Cheapest SR-22 InsuranceMontanaCheapest SR-22 Car Insurance in Montana (2023)
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By , Content Director
Updated: Oct 26, 2023
Progressive is the most cost-effective choice for full coverage SR-22 insurance in Montana at $520 per year. State Farm is the cheapest for minimum coverage SR-22 at $188 per year. State Farm offers the most competitively priced SR-22 car insurance for drivers who don't own a car at $274 per year, followed by Progressive at $393 per year.
In Montana, having a major driving offense on your record necessitates filing an SR-22. While the SR-22 form itself does not directly impact insurance rates, most violations requiring an SR-22 will result in significant premium increases. Montana has affordable car insurance options to suit your needs regardless of car ownership status.
Cheapest SR-22 InsuranceMontanaCheapest Companies for SR-22 Car Insurance in Montana
Cheapest Companies for SR-22 Car Insurance in Montana
The top two most affordable providers of minimum coverage SR-22 auto insurance in Montana for drivers with DUIs on their records are:
- State Farm: $188 per year
- Progressive: $205 per year
The cheapest full coverage SR-22 policies in Montana are offered by:
- Progressive: $520 per year
- State Farm: $689 per year
Auto insurance premiums typically increase significantly following a driving offense because insurance companies perceive you as riskier to insure with a greater likelihood of filing claims. Comparing rates can help you find affordable insurance. When seeking low-cost SR-22 car insurance options in Montana, consider the following top options, with annual rates ranging from $188 to $827.
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What Is SR-22 in Montana?
Certain driving violations necessitate obtaining an SR-22, which is proof of financial responsibility. While specific regulations may differ by state, some situations typically require an SR-22 filing, including:
- DUI, DWI or other serious driving offenses
- Multiple driving violations within a short period
- Driving without insurance
- Being in an accident without adequate insurance coverage
- Restoring a suspended or revoked license
Montana drivers must maintain an SR-22 on file for one to five years. The duration can vary based on the seriousness of the offense, and repeated infractions may also lead to longer filing periods.
Your auto insurance provider is legally required to submit the SR-22 form to Montana’s DMV on your behalf. If you need help understanding SR-22 car insurance, you can rely on MoneyGeek for guidance.
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Once you have fulfilled the financial responsibility requirements in Montana, your insurance company must submit a Financial Responsibility Cancellation Form or an SR-26. This confirms that you have fulfilled the necessary requirements and are no longer obligated to maintain the specific financial responsibility filing, like an SR-22.
Cheapest Companies for Non-Owner SR-22 Car Insurance in Montana
The following insurers offer the most affordable SR-22 non-owner car insurance in Montana:
- State Farm: $274 per year
- Progressive: $393 per year
USAA is the most affordable choice for military-affiliated drivers, charging $182 annually.
Non-owner drivers might be required to obtain an SR-22 if their license was suspended or revoked or if they were convicted of a DUI or other significant traffic violation. Non-owner car insurance can assist in reinstating your license and ensuring legal compliance. Our thorough comparison of rates from various non-owner SR-22 car insurance providers in Montana has identified the most budget-friendly alternatives, with premiums ranging from $274 to $825 per year.
WHAT IS NON-OWNER CAR INSURANCE?
Non-owner car insurance covers bodily injuries and property damage caused to third parties, excluding damages to your vehicle or injuries sustained by you or your passengers. Generally, non-owner liability insurance is more cost-effective compared to standard auto insurance. You may need this type of insurance if you frequently rent cars, drive for a ridesharing company or have a DUI on your record. MoneyGeek evaluated providers’ rates to help you find the most affordable non-owner car insurance in Montana.
Average Cost of SR-22 Car Insurance in Montana
If you have a DUI on your driving record, expect your annual SR-22 insurance rates to cost around $488 for minimum coverage or $1,588 for full coverage. It's crucial to note that even minor offenses — like speeding or being at fault in an accident — may require you to file an SR-22. Having a record of driving violations can also lead to an increase in your car insurance premium.
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It is essential to compare insurance rates annually or during the renewal of your SR-22 coverage to ensure you’re still getting the cheapest SR-22 rates in Montana. You could save up to hundreds of dollars annually by staying proactive and keeping your insurance rates in check.
How SR-22 Affects Car Insurance Rates in Montana
Montana drivers who are required to file an SR-22 should expect an average premium increase of $170. However, various factors can influence premium changes, including the severity of the offense, chosen coverage levels and driving history.
Filing an SR-22 may be necessary for various reasons, including driving without sufficient insurance, failing to pay court-ordered child support, hardship licenses, DUI/DWI charges and multiple traffic violations.
