Which Insurance Companies Charge the MOST for SR22
While most people want to know the cheapest SR-22 companies, a few of us with too much time on our hands want to know which are the most expensive, so here goes.
Needing an SR-22 filing already means you’re considered a high-risk driver — but depending on the company you go with, the cost of your insurance can vary a lot. While some insurers are known for being more flexible with high-risk drivers, others charge much higher premiums or even refuse coverage altogether.
In this guide, you’ll see how different insurance companies price SR-22 coverage, which ones tend to be the most expensive, and what to do if you’re getting priced out of the market. The numbers don’t lie — and they’re not pretty.
What Is SR-22 Insurance?
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An SR-22 is a certificate that your insurance company files with your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles to prove you carry the required amount of liability coverage. It’s not a separate type of insurance policy — it’s a form that’s added to your existing or new auto policy.
Most drivers are required to file an SR-22 after:
- A DUI or DWI conviction
- Driving without insurance
- Reckless driving
- Multiple traffic violations
- Being involved in an accident while uninsured
Once you’re required to carry an SR-22, your status as a high-risk driver typically leads to higher premiums.
Which Insurance Companies Charge the Most for SR-22?
While rates vary based on your location, age, and driving history, some national and regional companies are consistently reported to charge higher-than-average rates for drivers needing an SR-22.
Here are some of the companies known for higher SR-22 premiums. In my experience, some companies just aren’t built to work with high-risk drivers, and they make sure you feel it in your premium.
1. GEICO
GEICO is widely available and does offer SR-22 filings in most states. However, they are known to significantly raise rates for drivers with DUI or reckless driving violations.
- Average SR-22 premium increase: 75–120% after DUI
- May deny coverage for multiple violations
- Not ideal for drivers with more than one offense or lapse in coverage
2. Allstate
Allstate tends to be on the higher side for high-risk drivers and may require policyholders to go through a local agent to obtain SR-22 filing services.
- Known for stricter underwriting
- Often does not offer non-owner SR-22 policies
- Not available in all states for SR-22 filings
3. State Farm
State Farm does offer SR-22 filings, but they are typically reserved for existing customers in good standing. Their rates for new high-risk customers can be among the highest in the industry.
- Less flexible with new applicants needing SR-22
- Premiums can be 2–3x higher for DUI cases
- Denials are common for second-time offenders
4. Farmers Insurance
Farmers may file SR-22 forms but typically charges higher premiums for drivers with serious violations. Their rates can be especially steep for younger drivers or those with lapses in coverage.
- Average SR-22 premium: $220–$350/month
- May require payment in full for first-term policies
- Some policyholders report mandatory agent servicing
5. USAA (For Military Members Only)
USAA is highly rated for customer service and affordability, but it is more conservative when it comes to high-risk policies. It offers SR-22 filings in limited circumstances and often with much higher rates.
- Only available to active or former military and their families
- SR-22 often only offered if you’re already an existing customer
- High surcharges for DUIs and suspensions
Why These Companies Charge More
There are a few reasons some carriers charge more for SR-22 coverage:
- Underwriting guidelines: Some companies penalize specific violations more heavily (e.g., DUI vs. reckless driving).
- State-specific risk pools: In some states, insurers factor in higher local liability or fraud risk.
- Company appetite: Certain insurers avoid high-risk segments to protect their loss ratios.
- Policy bundling restrictions: Some companies require full coverage, adding to the overall cost.
Average SR-22 Cost Comparison
Here’s a rough comparison of monthly rates for SR-22 coverage from several top insurers:
| Company | Estimated Monthly Rate (After SR-22) |
|---|---|
| GEICO | $220–$340 |
| Allstate | $240–$380 |
| State Farm | $250–$400 |
| Farmers | $230–$350 |
| USAA | $270–$420 (limited availability) |
Note: These are average estimates based on national data and may vary depending on your age, location, vehicle type, and driving record.
What to Do If You’re Getting High SR-22 Quotes
If you’re finding that major insurers are quoting you sky-high rates, here are a few things you can try:
1. Look into Non-Standard Insurers
Companies like The General, Dairyland, and Acceptance Insurance specialize in high-risk policies and often provide better rates for SR-22 drivers.
2. Ask About Non-Owner SR-22 Policies
If you don’t own a vehicle but need to reinstate your license, a non-owner policy is usually cheaper.
3. Shop Through a Broker
Independent insurance brokers can get quotes from multiple companies — including regional providers that may offer better rates.
4. Compare Every 6–12 Months
After a year of clean driving, your rates may start to come down. Don’t stick with an expensive policy if your record is improving.
Final Thoughts
Some insurance companies are simply not geared toward serving high-risk drivers — and that’s reflected in how much they charge for SR-22 coverage. If you’re being quoted high premiums from companies like State Farm, GEICO, or Allstate, it’s worth exploring specialty insurers, using a broker, or switching to a non-owner policy if you’re eligible.
Getting SR-22 coverage doesn’t mean you’re out of options — it just means you have to shop smarter and know which insurers to avoid if you’re trying to save.
