Cheapest SR-22 Car Insurance In Texas 2026
Mercury’s SR-22 insurance in Texas starts at $660 per year, offering affordable liability-only coverage.
We’ve saved shoppers an average of $600 per year on their car insurance.
Looking for affordable SR-22 insurance in Texas? Many insurers jack up prices by 25% to 100% or refuse coverage outright. After thorough investigation, I’ve found the cheapest providers to help you save money.
Drawing on my expertise in insurance, I’ll detail costs, coverage options, and strategies to lower premiums, ensuring you secure the best policy without overpaying.
Our Methodology
We searched for the best SR-22 insurance rates for high-risk drivers, including those with DUIs or reckless driving offenses. For comparison, we generated a quote for a 30-year-old male with average credit, driving a 2017 Toyota Camry LE with full coverage:
• Bodily Injury: $50,000 per person / $100,000 per accident
• Property Damage: $50,000 per accident
• Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist: $50,000 per person / $100,000 per accident
• Comprehensive: $500 deductible
• Collision: $500 deductible
Insurance rates vary based on factors like location, driving history, and past insurance coverage.
Quotes Analyzed
Years Of Industry Experience
Brands Reviewed
Research Hours
Cheapest SR-22 Insurance Companies In Texas
Finding cheap SR-22 insurance in Texas? Consider these three insurers, offering the lowest rates for liability-only coverage:
- Mercury – $660 per year
- Progressive – $680 per year
- Texas Farm Bureau – $750 per year
Your actual premium may change based on personal circumstances.
Cheapest SR-22 Insurance Policies With A DUI (Liability Only)
| Company | Annual Premium |
| National General | $1,020 |
| Foremost | $1,250 |
| Texas Farm Bureau | $750 |
| State Farm | $900 |
| AAA | $1,080 |
| Allstate | $1,440 |
| Progressive | $680 |
| Dairyland | $1,680 |
| Geico | $1,404 |
| Mercury | $660 |
Cheapest SR-22 Insurance With Full Coverage
If you’re required to have SR-22 insurance with full coverage, here are three providers that offer the best prices on plans with collision and comprehensive protection:
- Progressive – $1,464 per year
- Texas Farm Bureau – $1,512 per year
- National General – $1,920 per year
Cheapest SR-22 Insurance Policies With A DUI (Full Coverage)
| Company | Annual Premium |
| National General | $1,920 |
| Foremost | $2,496 |
| Texas Farm Bureau | $1,512 |
| State Farm | $1,860 |
| AAA | $2,088 |
| Allstate | $2,640 |
| Progressive | $1,464 |
| Dairyland | $3,600 |
| Geico | $2,616 |
| Mercury | $2,136 |
SR-22 insurance in Texas is influenced by several key factors:
- Your driving record – The more violations you have, the higher your rates.
- Your insurance company – Some providers offer more affordable rates for high-risk drivers.
- Your home location – Those in cities may pay more due to higher accident statistics.
- Your coverage level – Full coverage offers better protection but comes at a higher cost.
What Is SR-22 Insurance?
SR-22 insurance serves as proof that you carry at least the minimum required auto insurance coverage mandated by your state, rather than being an actual insurance policy. Your insurance provider submits this documentation to the DMV to verify your coverage status.
Why Is SR-22 Insurance Required?
An SR-22 is required for drivers with violations like:
- DUI/DWI convictions
- Driving without proper insurance coverage
- Reckless or careless driving citations
- Repeated traffic violations within a short time
- At-fault accidents while uninsured
- A suspended or revoked license
You must maintain SR-22 coverage for a set period (usually three years). Any lapse could result in further consequences.
Example Scenario: Why You Might Need An SR-22
James was caught driving without insurance and had an accident. Consequently, the state now requires him to file an SR-22 to demonstrate he has sufficient coverage before reinstating his license. His insurance premiums have increased, and he needs to maintain SR-22 insurance for three years to retain his driving privileges.
What Is SR-22a Insurance?
