Cheapest SR-22 Car Insurance In Georgia 2026

Georgia residents can get SR-22 insurance through County Financial for as low as $780 per year, covering liability only.

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Written by Cara Carlone
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Finding budget-friendly SR-22 insurance in Georgia can be tough. Insurers often raise rates significantly or simply won’t offer coverage. Through extensive research, I’ve identified the least expensive providers to help you save.

With years of experience in insurance, I’ll explain costs, coverage plans, and methods to lower premiums so you can secure the right policy without paying too much.

Average Cost Of SR-22 Insurance In Georgia

SR-22 insurance expenses in Georgia fluctuate based on the gravity of your driving offense. DUIs, at-fault collisions, and speeding citations all have the potential to considerably hike up your insurance premiums. Here’s a breakdown of the average costs of SR-22 insurance for different offenses:

Violation Annual Premium (Liability Only) Annual Premium (Full Coverage)
DUI $1,299 $2,428
At-Fault Accident $1,070 $2,210
Minor Violation $1,219 $1,760

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?

You may need SR-22 insurance if you commit serious traffic offenses such as:

  • DUI or DWI
  • Driving without insurance coverage
  • Engaging in reckless driving
  • Accumulating multiple traffic violations in a short span
  • Being involved in an at-fault accident while uninsured
  • Having your driver’s license suspended or revoked

Maintaining SR-22 coverage is mandatory for a set period (often three years). Failure to comply may result in license suspension or other penalties.

Example Scenario: Why You Might Need An SR-22

After James drove without insurance and caused an accident, the state mandated that he file an SR-22 to demonstrate proper coverage before they would reinstate his license. His insurance rates went up, and he must maintain SR-22 insurance for three years to retain his driving privileges.

Cheapest SR-22 Insurance Companies In Georgia

Looking for budget-friendly SR-22 insurance in Georgia? Here are three of the most affordable options for liability-only coverage:

  • County Financial: $780 per year
  • Mercury: $792 per year
  • Auto-Owners: $1,020 per year

Your rate may change based on your driving history and other personal details.

Cheapest SR-22 Insurance Policies With A DUI (Liability Only)

Company Annual Premium
State Farm $1,200
Progressive $1,220
Allstate $1,380
GEICO $2,100
COUNTRY Financial $780
Mercury $792
Auto-Owners $1,020

Cheapest SR-22 Insurance With Full Coverage

Need full coverage SR-22 insurance? Here are three companies offering the lowest rates for policies that include collision and comprehensive coverage:

  • County Financial: $1,320 per year
  • Mercury: $2,028 per year
  • Auto-Owners: $2,088 per year

Cheapest SR-22 Insurance Policies With A DUI (Full Coverage)

Company Annual Premium
State Farm $2,100
Progressive $3,120
Auto-Owners $2,088
GEICO $4,488
COUNTRY Financial $1,320
Mercury $2,028

SR-22 insurance costs in Georgia vary based on these factors:

  • Your driving record – Traffic violations, DUIs, and reckless driving can lead to higher premiums.
  • Your insurance provider – Some companies charge less for high-risk drivers.
  • Where you live – Cities with more accidents often have higher insurance costs.
  • The coverage you choose – Full coverage is pricier but offers more protection than liability-only.

How SR-22 Affects Car Insurance Rates

When you require an SR-22, anticipate a significant rise in your car insurance premiums, attributable not to the SR-22 itself but to the underlying violation, like a DUI or reckless driving. Typically, drivers end up paying approximately $993 more each year after they file for an SR-22.

Here’s a general 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

What Is SR-22a Insurance?

SR-22a differs from the SR-22 certificate by imposing more stringent conditions, particularly for drivers with multiple traffic violations or financial responsibility issues. This requirement is prevalent in Missouri, Georgia, and Texas.

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?

You might need an SR-22a if you:

  • Have a history of driving without insurance on multiple occasions.
  • Have been convicted of severe or repeat traffic violations.
  • Let an SR-22 policy lapse or failed to comply with insurance regulations.

How To Get SR-22a Insurance?

  1. Find an insurance provider that offers SR-22a policies – Not all insurers carry this coverage, so be prepared to explore different options.
  2. Prepay for six months – SR-22a requires full payment upfront, unlike standard SR-22 policies.
  3. Your insurer files the SR-22a with the DMV – Your license will be reinstated after processing.
  4. Keep your policy active – A lapse can restart the required coverage period and lead to further consequences.

Penalties For Not Maintaining SR-22a

Not maintaining an SR-22a policy can lead to an immediate license suspension and require you to restart the filing process.

