License Suspended? The Lowdown on SR22 Insurance in Florida
We all go through rough patches sometimes, and if you find yourself in the middle of one, it may seem like there is no end in sight.
If you are a Florida driver who has recently had their license suspended, you may have been told you need an SR22 to begin your road to redemption. Or at least reinstate your license. Here's what you need to know about obtaining an SR22 filing in Florida.
Florida SR22 Insurance
First, it's essential to understand that an SR22 is not a separate insurance policy but is a filing that shows you are carrying auto insurance. Requirements may differ, but typically you need one for at least three years.
While the actual fee to add the SR22 to your auto, insurance policy may be low, your actual insurance rates may increase depending on the reason you need the SR22. You may also become what is known as a high-risk driver. This means some insurers will not insure you. However, as an independent insurance agency, we work with multiple carriers and can place you with one that specializes in insuring drivers with less than perfect driving records.
In Florida, the minimum required liability limits are as follows:
$10,000 of bodily insurance coverage per person involved in an accident
$20,000 of bodily insurance coverage per accident
$10,000 of property damage coverage per accident
If you need an SR22 in Florida, this is the coverage you must maintain to be compliant.
SR22 Process for Florida Drivers
Locating your SR22 case number – The first thing you will need is your SR22 case number. You can find this number on the letter that the DMV sent you stating that you need SR22 insurance. It may say "FR sanction number" followed by a nine-digit number. This case number will be the same for the duration of the SR22 requirement. You must have the case number to purchase SR22 insurance. Keep that in mind if you ever change insurance carriers.
Make sure you qualify for reinstatement – Before you start shopping for auto insurance, call the Florida DMV to make sure you are eligible for reinstatement. Be aware of any additional requirements you need to complete as well. Get a total amount for the cost, including reinstatement fees and any other unpaid items. It is possible that you may be asked to participate in a driver improvement class as well. If you so, the DMV can give you a list of courses in your area.
Buy the right type of SR22 insurance – If all the steps above are complete, you are ready to get reinstated, you can now purchase insurance. If you do not have your own car, you may need a non-owner policy. If you do own a vehicle, a regular SR22 insurance policy will be enough. Purchasing SR22 insurance at least five days in advance will ensure the DMV has a copy of your SR22 filing. Most insurance carriers file them electronically.
Head to the DMV – Once the above steps have been completed, it is time to reinstate your driver's license. If you purchased the SR22 ahead of time, the DMV should have proof of coverage. If not, it's no problem for us to send a copy of the SR22 directly to the DMV on your behalf. During the reinstatement process, it's a good idea to ask when your SR22 will no longer be necessary so you can have it removed then. The Florida DMV will not notify you or the insurance carrier when the SR22 is no longer needed. It's best to ask ahead of time.
For more about SR22 filings and how we can help, please call today at (954) 371-0010.