SR-22a, a requirement in states such as Missouri, Georgia, and Texas, is a stricter alternative to the SR-22 certificate, tailored for drivers with numerous traffic violations or financial responsibility shortcomings.
| Feature | SR-22 Insurance | Sr-22a Insurance |
| Purpose | For drivers with a single serious violation (DUI, reckless driving, uninsured accident) | For drivers with multiple financial responsibility violations |
| States Required | Most states allow SR-22 | Typically required in Missouri, Georgia, and Texas |
| Premium Payment | Monthly payments allowed | Must prepay six months of premiums upfront |
| Strictness | Standard proof of insurance | Stricter enforcement for high-risk drivers |
| Non-Compliance Consequences | License suspension if coverage lapses | Immediate suspension with no grace period if coverage lapses |
Who Needs SR-22a Insurance?
SR-22a insurance may be required if:
- You have repeatedly broken financial responsibility laws, such as driving uninsured multiple times.
- You have a history of severe or frequent traffic infractions.
- Your previous SR-22 lapsed, or you failed to meet insurance obligations.
How To Get SR-22a Insurance?
- Find an insurance provider that issues SR-22a policies – Since not all insurers offer this, compare multiple options.
- Pay for six months upfront – Unlike standard SR-22 coverage, an SR-22a requires advance payment.
- Your insurance company files the SR-22a with the DMV – Once approved, your license will be reinstated.
- Maintain active coverage – A lapse restarts the required filing period and could lead to further consequences.
Penalties For Not Maintaining SR-22a
Immediate license suspension may occur if you fail to maintain your SR-22a policy, potentially necessitating a restart of the filing period.
Cheapest Non-Owner SR-22 Insurance Companies In Texas
Even if you don’t own a vehicle, a non-owner SR-22 policy can help you meet state requirements while allowing you to legally drive rented or borrowed cars. The most affordable non-owner SR-22 insurance providers in Texas are:
- Nationwide – $930 per year
- State Farm – $432 per year
- Geico – $920 per year
Below is a comparison of these insurers.
| Company | Annual Premium |
| Foremost | $1,580 |
| State Farm | $432 |
| Geico | $920 |
| Travelers | $1,242 |
| Nationwide | $930 |
What Is Non-Owner SR-22 Insurance?
- If you’re required to carry SR-22 insurance but don’t own a car, a non-owner policy offers the necessary liability coverage.
- Covers injuries and property damage you cause while using a borrowed or rental vehicle.
- Does NOT pay for repairs to the vehicle—only liability.
- Typically costs less than regular SR-22 policies since vehicle coverage is excluded.
Who Needs Non-Owner SR-22 Insurance?
You could require a non-owner SR-22 if:
- Your driver’s license is suspended and you need an SR-22 for reinstatement.
- You received a DUI or DWI but do not have a car.
- You often rent or borrow vehicles and need liability insurance.
Insider Knowledge: Prices for insurance can vary depending on your driving history, where you live, and your insurer’s policies. For the best value, compare quotes from several providers and see if you’re eligible for discounts such as safe driver rewards or bundling policies.
Average Cost Of SR-22 Insurance In Texas
SR-22 insurance prices in Texas can vary based on the severity of your driving violation. DUIs, accidents where you’re at fault, and speeding tickets can all result in substantial increases in insurance rates. Below is a comparison of average SR-22 insurance costs for various violations:
| Violation | Annual Premium (Liability Only) | Annual Premium (Full Coverage) |
| DUI | $1,500 | $2,500 |
| At-Fault Accident | $1,350 | $2,780 |
| Minor Violation | $1,050 | $2,070 |
How SR-22 Affects Car Insurance Rates
Requiring an SR-22 often results in a significant hike in car insurance premiums, mainly because of the underlying violation, such as a DUI or reckless driving, rather than the SR-22 form itself. Drivers usually see their premiums go up by approximately $993 per year after filing for an SR-22.