Cheapest Non-Owner SR-22 Insurance Companies In Georgia

For those who need an SR-22 but don’t own a vehicle, a non-owner policy provides proof of financial responsibility and keeps your license valid. This coverage is perfect for people who regularly rent or borrow cars. In Georgia, the most budget-friendly non-owner SR-22 insurers are:

  • Auto-Owners – $375 per year
  • State Farm – $728 per year
  • Geico – $656 per year

Below is a comparison of these affordable providers.

Company Annual Premium
Auto-Owners $375
State Farm $728
Geico $656
Travelers $1,100
Progressive $1,120

What Is Non-Owner SR-22 Insurance?

  • If you don’t own a car but need SR-22 insurance, a non-owner policy provides liability coverage.
  • It pays for damages and injuries caused to others while driving a borrowed or rented car.
  • The policy does NOT cover damage to the vehicle itself—only liability.
  • It costs less than a traditional SR-22 policy because vehicle coverage isn’t included.

Who Needs Non-Owner SR-22 Insurance?

You might need a non-owner SR-22 insurance policy if:

    • Your license was suspended and an SR-22 is required for reinstatement.
    • You have a DUI/DWI conviction but don’t own a car.
    • You often drive rented or borrowed vehicles and need liability insurance.

Insider Advice: The cost of insurance can fluctuate depending on your driving background, location, and the policies of your insurer. To secure the most favorable rate, compare quotes from various sources and see if you meet criteria for discounts such as safe driving or combining policies.

How To File An SR-22

In Georgia, follow these steps to file an SR-22 and adhere to state regulations.

Find An Insurance Company That Offers SR-22 Coverage

Check with your current insurer to see if they offer SR-22 filings; if not, compare quotes from insurers specializing in high-risk drivers.

1

Purchase A Minimum Coverage Auto Insurance Policy

Georgia mandates that you maintain at least the state’s minimum liability coverage prior to filing an SR-22. Your insurer will attach the SR-22 form to your policy.

2

Pay The SR-22 Filing Fee

Expect a one-time filing fee from your insurer, usually around $15 to $25, to submit the SR-22 form to the Georgia DMV.

3

Wait For The DMV To Process Your SR-22

The DMV usually needs 7 to 10 business days to process your SR-22 form. To ensure it’s accepted, check your driving record online or give the DMV a call.

4

Maintain Continuous Coverage For The Required Period

SR-22 is generally required in Georgia for three years. It’s important to maintain continuous insurance coverage during this period. If your insurance lapses due to cancellation, your insurer must inform the DMV, potentially resulting in your license being suspended.

5

Request SR-22 Removal Once Your Requirement Ends

When three years have elapsed, contact your insurer and request the removal of the SR-22 from your policy. Doing so could lead to reduced premiums, since rates for high-risk drivers often decrease once the SR-22 obligation is lifted.

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Advice for Authors: If the insurance company you’re with doesn’t have SR-22 coverage, think about checking out non-standard insurers that cater to high-risk drivers, such as Dairyland, The General, or Bristol West.

How Long Do I Need To Have SR-22 Insurance?

States vary in how long an SR-22 form is required. In Georgia, it’s mandatory for at least three years, potentially up to five years based on specific conditions. Remember, if you move away from the state, you must continue to maintain the SR-22.

What Can Affect How Long You Need An SR-22?

The required SR-22 filing period is determined by the nature of the violation. Examples include:

  • DUI/DWI: Typically 3 to 5 years.
  • Reckless driving: Usually between 2 and 3 years.
  • Driving without insurance: Can last from 1 to 3 years.
  • Multiple infractions: Depends on state laws but is often 3 years.

What Happens If You Let SR-22 Coverage Lapse?

Allowing your SR-22 coverage to lapse before the mandated period ends will prompt your insurer to notify the DMV. Consequences may include:

  • Losing your driving privileges
  • Resetting your SR-22 filing timeline
  • Facing higher insurance costs

Other Effects Of SR-22 Insurance

When you file an SR-22, it doesn’t just alter your insurance rates; it can also impact your driving rights, financial decisions, and even job opportunities. Here’s what happens:

1. Increased Insurance Costs

An SR-22 filing significantly raises your insurance premiums.

  • DUI offenses: Costs may increase two to three times.
  • Multiple violations: Expect at least a 50% jump in rates.
  • Reckless driving: Higher premiums for 3-5 years.

2. Limited Insurance Options

SR-22 filings aren’t available from all insurance companies. High-risk drivers may be dropped by some insurers and left to find coverage from non-standard providers, who often have higher premiums.

