Can You Pay SR22 Insurance in Installments?

Here’s What to Expect

One of the most common questions people ask is:
“Do I have to pay the full SR22 insurance cost upfront, or can I make monthly payments?”

Here’s the good news: Yes, in many cases, you can pay SR22 insurance in installments. But it’s not always guaranteed — and there are a few important things to know before you start shopping around.

🚗 What Is SR22 Insurance?

First, SR22 isn’t actually a type of insurance. It’s a form that your insurance company files with your state’s DMV to confirm you’re carrying the minimum liability coverage required by law.

You might need an SR22 if you’ve had:

• A DUI or DWI
• Driving without insurance
• Reckless driving charges
• Your license suspended or revoked

Once the SR22 is filed, if your policy lapses, your insurer must notify the DMV — which could result in another license suspension. It’s a big deal.

💸 Can You Pay for SR22 Insurance Monthly?

Yes, in many cases you can pay your SR22 insurance in monthly installments. But it depends on your driving history, credit score, and the insurance company.

Some insurers may require you to pay for 6 or 12 months up front, especially if you’ve had prior coverage lapses or poor credit. Others will work with you on a monthly basis with a down payment.

💡 According to The Zebra’s 2024 Auto Insurance Report, drivers who pay their premiums in full save an average of 10–12% annually over those who pay monthly.
[Source]

🧠 Why Do Some Insurers Require Full Payment?

It comes down to risk. If you’ve had a recent DUI, missed payments in the past, or your credit score is low, insurers may want to protect themselves by requiring full payment upfront.

📊 Consumer Reports found that drivers with poor credit pay an average of 91% more for auto insurance — and are more likely to face stricter payment terms.
[Source]

✅ Insurers That Offer SR22 Monthly Payment Plans

While not all companies offer flexible billing, these insurers are known for working with SR22 drivers and offering installment options:

• Dairyland Insurance – Monthly payments and high-risk flexibility
• The General – Low down payments and pay-as-you-go plans
• Bristol West – Part of Farmers; offers payment options for high-risk drivers
• Acceptance Insurance – Low upfront cost, flexible installment plans

💡 ValuePenguin reports the average cost of SR22 insurance after a DUI is $2,580/year — meaning installment plans can help spread that out significantly.
[Source]

⚖️ Monthly vs. Upfront: Pros and Cons

💳 Monthly Payments	💵 Full Payment Upfront
Easier to budget month-to-month	May qualify for discounts (5–10%)
Lower initial cost	No monthly fees
Available with many high-risk insurers	Reduces risk of cancellation
May come with small billing fees	Requires more money upfront

🔍 What Affects Whether You Qualify for Monthly SR22 Payments?

💡 Tips to Get Monthly SR22 Coverage

• Compare multiple insurers — prices and terms vary wildly
• Set up autopay to avoid lapses
• Offer a higher down payment to unlock installment options
• Take a defensive driving course for possible discounts
• Request a non-owner policy if you don’t own a car

🚨 What Happens If You Miss a Monthly Payment?

This is where things get serious. If your SR22 policy lapses due to missed payment, your insurer files an SR26 form with the DMV — which can result in immediate license suspension.

📉 The Insurance Information Institute reports that among high-risk drivers, missed payments and policy cancellations are a leading cause of license re-suspension.
[Source]

🧾 Final Thoughts: Yes, You Can Pay SR22 Monthly — But Stay On Top of It

Most drivers can pay SR22 insurance in installments, but not everyone will qualify right away. It depends on your record, your credit, and the insurer you choose.

Whether you pay in full or monthly, the most important thing is to stay insured continuously and avoid any policy lapses. Compare your options, ask about payment flexibility, and find a plan that works for you.

🙋 FAQs: Paying SR22 Insurance in Installments

Q: Can I get SR22 insurance with no down payment?
Rarely. Most insurers require at least 15–30% of the total policy up front.

Q: Are monthly payments more expensive in the long run?
Yes — typically due to small monthly fees and loss of pay-in-full discounts.

Q: What happens if I miss a monthly payment?
Your policy may cancel and the insurer will file an SR26 with the DMV — triggering license suspension.

Q: Can I switch insurers while on an SR22 plan?
Yes — just make sure the new insurer files your SR22 immediately and there’s no gap in coverage.

Q: Will paying in full lower my SR22 insurance cost?
Usually. Many insurers offer a 5–10% discount for upfront payment.

Need help finding an affordable SR22 insurance quote with monthly payments? Drop a comment below or contact a licensed agent to explore your options. 🚗