Here’s a basic breakdown of how these violations impact car insurance costs.
| Violation | Annual Premium Increase | Additional Fees |
| DUI | $1,000-$3,000 | $15-$25 SR-22 filing fee |
| At-Fault Accident | $500-$1,500 | $15-$25 |
| Driving Without Insurance | $600-$1,800 | $15-$25 |
| Reckless Driving | $800-$2,500+ | $15-$25 |
How To File An SR-22
Here’s how to complete the SR-22 filing process in Texas and remain compliant.
Find An Insurance Company That Offers SR-22 Coverage
Before switching, ask your current insurer about SR-22 filings; if not available, compare quotes from insurers that focus on high-risk drivers.
Purchase A Minimum Coverage Auto Insurance Policy
Texas requires you to have the state’s minimum liability coverage before you can file an SR-22. Your insurance provider will include the SR-22 form in your policy.
Pay The SR-22 Filing Fee
There is a single filing fee that your insurer charges, typically ranging from $15 to $25, for submitting the SR-22 form to the Texas DMV.
Wait For The DMV To Process Your SR-22
It usually takes the DMV about 7 to 10 business days to process your SR-22 form. Verify its acceptance by checking your driving record online or contacting the DMV.
Maintain Continuous Coverage For The Required Period
In Texas, you generally need an SR-22 for three years. It’s essential to maintain continuous insurance coverage during this time. If your coverage is canceled, your insurer must notify the DMV, which can result in your license being suspended.
Request SR-22 Removal Once Your Requirement Ends
After three years, reach out to your insurance company to have the SR-22 removed from your policy. This action could result in lower premiums, as insurance rates for high-risk drivers often decrease once the SR-22 is lifted.
Author’s Guide: If your current insurance doesn’t include SR-22 coverage, check out non-standard insurers that cater to high-risk drivers, like Dairyland, The General, or Bristol West.
How Long Do I Need To Have SR-22 Insurance?
The length of time you need an SR-22 form varies by state. In Texas, it’s mandatory for at least three years, potentially extending to five years depending on why you need it. Even if you move out of the state, you’re still responsible for maintaining it.
What Can Affect How Long You Need An SR-22?
The SR-22 filing period is determined by the offense. Some standard timeframes include:
- DUI/DWI: 3-5 years.
- Reckless driving: 2-3 years.
- Driving without insurance: 1-3 years.
- Multiple infractions: Generally around 3 years, state-dependent.
What Happens If You Let SR-22 Coverage Lapse?
If you drop your SR-22 insurance before the required term ends, your provider must report it to the DMV, potentially causing:
- Your license to be suspended
- A restart of the SR-22 timeline
- Higher premiums for insurance
Other Effects Of SR-22 Insurance
The process of submitting an SR-22 form doesn’t just change insurance rates; it can also affect your ability to drive legally, your financial decisions, and even job prospects. Here’s why it’s significant:
1. Increased Insurance Costs
The most immediate result of an SR-22 is higher insurance rates.
- DUI convictions: Expect your premium to double or triple.
- Multiple violations: A rate increase of 50% or more.
- Reckless driving: Increased costs for 3-5 years.
2. Limited Insurance Options
SR-22 filings aren’t provided by all insurers. Some companies opt not to cover high-risk drivers, so they have to find insurance from non-standard providers that often charge higher premiums.
3. Risk Of License Suspension
Not maintaining an SR-22 could result in an instant license suspension. To get back on the road, you’ll need to:
- Settle any unpaid fines
- Restore your SR-22 policy
- Submit proof of insurance to the DMV
4. Potential Loss Of Car Registration
Failing to maintain insurance in certain states can lead to a suspended vehicle registration, making it illegal to renew your plates or operate the car.
Example: In California, an SR-22 lapse causes automatic registration suspension until updated insurance proof is submitted.
5. Employment Consequences
Jobs that involve driving may be harder to get if you need an SR-22. Affected roles include:
- CDL truck drivers
- Rideshare drivers for Uber or Lyft
- Delivery service workers
Because of liability concerns, some employers refuse to hire drivers with an SR-22.
