In Washington state, you might be required to submit an SR-22 after engaging in a major traffic infraction like a DUI or reckless driving. Most traffic offenses that need an SR-22 will drastically raise your premiums. However, remember that your violation, not the SR-22 form, causes your premiums to increase. Washington drivers choose from a number of low-cost auto insurance policy options.
Cheapest SR-22 Car Insurance in Washington (2024)
State Farm is the cheapest insurer for Washington state drivers with SR-22 filings, and it also offers the lowest rates for those who don't own a vehicle. SR-22 insurance is often required for drivers with DUIs.
Mark Fitzpatrick
Head of P&C Insurance, MoneyGeek
Mark Fitzpatrick has analyzed the property and casualty insurance market for over five years, conducting original research and creating personalized content for every kind of buyer. Currently, he leads P&C insurance content production at MoneyGeek. Fitzpatrick has been quoted in several insurance-related publications, including [CNBC](https://www.cnbc.com/2020/04/15/cant-keep-up-with-insurance-premiums-heres-what-to-do.html), [NBC News](https://www.nbcnews.com/business/autos/flooded-cars-are-problem-their-owners-future-car-buyers-n1278493) and [Mashable](https://mashable.com/article/tesla-insurance-rates). Fitzpatrick earned a master’s degree in economics and international relations from Johns Hopkins University and a bachelor’s degree from Boston College. He is passionate about using his knowledge of economics and insurance to bring transparency around financial topics and help others feel confident in their money moves.
Mark Friedlander
Director, Corporate Communications, Insurance Information Institute
Mark Friedlander has over 30 years of experience in financial services and insurance. He is the Director of Corporate Communications at the [Insurance Information Institute (III)](https://www.iii.org/) — a New York-based nonprofit research and education organization focused on providing consumers with a better understanding of insurance — serving as a national insurance industry media spokesperson for broadcast, digital and print outlets. Before joining the III, Friedlander held senior communications roles at Main Street America Insurance, Arthur Andersen LLP and Prudential Financial. His recent contributions and appearances include The Washington Post, The New York Times, Bloomberg, CNN, Fox Weather, the Associated Press, Reuters, National Public Radio (NPR), NBC News, ABC News, CNBC and many more national and regional news outlets. Friedlander holds a bachelor's degree in journalism and public relations from the Ohio State University.
Jonathan Ramos
Content Editor
Jonathan Ramos is an editor committed to producing user-friendly and accessible financial content, particularly for those in younger generations. Previously, he worked as a fact-checker at The Daily Emerald, the University of Oregon newspaper. Jonathan's interest in the personal finance space stems from his desire to make a positive impact on the lives of others — he helps people make informed financial decisions by using his editing skills to make complex information more digestible.
Mark Fitzpatrick
Head of P&C Insurance, MoneyGeek
Mark Fitzpatrick has analyzed the property and casualty insurance market for over five years, conducting original research and creating personalized content for every kind of buyer. Currently, he leads P&C insurance content production at MoneyGeek. Fitzpatrick has been quoted in several insurance-related publications, including [CNBC](https://www.cnbc.com/2020/04/15/cant-keep-up-with-insurance-premiums-heres-what-to-do.html), [NBC News](https://www.nbcnews.com/business/autos/flooded-cars-are-problem-their-owners-future-car-buyers-n1278493) and [Mashable](https://mashable.com/article/tesla-insurance-rates). Fitzpatrick earned a master’s degree in economics and international relations from Johns Hopkins University and a bachelor’s degree from Boston College. He is passionate about using his knowledge of economics and insurance to bring transparency around financial topics and help others feel confident in their money moves.
Mark Friedlander
Director, Corporate Communications, Insurance Information Institute
Mark Friedlander has over 30 years of experience in financial services and insurance. He is the Director of Corporate Communications at the [Insurance Information Institute (III)](https://www.iii.org/) — a New York-based nonprofit research and education organization focused on providing consumers with a better understanding of insurance — serving as a national insurance industry media spokesperson for broadcast, digital and print outlets. Before joining the III, Friedlander held senior communications roles at Main Street America Insurance, Arthur Andersen LLP and Prudential Financial. His recent contributions and appearances include The Washington Post, The New York Times, Bloomberg, CNN, Fox Weather, the Associated Press, Reuters, National Public Radio (NPR), NBC News, ABC News, CNBC and many more national and regional news outlets. Friedlander holds a bachelor's degree in journalism and public relations from the Ohio State University.
Jonathan Ramos
Content Editor
Jonathan Ramos is an editor committed to producing user-friendly and accessible financial content, particularly for those in younger generations. Previously, he worked as a fact-checker at The Daily Emerald, the University of Oregon newspaper. Jonathan's interest in the personal finance space stems from his desire to make a positive impact on the lives of others — he helps people make informed financial decisions by using his editing skills to make complex information more digestible.
Updated: May 20, 2024
Advertising & Editorial Disclosure
Cheapest Companies for SR-22 Car Insurance in Washington
Why Trust MoneyGeek? Our team obtained data from the Washington Department of Labor and Regulation’s Division of Insurance and Quadrant Information Services to determine the most affordable SR-22 insurance companies for various driver profiles.
Cheapest Companies for SR-22 Car Insurance in Washington
The most affordable SR-22 auto insurance companies in Washington for drivers with DUIs are:
- State Farm: $462 per year
- Chubb: $563 per year
The cheapest full coverage SR-22 plans in Washington are carried by:
- State Farm: $962 per year
- American Family: $1,158 per year
After a driving infraction, your insurance prices may rise because of the increased risk you pose to insurance companies. Here are a few of the most affordable options for SR-22 auto insurance in Washington, with average annual premiums ranging from $462 to $1,933.