Car Insurance Rate Comparison Based on Driving Records in Montana
Clean Driving Record
Annual Premium for Minimum Coverage
$318
After a DUI
Annual Premium for Minimum Coverage
$488Car insurance premiums after a DUI are on average: :$170 more
This is 53% more expensive.
Other Effects of SR-22 on Car Insurance in Montana
In addition to spending more on insurance coverage, you’ll face various potential repercussions after filing an SR-22 in Montana. Below are some consequences following the submission of this form.
1
Limited number of insurance options
When you have an SR-22, insurance companies typically categorize you as a high-risk driver, limiting your coverage options. Fewer companies are willing to provide insurance compared to drivers with clean driving records.
2
Possible policy cancellation
If you commit a violation that necessitates an SR-22 filing, your current insurance provider can cancel the remaining duration of your policy.
3
Length of required filing
In Montana, holding an SR-22 for at least 36 months is required. But the duration could be extended up to five years if there was a coverage gap or if you were engaged in a serious offense like being responsible for a fatal accident. Make sure to keep these timeframes in mind to ensure compliance with the SR-22 requirements.
4
Higher liability coverage limits
Obtaining an SR-22 would necessitate increasing your liability coverage limits in some states. But that isn’t the case in Montana. The state law still requires the following minimum liability coverage limits:
- $25,000 inbodily injury liability per person
- $50,000 in bodily injury liability per accident
- $20,000 in property damage liability per person
5
Filing fees
Some states also require you to pay for the filing of an SR-22, which is usually a one-time fee ranging from $15 to $50.
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How to Get SR-22 Insurance in Montana
After a driving violation, we advise taking these steps to obtain sufficient car insurance:
- Search for an insurance provider catering to drivers with violations on their records.
- Buy an insurance policy that adheres to the minimum liability requirements set by Montana.
- Ask your insurer to file an SR-22 form on your behalf, which acts as proof of financial responsibility.
- Make sure to pay any applicable fees and keep your SR-22 form current.
By following these steps, you can demonstrate your commitment to taking responsibility for your driving history and ensuring that you have adequate insurance coverage.
MONTANA LICENSE REINSTATEMENT FEE
The cost of reinstating your license after an SR-22 requirement depends on the number of suspensions you've incurred. The license reinstatement fee in Montana after an SR-22 is $200. Remember that fees are subject to change, so we highly recommend consulting your local DMV for the latest information.
How to Get Cheaper Car Insurance in Montana After a DUI
After being charged with a DUI, you may be required to pay higher insurance costs as providers will perceive you as riskier to cover. However, there are ways to find more affordable car insurance options. By obtaining quotes from different providers and meeting specific criteria, such as completing an accredited alcohol education program, you can secure more reasonable SR-22 car insurance rates. Although your premiums may still be higher than before the conviction, having car insurance remains crucial to protect yourself and others.
Compare quotes immediately
Insurance companies have distinct underwriting criteria and risk assessments, leading to a wide range of premiums. By obtaining quotes from multiple providers and carefully examining their coverage options, you can save money by selecting the cheapest policy that matches your coverage needs.
Complete DUI classes or programs
Drivers with a DUI may need to complete driver's education programs to reinstate their licenses. These programs offer valuable knowledge and techniques to prevent future instances of drunk driving, enabling you to enhance your driving skills and become a safer driver. By participating in these courses, you can demonstrate your dedication to improving your driving habits and enjoy the benefits of reduced insurance premiums.
Look for discounts
Certain auto insurance providers offer discounts to policyholders who meet specific criteria, such as completing a defensive driving course, installing a vehicle tracking device or maintaining a clean driving record. Contact your provider directly to find out if you qualify for any discounts and to explore ways to lower your insurance premiums.
Practice safe driving
Consistently adhering to traffic laws and avoiding further traffic violations, such as speeding or reckless driving, demonstrates to insurance companies that you’re a responsible and low-risk driver. Safe driving is crucial in rebuilding your record and showing insurers your commitment to trustworthy behavior on the road. This could also result in lower insurance rates.
Shop rates over time
Make it a habit to review your car insurance policy periodically, even if you have already secured an affordable provider. By periodically shopping around, you can stay informed about potential opportunities for a better deal. You may also qualify for lower rates as you demonstrate responsible driving behavior and maintain a clean track record.
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High-risk drivers with a history of DUI or at-fault accidents may consider purchasing non-standard auto insurance . Although it often comes with higher premiums than standard insurance, it provides essential coverage for individuals facing challenges with purchasing insurance from traditional providers..
Frequently Asked Questions About SR-22 Insurance in Montana
Below are MoneyGeek’s answers to some commonly asked questions about SR-22 car insurance in Montana.
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sources
- Montana Department of Justice — Motor Vehicle Division. "Probationary Driver License Information." Accessed June 7, 2023.