SR22 Insurance Wisconsin: All You Need to Know

Driving without proper car insurance is illegal in Wisconsin. In case of accidents, it can lead to chaotic legal and financial consequences. However, things can become even more complicated if you have a past history of driving violations, such as DUIs or reckless driving. In such cases, you may be required to secure an SR22 insurance certificate, a special form of car insurance that confirms your financial responsibility. This article will guide you through the process of obtaining SR22 insurance in Wisconsin, answering your most pressing questions along the way.

What is SR22 Insurance in Wisconsin?

In Wisconsin, SR22 insurance is a certificate issued by an insurance company that proves that you have the required minimum insurance coverage that allows you to drive legally after violating traffic rules or getting into accidents without adequate insurance coverage. The state of Wisconsin requires this certificate to reinstate your driving privileges after a suspension or revocation of your license.

SR22 insurance is not a special type of insurance policy; it is just a certificate attached to your existing car insurance policy that proves to the state that you’re sufficiently insured.

When do you need SR22 Insurance in Wisconsin?

You may be required to get SR22 insurance in Wisconsin if you have been convicted of a serious driving offense or if you’ve been involved in an accident, and you don’t have proper car insurance coverage. The offenses that require an SR22 certificate to reinstate your license include, but are not limited to:

Offense	Minimum Suspension	SR22 Required?
Operating While Intoxicated (OWI)	6 months	Yes
Driving with a Suspended License	1 year	Yes
Driving without Insurance	4 months	Yes
Hit-and-Run with Death or Injury	5 years	Yes
Refusal to take a chemical test	1 year	Yes

If you’re not sure whether you need SR22 insurance or not, it’s best to contact your insurance company or the Wisconsin DMV for clarification.

How to Obtain SR22 Insurance in Wisconsin?

If you need SR22 insurance in Wisconsin, follow these steps:

1. Contact Your Insurance Company

The first thing you need to do is contact your insurance company and ask if they offer SR22 certificates. If they do not, you will need to find a licensed insurance company in the state of Wisconsin that provides this service. You can search for such companies online or ask for recommendations from your friends or family.

2. Provide the necessary information

You will need to provide your insurance company with all the necessary information required by the state of Wisconsin. This includes your full name, address, driver’s license number, and vehicle information. The insurance company will then file the appropriate forms with the Wisconsin Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) on your behalf.

3. Pay the Fees

When you purchase your SR22 insurance policy, you will have to pay a fee in addition to your regular insurance premiums. The amount of this fee varies from one insurance company to another.

4. Receive Your SR22 Certificate

Once your insurance company has filed the necessary paperwork, you will receive your SR22 certificate. You will need to keep this certificate in your vehicle at all times while driving. Also, remember to renew your policy on time to avoid any lapses in coverage or license suspension.

How Much Does SR22 Insurance Cost in Wisconsin?

The cost of SR22 insurance in Wisconsin varies from one insurance company to another. Some companies may charge a flat rate of $25 for filing the SR22 certificate, while others may charge more. The cost of your SR22 insurance policy will depend on several factors, including your driving record, age, gender, and the type of car you drive.

How Long Does SR22 Insurance Last in Wisconsin?

In Wisconsin, you must maintain your SR22 insurance certificate for a minimum of three years. If, during this period, you lapse in your coverage or fail to renew your policy, the state will be notified by your insurance company, and your driving privileges will be suspended or revoked.

What Happens if I Move to Another State?

Suppose you move to another state while still required to maintain an SR22 certificate in Wisconsin. In that case, you will need to continue filing the certificate in Wisconsin until you’ve met the minimum requirements or the court has released you from the obligation.

The Bottom Line

Securing SR22 insurance in Wisconsin may be an inconvenience, but it is the law. Ensure that you get the right coverage from a reputable insurance company, and make sure to keep your coverage active for the entire required period. If you have any questions, contact your insurance company or the Wisconsin DMV for clarification. Remember, driving without proper insurance coverage can lead to serious legal and financial consequences.

FAQs

1. What is the difference between SR22 and regular auto insurance?

SR22 insurance is not a different type of auto insurance policy; it is just a certificate attached to your existing insurance policy that proves to the state that you’re adequately insured. Regular auto insurance is the standard coverage that provides you with the required protection when driving on public roads.

2. Why is SR22 insurance required in Wisconsin?

SR22 insurance is required in Wisconsin to ensure that drivers who have violated traffic rules or have gotten into accidents without proper insurance coverage have adequate coverage before they are allowed to drive again legally.

3. What happens if I fail to renew my SR22 insurance policy?

If you fail to renew your SR22 insurance policy or let it lapse, the state will be notified, and your driving privileges will be suspended or revoked.

4. Can I switch insurance companies if I have an SR22 certificate?

Yes, you can switch insurance companies even if you have an SR22 certificate. Just make sure that you secure SR22 coverage from your new insurance company before canceling your old coverage to avoid any lapses in coverage.

5. Is it possible to drive without an SR22 certificate in Wisconsin?

No, it is illegal to drive without an SR22 certificate in Wisconsin if you have been ordered by the court to get one.