WA SR 22 Insurance Requirement after DUI License Suspension

SR 22 InsuranceWA SR 22 insurance is required if your driver’s license is suspended for a major moving violation and you wish to reinstate your driving privileges. This insurance document is required by the Washington State Department of Licensing to prove “financial responsibility.”

Major moving violations include:

  • Vehicular Assault
  • Driving with a Suspended License
  • Hit and Run

After your license suspension is served, you must purchase SR-22 auto insurance before your driver’s license can be reinstated. Compared to standard auto liability insurance, this insurance is typically much more expensive as it is considered “high risk” coverage. Your current auto insurance company may offer this type of coverage.

SR-22 coverage is normally required for 36 consecutive months. If the policy is not renewed in a timely manner (at least 15 days before expiration), the insurance company is required to notify the WA State Department of Licensing, who in turn will suspend the driver’s license.

Unfortunately, you can’t avoid paying for SR22 insurance by waiting 36 months to reinstate your driver’s license. To avoid paying for SR-22 insurance, you can post a bond of $60,000 with a surety bond company licensed in Washington or deposit $60,000 with the WA State Treasure. However, neither of these options are practical for the majority of consumers.

High risk insurance is one of several consequences that can result from a DUI conviction. If you have been arrested for a DUI or another offense that could result in a license suspension, Beckwith DUI Law is available to discuss your defense options.

We have offices in Seattle and Tacoma, and we defend clients in the courts of King County, Pierce County, Kitsap County and Thurston County. Call us today for a free consultation.