Mark Casto | May 21, 2025 | Georgia Law
Every driver in Georgia needs insurance to drive legally. SR-22 is known as a Safety Responsibility Insurance Certificate. This certificate is not required for every Georgia driver. However, if you have been notified that you need one, it is essential to follow the process correctly to avoid further penalties or legal issues.
SR-22 for Georgia Drivers
SR-22 is simply a certificate showing you have insurance that meets Georgia’s minimum requirements for auto insurance. This type of certification is not required of all drivers, but it is often necessary for drivers who have been convicted of multiple moving violations or have no proof of insurance. Some of the offenses that may lead to an SR-22A requirement include:
- Driving without insurance
- Driving under the influence
- Reckless driving
- Driving with a suspended license
- Too many points on your license
These offenses do not automatically mean that you will need an SR-22, but they do increase your chances, especially after multiple offenses. Some may also find it surprising that you may face an SR-22 following a license suspension for lack of child support payments. Depending on your situation, the Department of Driver Services (DDS) or a court judge may require this certification.
How Will an SR-22 Affect Me?
As long as an SR-22 is valid and you maintain the required insurance, you can continue driving. This means it won’t necessarily affect your ability to drive as long as you have it. Typically, the DDS will require your insurance provider to send the form to them before they reinstate or renew your license. If the policy lapses for any reason, your license may be automatically suspended or revoked.
This certificate is often required for three years from the date of conviction. However, the duration you must keep it can vary depending on the specifics of your situation. It will rarely be less than six months, since that is often the minimum coverage time companies offer.
Increased Premium
The most significant impact of an SR-22 is higher insurance rates. You may be able to obtain an SR-22 certificate from your current insurance provider. However, you may notice your premiums dramatically increase. This is because the forms often indicate higher risk drivers. If your current car insurance provider does not provide this certification, you may need to shop around.
Upfront Premium
Further, if you have an SR-22A, you are required to pay the full six-month premium upfront to ensure you are covered for the whole duration of that coverage period. This upfront requirement and higher premiums may present challenges for those who require the certification.
Non-Owner Policies
If you are required to have an SR-22 to keep your license but do not have your own vehicle, you may elect to get a non-owner liability policy that can still provide the certificate and provide liability coverage for the vehicle you borrow.
Car Accidents with SR-22
If you are involved in a car accident while carrying an SR-22 in Georgia, you may face harsher consequences than a standard driver. In Georgia, an accident could lead to extended SR-22 filing requirements, additional license suspension periods, reinstatement fees, and significantly higher insurance rates.
You could also risk having your driving privileges revoked entirely if you are found at fault. Because Georgia requires drivers with an SR-22 to maintain continuous coverage for three years, any lapse or further violations can reset the filing period or worsen your legal situation. Driving safely and complying with all insurance and court mandates is critical.
Contact the Columbus Car Acciden Lawyers at Mark Casto Personal Injury Law Firm Today
If you were injured in an accident in Columbus, GA, and need legal help, contact our Columbus car accident lawyers at Mark Casto Personal Injury Law Firm to schedule a free case review today.
Mark Casto Personal Injury Law Firm
233 12th St #808
Columbus, GA 31901
(706) 940-4030
