In order to understand SR-22 rates in Wisconsin, it is first important to know what this type of insurance is and why it may be required. Commonly referred to as “high risk” insurance, it is generally required after a motorist’s driver’s license is suspended for a number of moving violation and insurance violation convictions. It is a way for the state of Wisconsin to ensure that you are meeting the minimum liability insurance requirements for the state. That being said, if there is a lapse in or cancellation of your policy, there will be additional consequences.

An SR22 form must be filed by an insurance provider that is authorized to do business within the state. Therefore, it is important to know how to obtain insurance quotes and ultimately, how to ensure this form is filed. To learn more about SR22 requirements in Wisconsin, review the information that has been provided within the sections below.


What is Wisconsin SR22 Insurance?

While SR-22 rates are commonly higher than general liability insurance, this form of insurance does not offer any additional coverage. High-risk insurance simply involves a form that an auto insurer must submit to the Washington Department of Transportation (WisDOT). It is simply an addition to your insurance policy.

An SR22 form must be submitted to WisDOT, when required, before you will be able to reinstate your driver’s license after a qualifying conviction. In fact, you will not be eligible for a new license until your driving record has been updated.

An insurer has the option of submitting this proof of financial responsibility by mail, through an electronic file or by providing you with the completed form. If electronically filed, your driver record is generally updated within one to two business days. If mailed, it will take longer. If you are provided with the completed form, it is highly recommended that you provide the form to your local WisDOT office immediately.

Your Wisconsin SR22 policy must still meet the minimum liability insurance that is required within the state. Minimum liability insurance includes at least $25,000 and $50,000 towards personal injury or death as well as $10,000 in property damage.

Who Needs SR22 Insurance in Wisconsin?

Understanding who needs SR22 insurance in Wisconsin can better prepare you if your license is suspended or if you need to apply for an occupational license. In Wisconsin, this form of insurance is required:

  • To obtain an occupational driver’s license, reinstate a driver’s license after driving privileges have been revoked or reinstate a vehicle’s registration.
  • To reinstate after suspension, if the suspension is a damage judgment or a suspension under the uninsured motorist law.
  • For drivers under the age of 18, in lieu of having a sponsor.

SR22 insurance will be required if you are caught violating Wisconsin insurance laws. In other words, if you are caught driving a vehicle without insurance or do not have proof of insurance when asked. An SR22 form will not be required if you are reinstating a driver’s license with a revocation due to:

  • Non-compliance with an assessment interview.
  • Non-compliance with a driver safety plan.
  • A conviction for a first offense of operating while intoxicated.

Reinstating Driving Privileges with SR22 in Wisconsin

If an SR22 form is required for the reinstatement of your Wisconsin driver’s license, this step must be completed before a new license will be issued. Not only must the form be filed by your insurer, but it must be processed, and your driving record must be updated before you can request a reinstatement. Additionally, you will need to satisfy all other reinstatement requirements that you may have, such as court fees and reinstatement fees.

How to Get SR22 Insurance in Wisconsin

You can receive SR22 insurance quotes from any automotive insurance agency that is licensed within Wisconsin. SR-22 rates will be determined by the insurance agency, so you have the ability to shop. However, should you ever change your insurance agency after your insurance form has been filed to WinDOT, it is important that your new insurer file another form immediately.

SR22 insurance agencies are legally required to report any changes to your policy, such as a lapse in coverage or the cancellation of your insurance policy, to WisDOT immediately. If a new form is not filed by your new insurer, or if there is a period that you do not have your required high-risk insurance policy, your driver’s license may be suspended again. If this happens, you will be required to reestablish your insurance as well as pay a reinstatement fee before a new license may be issued to you.

Penalties for Not Filing an SR22 Form in Wisconsin

If an SR22 form is required, it is important to notify your insurance company immediately and ensure that a form is filed to WisDOT. Failing to file will result in additional penalties, such as the denial of an occupational license or the inability to reinstate your driver’s license or vehicle registration.

SR-22 insurance must be maintained for three years beginning from the date you were eligible to reinstate your Wisconsin driver’s license. If your insurance is canceled during this three-year period or if there is a lapse in your policy, your driver’s license and vehicle registration may be suspended for a second time. You would then be required to reobtain proper insurance coverage as well as pay any reinstatement fees in order to reinstate your license again.

Last updated on Wednesday, October 14 2020.