The SR-22 Filing Fee, Explained
Key takeaways
- Insurers typically charge $15 to $50 to file an SR-22.
- Some charge it once, and others charge it at each renewal.
- The state's reinstatement fee is separate and paid to the state.
Two different fees get lumped together as "SR-22 fees." Knowing which is which helps you budget.
Fee 1: The insurer's filing fee
Your insurance company charges this to prepare and submit the certificate. It's commonly $15 to $50. Ask whether it applies once or again at every renewal.
Fee 2: The state's reinstatement fee
You pay this one to the DMV or licensing agency to restore your license. It varies widely, from tens of dollars to several hundred, and it's often higher after alcohol offenses.
Fees that aren't legitimate
Be wary of anyone selling a "standalone SR-22" with no policy behind it, or charging large "processing" fees on top of the premium. An SR-22 is meaningless without an actual insurance policy.
Fee questions
Do I pay a new fee if I switch insurers?
Usually, yes. The new insurer files its own SR-22.