificate is used to cover fiscal responsibility for any vehicle that is either owned by, or driven by a motorist. In addition to that, there are separate forms for those who do not own a car. This is known as the Operator’s Certificate, and for those who do own a vehicle: the Owner’s Certificate.

Is SR-22 Car Insurance required in Colorado?

Because the State of Colorado requires 25/50/15 liability coverage-yes, SR-22 insurance is required. Those motorists who must obtain Colorado SR-22 forms will need to carry the coverage for at least 36 months. Those who allow the coverage to lapse will be reported to the Department of Motor Vehicles and may face suspensions, fines or imprisonment.

How much will SR-22 insurance cost in Colorado?

SR-22 is relatively inexpensive; however, SR-22 is a red flag to your insurance provider that you have problems with your driving history and are now a high risk loss. Requesting and obtaining an SR-22 lets your insurance company know something is going on with your driving history and encourages the insurance company to investigate further into why you are being required to have an SR-22. This investigation oftentimes leads to your insurance company finding out about your DUI or other traffic issues. This information is what causes the insurance company to dramatically raise your rates as they now classify you as high risk.Just like normal car insurance that has owner’s and non-owner’s policy – SR22 has the same too. In Colorado, you may be required to obtain SR22 whether you own or do not own a car.

Read more: What happens if you can’t afford SR-22 insurance?

How long do you need an SR-22 in Colorado?

You usually need to keep your SR-22 form active for three years. If your SR-22 insurance coverage becomes inactive during any part of those three years, you’ll need to get a new SR-22 filing and start the three-year period again.

How do I file a Colorado SR-22 Car Insurance Form?

Drivers who need to file a Colorado SR-22 auto insurance form will need to find an authorized auto insurance carrier that offers the forms. Once a small fee is paid, usually at the time of paying the premium, the auto insurance company will file the form with the State of Colorado.

The Bottom Line

SR stands for “safety responsibility.” SR-22 insurance is a certificate that tells the state you’ve obtained the minimum auto insurance coverage required in Colorado. This form offers reassurance that if you’re in an accident, you’ll be sufficiently covered.

If you need an SR-22 to get an auto insurance policy in Colorado, you’re not the only one.