6. Restrictions On Leasing Or Financing A Car
Banks and leasing firms evaluate driving records for vehicle financing. With an SR-22:
- Expect higher interest rates.
- Some institutions may refuse to finance.
- Existing lease deals could be nullified.
SR-22 Insurance State Requirements
SR-22 regulations differ depending on the state. States such as Delaware, Kentucky, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, and Oklahoma do not have SR-22 requirements. However, in states like Florida and Virginia, both SR-22 and FR-22 forms might be required for certain violations like DUIs or DWIs.
| State | Alternative Form | When It’s Required |
| Florida & Virginia | FR-22 | For DUIs or reckless driving |
| Indiana | SR-50 | To verify past insurance coverage |
| Arkansas | SR-21 | Proof of insurance after an accident |
Differences at a Glance:
- SR-22 – Proof that you’ll maintain insurance.
- SR-50 – Evidence of past coverage.
- FR-22 – Stricter liability requirements (Florida, Virginia).
How Much Does Credit Score Affect SR-22 Insurance Costs
Your credit score has a significant impact on how much you pay for car insurance, especially if an SR-22 is necessary. Insurance companies rely on credit-based insurance scores to predict the likelihood of filing claims. Lower scores suggest higher risk and more expensive premiums.
How Credit Score Impacts SR-22 Insurance Costs In Texas
Understanding Insurance Rate Increases:
- Bad credit leads to an average 72% rise in car insurance costs.
- An SR-22 filing further increases rates by 18%.
- A driver dealing with both may pay twice as much as someone with good credit and no SR-22.
| Credit Score | Average SR-22 Annual Premium | % Increase |
| Excellent (750+) | $961 | – |
| Good (700 – 749) | $1,132 | +18% |
| Fair (650 – 699) | $1,472 | +53% |
| Poor (600 -649) | $1,839 | +91% |
| Very Poor (below 600) | $2,225 | +131% |
Alternatives To SR-22
States vary in their requirements for SR-22 forms, with some utilizing alternative financial responsibility options. Discover these alternatives and where they are required instead of SR-22.
Can You Get Car Insurance Without An SR-22?
If an SR-22 is required due to a serious violation, you may consider these alternatives:
- State High-Risk Insurance Pools: These programs help drivers with a poor record find insurance, though they don’t eliminate the SR-22 requirement.
- Non-Owner Insurance: A cheaper option if you don’t own a car but still need SR-22 coverage.
- Avoiding Insurance Costs: If you don’t drive, you can wait out the SR-22 requirement before purchasing insurance.
How To Get Cheaper Car Insurance In Texas After A DUI
A DUI can make your insurance more expensive, but there are ways to reduce the impact. First, compare rates from different insurers, as some charge less for high-risk drivers. Look for savings opportunities, such as defensive driving courses or policy bundling. Lastly, stay violation-free—DUI-related increases typically last a few years, but safe driving can help lower your premiums over time.
FAQs
Do you need SR-22 insurance if you don’t have a car?
Certainly, SR-22 insurance may be necessary even if you’re car-free. If you’re mandated to have SR-22 due to a driving violation, obtaining a non-owner SR-22 policy is crucial.
How do you get rid of SR-22?
Getting rid of SR-22 insurance involves keeping your coverage uninterrupted for the duration specified by your state. Once this period is over and SR-22 is no longer necessary, you can ask your insurance company to exclude it from your policy.
How much does SR-22 cost?
SR-22 insurance costs are influenced by your insurer, driving background, and location. Expect a one-time $15 to $25 filing fee and a boost in your insurance rates.
About Cara Carlone
Cara Carlone is a Chartered Property Casualty Underwriter (CPCU) with 20+ years of experience in underwriting, portfolio management, and competitive analysis. She has led underwriting strategy at LOOP and produced market research at Amica Insurance. She now applies her deep industry expertise to create clear, accurate, and consumer-focused insurance content for Insuranceopedia. In her free time, she enjoys baking, reading, and listening to podcasts.