If your driver’s license was suspended in Virginia, you’ve probably heard about “SR-22” or “FR-44” insurance.
Both are proof of financial responsibility required by the Virginia DMV before your license can be reinstated — but they serve different purposes and come with different rules.
Here’s what every Virginia driver needs to know about SR-22 and FR-44 certificates, how to file them, and how long you must keep them.
A practical guide from Cardon Law. This is general information, not legal advice. If you’ve been ordered to carry SR-22 or FR-44 insurance, speak with an experienced Virginia traffic lawyer to ensure full compliance and avoid additional suspension time.
1) What Is SR-22 Insurance in Virginia?
An SR-22 is not an insurance policy itself — it’s a form filed by your insurer with the Virginia DMV proving that you carry the state’s minimum liability insurance coverage.
It’s required under Virginia Code § 46.2-316 when a driver’s license or registration has been suspended or revoked for certain offenses, including:
- Driving without insurance
- License suspension for unpaid judgments or accidents
- Failure to pay court fines or costs
- Some reckless driving or point-related suspensions
Minimum Coverage Required for SR-22
Virginia’s minimum liability limits under § 46.2-472 are currently:
- $30,000 for injury or death of one person
- $60,000 for injury or death of two or more persons
- $20,000 for property damage
Your insurer electronically files the SR-22 with the DMV, confirming that you have at least those coverage amounts.
How Long You Must Maintain SR-22
Most drivers must carry SR-22 coverage for three years from the date of reinstatement.
If your policy lapses or is canceled, your insurer notifies the DMV immediately, and your license is re-suspended until you file a new SR-22.
2) What Is FR-44 Insurance?
The FR-44 is Virginia’s stricter version of the SR-22 — required after more serious driving offenses, primarily DUI, DWI, or driving on a revoked license related to alcohol.
Under Virginia Code § 46.2-472.1, anyone convicted of:
- DUI / DWI under § 18.2-266, or
- Driving after license revocation for DUI under § 46.2-391
must file an FR-44 certificate before the DMV will reinstate driving privileges.
Coverage Requirements for FR-44
FR-44 coverage doubles the minimum limits required for SR-22:
- $60,000 for injury or death of one person
- $120,000 for injury or death of two or more persons
- $40,000 for property damage
The FR-44 requirement typically lasts three years but may be longer for multiple DUIs or related convictions.
3) How to File SR-22 or FR-44 in Virginia
Step 1: Contact a Licensed Virginia Insurer
Not every insurance company offers SR-22 or FR-44 filings.
Ask your provider if they can electronically submit the form to the Virginia DMV.
If not, shop around — some insurers specialize in these filings.
Step 2: Pay the Required Fees
In addition to your insurance premium, you’ll pay:
- A DMV reinstatement fee (usually $145–$220, depending on your case)
- Any court fines or costs related to the suspension
Step 3: Maintain Continuous Coverage
You must keep the policy active for the entire filing period.
If coverage lapses, the DMV will suspend your license again under § 46.2-316(B).
4) Common Reasons SR-22 or FR-44 Is Required
- DUI or DWI convictions
- Driving on suspended or revoked license
- Reckless driving (serious cases)
- Failure to pay court fines or judgments
- Failure to provide proof of insurance after an accident
- Habitual offender reinstatement
5) Penalties for Failing to Maintain SR-22 or FR-44
If your policy is canceled or lapses before the required period ends:
- Your insurer must notify the DMV (known as “filing an SR-26”).
- The DMV will immediately suspend your driving privilege.
- You’ll owe new reinstatement fees, and the SR-22/FR-44 clock resets.
Driving during that suspension can lead to new criminal charges under § 46.2-301 for Driving on a Suspended License.
6) How to Avoid SR-22/FR-44 Problems
✅ Keep your address updated with the DMV so you receive all notices.
✅ Set up auto-pay for your insurance premium.
✅ Verify your reinstatement date on the DMV Reinstatement Portal.
✅ Work with a Virginia DUI lawyer to ensure the court and DMV timelines align.
FAQ
What’s the difference between SR-22 and FR-44?
Both are proof-of-insurance certificates. The FR-44 is required after DUI-related offenses and doubles the minimum coverage required by law.
How long do I need to keep SR-22 or FR-44 insurance?
Typically three years from the date your license is reinstated, but longer for multiple offenses or alcohol-related suspensions.
Can I switch insurance companies during an SR-22 or FR-44 period?
Yes, but your new insurer must file the form before canceling the old one — or your license will be suspended again.
What if I move out of Virginia?
You’ll still need to maintain an SR-22 or FR-44 through a Virginia-licensed insurer until your term ends unless your new state accepts the filing transfer.
Is SR-22 or FR-44 expensive?
The filing fee itself is small (around $25), but your insurance premium can increase substantially — sometimes doubling after a DUI.
Can a lawyer help me remove the SR-22/FR-44 requirement early?
Possibly. In limited cases, your attorney can petition the DMV or court to review eligibility, especially if the suspension was imposed in error or prematurely extended.
Need Help With SR-22 or FR-44 Requirements in Virginia?
Cardon Law helps drivers throughout Virginia Beach, Norfolk, and Hampton Roads reinstate their licenses, meet SR-22 or FR-44 filing requirements, and handle related DUI or suspended license charges.
📞 Free Consultation: (757) 306-9060
📱 24/7 Direct to David A. Cardon: (757) 620-3283
