South Dakota SR22 Insurance: What You Need to Know

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In South Dakota, SR22 insurance is a requirement for certain high-risk drivers to reinstate or maintain their driving privileges. While it’s often referred to as “SR22 insurance,” the SR-22 itself is not actually a type of insurance but rather a certificate of financial responsibility. This form is filed by your insurance company with the South Dakota Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to verify that you meet the state’s minimum auto insurance requirements.

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What is SR22 Insurance in South Dakota?

SR22 insurance is required in South Dakota for drivers deemed high-risk due to serious traffic violations. The SR-22 certificate serves as proof that you carry at least the minimum liability coverage mandated by the state. This form must be submitted to the DMV by your insurance provider and maintained for a period of three years.

If you let your SR22 policy lapse, your license, vehicle registration, and license plates can be immediately suspended.

Who Needs SR22 Insurance?

You may be required to obtain SR22 insurance in South Dakota for a number of reasons, including:

  • Driving without valid auto insurance
  • A DUI or DWI conviction
  • Vehicular homicide
  • Failure to pay a court-ordered judgment
  • Two convictions for reckless driving within one year
  • Accidents caused while uninsured
  • License revocation or suspension
  • Being under mandatory insurance supervision
  • Having three or more mandatory insurance violations

Types of SR22 Forms

There are three different types of SR22 certificates in South Dakota:

  1. Operator SR22
    For drivers who do not own a vehicle but need coverage when driving someone else’s car.
  2. Owner SR22
    For drivers who own and operate a vehicle and need the SR22 attached to that specific vehicle.
  3. Operator-Owner SR22
    Provides coverage for both owned and non-owned vehicles. Ideal if you drive multiple vehicles or borrow cars regularly.

Mandatory Minimum Coverage in South Dakota

To satisfy SR22 requirements, your auto insurance policy must include the following minimum liability coverage:

  • $25,000 for bodily injury per person
  • $50,000 for bodily injury per accident
  • $25,000 for property damage per accident

This means if you’re involved in an accident, your insurer will cover damages up to these limits. If the damage exceeds the coverage, you are personally responsible for the difference.

How to Get SR22 Insurance in South Dakota

If You Already Have Insurance:

Contact your insurance company and request they file an SR-22 certificate on your behalf. Most major insurers offer this service.

If You’re Uninsured:

You will need to purchase a new policy with a company that offers SR22 filings. Some insurers may charge a filing fee and may refuse coverage due to your high-risk status.

For Non-Owners:

If you do not own a car, you must first purchase a non-owner car insurance policy before the insurer can file the SR22 form.

Once filed, the SR22 can be processed electronically, often allowing you to get back on the road in just a few days.

SR22 Insurance Rates in South Dakota

The cost of SR22 insurance in South Dakota depends on a variety of factors, including:

  • Driving record
  • Age and gender
  • Vehicle type
  • Location
  • Credit score
  • Marital status

On average, drivers with a DUI conviction may pay around $1,848 annually, which is about 58% higher than rates for drivers with a clean record.

Example:

If your normal rate is $1,200/year, an SR22 requirement could push that to $1,800–$2,000 depending on your insurer.

Non-Owner SR22 Insurance

A non-owner SR22 policy is ideal for drivers who don’t own a car but still need to reinstate their license. It covers liability only, meaning it does not protect against physical damage to a vehicle but satisfies legal insurance requirements.

This is a more affordable option since it generally costs less than a full-coverage policy.

Tips for Finding the Best SR22 Policy

  • Compare multiple quotes: Use free online tools or contact local agents to compare rates.
  • Check policy terms: Pay attention to down payments, cancellation fees, and reinstatement terms.
  • Stick with reliable insurers: Many large insurers such as GEICO, Progressive, Allstate, Farmers, Liberty Mutual, and Travelers offer SR22 coverage.
  • Avoid lapses: Missing payments or canceling your policy could reset your 3-year SR22 requirement.
  • Keep proof in your vehicle: Always have your SR22 documentation accessible in case of an accident or police stop.

Get Insured Today

SR22Insurance.net and similar services help high-risk drivers in South Dakota find affordable SR22 coverage from trusted companies. Whether you’ve been overcharged in the past or are just starting the process, getting a free quote online is fast and easy.

👉 Get your FREE quote now at SR22Insurance.net
📞 Or call to set up your policy by phone.