3. Risk Of License Suspension

Not submitting or keeping up with an SR-22 can cause your license to be suspended immediately. You’ll need to:

  • Settle any outstanding fines
  • Reinstate your SR-22 coverage
  • Show proof of valid insurance to the DMV

4. Potential Loss Of Car Registration

Some states suspend your vehicle registration if your insurance policy lapses. This means you won’t be able to renew your license plates or legally operate the vehicle.

Example: In California, an SR-22 lapse triggers an automatic registration suspension until valid insurance proof is provided.

5. Employment Consequences

An SR-22 requirement can make it harder to find jobs that need a clean driving record, such as:

  • Commercial truck driving (CDL holders)
  • Uber or Lyft rideshare driving
  • Package or food delivery

Many employers avoid hiring drivers with SR-22 filings due to increased insurance risks.

6. Restrictions On Leasing Or Financing A Car

Before financing a vehicle, lenders check your driving history. If an SR-22 is required:

  • Interest rates may increase.
  • Certain financial institutions may decline your application.
  • Active lease contracts could be revoked.

SR-22 Insurance State Requirements

Each state has its own regulations concerning SR-22s. Some, like Delaware, Kentucky, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, and Oklahoma, do not enforce SR-22 requirements. However, states such as Florida and Virginia may require an SR-22 along with an FR-22 for offenses 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

Comparison of Forms:

    • SR-22 – Ensures you maintain insurance moving forward.
    • SR-50 – Proves you had prior coverage.
    • FR-22 – Imposes stricter liability requirements in certain states.

How Much Does Credit Score Affect SR-22 Insurance Costs

Your credit score has a significant impact on car insurance expenses, especially if you require an SR-22. Insurers utilize credit-based insurance scores to predict the likelihood of claims. Lower scores mean higher risk and increased premiums.

How Credit Score Impacts SR-22 Insurance Costs In Georgia

Key Takeaways:

  • Poor credit can lead to a 72% increase in car insurance premiums.
  • An SR-22 requirement typically adds 18% to the cost.
  • A driver facing both could see their insurance costs double compared to 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

If your state demands an SR-22, you must adhere to it. Yet, in some states, an SR-22 isn’t obligatory; instead, they use various financial responsibility documents. Here, we discuss alternatives to SR-22 and their state-specific requirements.

Can You Get Car Insurance Without An SR-22?

If a DUI or reckless driving charge has led to an SR-22 requirement, you must obtain one to reinstate your license. Some alternatives include:

  • State High-Risk Insurance Pools: Some states offer Assigned Risk Plans (ARP) for drivers who have trouble finding coverage. These don’t eliminate SR-22 requirements but provide necessary insurance.
  • Non-Owner SR-22 Insurance: If you don’t own a car, this policy may be cheaper than traditional auto insurance with an SR-22.
  • Letting Time Pass: If you can avoid driving for now, you might wait until your SR-22 requirement ends before purchasing a new policy.

How To Get Cheaper Car Insurance In Georgia After A DUI

After a DUI, your car insurance costs may rise, but there are ways to minimize the impact. Compare quotes from different providers, as some may offer more competitive rates. Check for discounts, such as defensive driving courses or bundling policies.

Additionally, avoiding further infractions is key—DUI-related increases typically last 3-5 years, but maintaining a good record can help lower your premiums over time.

Our Methodology

We researched competitive SR-22 insurance rates for high-risk drivers, including those with DUIs or reckless driving infractions. Our sample quote was based on a 30-year-old male with average credit driving a 2017 Toyota Camry LE with full coverage. The policy included:

$50,000 bodily injury per person / $100,000 per accident

$50,000 property damage coverage per accident

Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist: $50,000 per person / $100,000 per accident

$500 deductibles for comprehensive and collision coverage

Your premium may vary depending on location, driving history, and past insurance coverage.

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Quotes Analyzed

15+

Years Of Industry Experience

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Brands Reviewed

35+

Research Hours

FAQs

Do you need SR-22 insurance if you don’t have a car?

Even without a car, you might still require SR-22 insurance. If you’re mandated to have SR-22 due to a driving violation, obtaining a non-owner SR-22 policy is necessary.

How do you get rid of SR-22?

If you want to eliminate SR-22 insurance, you must maintain consistent coverage for the duration mandated by your state. Once this period is up and you no longer need SR-22, you can request your insurance provider to exclude it from your policy.

How much does SR-22 cost?

The price of SR-22 insurance varies based on your state, driving record, and insurer. You’ll typically pay a one-time filing fee between $15 and $25, along with higher premiums.

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.

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