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: Dec 4, 2023

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What is Illinois SR-22 Insurance?

An Illinois SR-22 car insurance certificate, also known as a financial responsibility insurance form, serves as proof that you are financially responsible for carrying the minimum required amount of insurance on your vehicle.

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

Who needs SR-22 Insurance in Illinois?

Illinois SR-22 car insurance must be carried by drivers who have had their drivers’ licenses revoked or suspended due to driving without insurance; drivers with more than three insurance violation convictions; or drivers with unsatisfied judgments suspensions (unsatisfied judgments due to an accident they caused).

Are there different types of Illinois SR-22 Insurance Forms?

There are three types of Illinois SR-22 auto insurance certificates: Operator, Owner and Operator-Owner. The Operator’s Certificate covers financial responsibility for drivers who do not own a vehicle. The Owner’s Certificate covers financial responsibility for drivers who own a vehicle. The Operator’s-Owner’s Certificate covers financial responsibility for all vehicles owned or not owned by a driver.

Is SR-22 Insurance required in Illinois?

All motorists in Illinois must carry liability insurance or file an Illinois SR-22 car insurance certificate with the Secretary of State. Whether you are driving in Chicago, Springfield or anywhere else – it is necessary. Failure to do so results in a $500 fine and suspension of your driver’s license and registration.

How do I file an IL SR-22 Car Insurance Form?

Your insurance company can file an SR-22 with the Illinois Secretary of State. The insurance company will charge a fee for providing an SR-22 certificate on your behalf.  You can go online here to request a quote from state-authorized agencies in your area. Your insurer should file the Illinois SR-22 insurance policy within 30 days of your request. Once accepted, your insurer will send you the SR-22 accompanied by a letter from the Illinois Secretary of State. You must maintain the Illinois SR-22 car insurance for three years and renew it 45 days before expiration. If you fail to renew your SR-22 at least 15 days before expiration, your insurer is required to notify the state of Illinois, who may suspend your license until the Illinois SR-22 car insurance is reinstated.

Illinois SR-22 Insurance: The Bottom Line

The traffic offenses that can result in an SR-22 insurance requirement vary from state to state. You’ll need SR-22 insurance coverage in Illinois and elsewhere if you commit a severe violation, such as driving with a suspended license, driving without insurance coverage, reckless driving or DUI. If you are looking for auto insurance coverage after an accident or ticket, compare prices from several companies.

The period you need to have SR-22 insurance coverage in Illinois depends on your offense, but it is three years in most cases.