Getting the right SR-22 rates in Ohio can be an extremely valuable tool for many drivers across the state, but it can also be one of the least-known auto insurance coverages. While it is not necessarily a positive thing to need SR22 coverage, it is an important program that allows thousands of Americans every year to regain their driving privileges after an irresponsible or dangerous incident. Although it is more of just a simple form than a fully developed auto insurance policy, there is still quite a lot that goes into the program in Ohio and across most of the United States.

Establishing who needs SR22 insurance coverage in Ohio can be challenging, but by utilizing all of the available resources provided by the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) and more, drivers can figure out their coverage needs. Once you have determined to go forward with getting an SR22 insurance policy, you can do so quickly and efficiently. This article will help Ohio drivers to come to this decision, as well as inform them of the pros and cons of doing so.


What is Ohio SR22 insurance?

Before discussing how to get SR22 insurance in Ohio, it is first important to understand what the coverage consists of. Obtainable through a number of different auto insurance providers across the state of Ohio and distributed by the Ohio BMV, this SR22 form is designed to help drivers whose driving privileges have been suspended for a number of different reasons outlined below. Also utilized in many other states, it is often used in the event that someone is visiting Ohio and has an incident or if an Ohio resident has an incident in another state.

Sometimes referred to as an SR-22 financial liability form, this coverage represents a second chance for Ohio motorists who wish to continue driving despite their license suspension. By working with a private insurance company to get your SR22 form filled out and submitted to the Ohio BMV, only a small amount of effort is required of you as an Ohio applicant. You should only have to pay between $15 and $30 for your monthly payments while you are receiving this coverage, but that amount could be higher depending on the insurer that you choose to utilize and the severity of your past driving incident(s).

Who needs SR22 insurance in Ohio?

You should file an SR22 form in Ohio if your driver’s license has been suspended and you would like to continue driving in the state. Some of the many different driving incidents that could lead to this suspension include the following:

  • Insurance-related incidents, like getting in a wreck in an uninsured vehicle or driving without your own auto insurance
  • Drug-related incidents, such as being convicted of a DWI, DUI or being charged with possession of an illicit substance in your vehicle
  • Ticketing incidents, including receiving multiple unanswered speeding tickets or too many traffic violations in a short timespan
  • Additional incidents, like refusing to submit to an alcohol test, driving irresponsibly or failing to stop after a vehicle collision or other such accident

Ohio drivers who have been suspended for these reasons can benefit from this special insurance form coverage.

Reinstating Driving Privileges With SR22 in Ohio

Those looking to get SR-22 coverage in Ohio are most likely to do so in order to reinstate a driver’s license suspension as well as to maintain their existing auto insurance coverage. Driving without an active drivers license can be risky, especially if you are pulled over or get into an accident without it. Additionally, having a lapse in auto insurance can bring with it hefty fines that can easily be avoided by reinstating your driving privileges.

In Ohio, you will receive a temporary driver’s license upon receiving your SR-22 liability coverage, which will last as long as you need to pay your monthly premiums. SR22 will then last on this temporary license for around 12 months as you continue to pay a monthly premium to your insurer.

However, if you are to commit further driving incidents while under this coverage, then it could result in further suspension penalties, fees and even revoking all driving privileges for multiple years. It is crucial to have discretion when under this special liability coverage in order to ensure that you are driving legally and safely in Ohio.

How to Get SR22 Insurance in Ohio

When you are ready to get SR22 insurance quotes in Ohio, it is very important to be aware of all of your options. There are many potential insurance companies in the state that offer to assist you in filing your liability forms and submitting them to the Ohio BMV but they will generally all have varying rates. Taking the time to find the insurer that gives the best, most comprehensive service for the lowest rate is highly recommended so that you can take care of the process without needless headaches.

Once you have worked with the right insurer to submit your SR-22 form, it may take up to 72 hours to process electronically. Then, you should receive your temporary license, and be able to start paying your monthly premiums to work towards ending your suspension.

Penalties for Not Filing an SR22 Form in Ohio

Your OH SR22 insurance is an extremely important aspect in getting your driver’s license reinstated. But if you choose not to get it and continue to operate a vehicle illegally, then you could be at risk for some serious consequences. Many of the most serious penalties for this include:

  • Further driver’s license and registration suspensions.
  • Large fines of up to thousands of dollars.
  • Your car being repossessed.
  • Arrest, if your incident warrants it.

Additionally, you are required to file a form with the Ohio BMV if your incident occurred in the state but you have since relocated to a different state. By making sure that your SR-22 in Ohio is up-to-date, paid and untarnished by repeat offenses, you can continue to drive despite a poor driving history.

Last updated on Wednesday, October 14 2020.