- 60 +
- 22-29
- 30-59
- Full Coverage
- Minimum Coverage
- Ticket
- Clean
- Accident
- DUI
State Farm | Annual Premium$462 | Monthly Premium$38 |
Chubb | Annual Premium$563 | Monthly Premium$47 |
Capital Insurance Group | Annual Premium$596 | Monthly Premium$50 |
GEICO | Annual Premium$645 | Monthly Premium$54 |
Travelers | Annual Premium$727 | Monthly Premium$61 |
Farmers | Annual Premium$730 | Monthly Premium$61 |
Progressive | Annual Premium$731 | Monthly Premium$61 |
American Family | Annual Premium$742 | Monthly Premium$62 |
Allstate | Annual Premium$775 | Monthly Premium$65 |
National General | Annual Premium$921 | Monthly Premium$77 |
Compare Auto Insurance Rates
Ensure you're getting the best rate for your auto insurance. Compare quotes from the top insurance companies.
What Is SR-22 in Washington?
If you break certain driving laws, you may have to file an SR-22, which serves as proof of financial responsibility. While specific requirements may vary by state, many circumstances in which you'll need an SR-22 are standard nationwide. Some common examples include:
- DUI or other serious traffic violations
- Several traffic infractions during a short amount of time
- Driving while uninsured
- Being involved in an accident without insurance
- Renewing a license that has been revoked or suspended
In Washington, you must keep your SR-22 on file for at least three years and update it 15 days before it expires. The duration of the SR-22 requirement in Washington can be extended if the driving offense committed was particularly severe or if it was committed multiple times.
Per Washington state law, your car insurance company must submit an SR-22 form to the Washington State Department of Licensing on your behalf. MoneyGeek offers in-depth explanations about SR-22 auto insurance.
After meeting the financial responsibility mandate in Washington, the task of submitting a Financial Responsibility Cancellation Form falls on your insurance provider. By submitting this form, you confirm that all requirements have been met and you no longer need to retain a particular financial responsibility document, such as an SR-22.
Cheapest Companies for Non-Owner SR-22 Car Insurance in Washington
The cheapest SR-22 non-owner car insurance policies in Washington are offered by:
- State Farm: $473 per year
- GEICO: $492 per year
USAA is a comparatively cost-effective option for those in Washington that are members of the military community, with annual rates averaging $399.
If a non-owner driver has had their license suspended or revoked because of a DUI or another significant traffic offense, they may be required to file an SR-22. Driving safely with non-owner auto insurance can help you reinstate your license.
We looked around for the cheapest SR-22 auto insurance for non-owners and found that costs average between $473 and $1,283 per year, as displayed in the table below.
- Clean
- Accident $1000-$1999 Prop Dmg
State Farm | Annual Premium$473 | Monthly Premium$39 |
GEICO | Annual Premium$492 | Monthly Premium$41 |
Travelers | Annual Premium$654 | Monthly Premium$54 |
Farmers | Annual Premium$1,003 | Monthly Premium$84 |
Nationwide | Annual Premium$1,037 | Monthly Premium$86 |
Non-owner car insurance covers property damage and bodily injury to third parties, making it a suitable option for those who do not own a vehicle, such as professional and rideshare drivers and those using rental cars. Non-owner auto insurance does not cover injuries to you or your passengers, nor does it provide coverage for damage to the vehicle itself. Non-owner liability insurance often costs less than regular car insurance. MoneyGeek researched the cheapest non-owner auto insurance plans in Washington to assist you in finding the best offers.
Average Cost of SR-22 Car Insurance in Washington
In Washington, the average cost of SR-22 insurance for drivers with DUIs is $881 for minimum coverage and $1,666 for full coverage. Filing this form will classify you as a higher-risk driver, which could result in increased car insurance costs.
- 60 +
- 22-29
- 30-59
- Full Coverage
- Minimum Coverage
DUI | Annual Premium$881 | Monthly Premium$73 |
Clean | Annual Premium$565 | Monthly Premium$47 |
At-Fault Accident | Annual Premium$857 | Monthly Premium$71 |
Ticket | Annual Premium$738 | Monthly Premium$62 |
We recommend comparing rates annually or at each renewal if you live in Washington and have an SR-22 policy. Continuously exploring your alternatives is essential for finding the lowest price and getting a fair bargain.
How SR-22 Affects Car Insurance Rates in Washington
Individuals in Washington required to submit an SR-22 can expect their insurance premiums to rise by around $297 per year. However, the severity of the violation, the level of coverage and your driving record can also affect your premiums.
You may need to file an SR-22 may arise for various reasons, such as driving without adequate insurance coverage, driving with a suspended license, non-payment of court-mandated child support, severe accidents, DUI convictions and reckless driving or committing certain repeated traffic violations.
Car Insurance Rate Comparison Based on Driving Records in Washington
Annual Premium for Minimum Coverage
$584Annual Premium for Minimum Coverage
$881This is 51% more expensive.
Other Effects of SR-22 on Car Insurance in Washington
Filing an SR-22 in Washington after a major traffic infraction may have consequences beyond just raised insurance premiums. The potential consequences of failing to file this document include:
Limited number of insurance options
After filing an SR-22, most insurance companies will consider you a high-risk driver. Insurance providers may be less willing to provide coverage to individuals with high-risk offenses compared to drivers with clean records.
Possible policy cancellation
If you commit a serious driving offense that necessitates the submission of an SR-22, your insurance provider can terminate the remainder of your policy mid-term or non-renew you at the end of your current term.
Length of required filing
In most cases, you must maintain an SR-22 filing for three years in Washington.
Higher liability coverage limits
Washington state does not require specific increased liability limits for drivers that submit an SR-22 form. However, Washington drivers still need to maintain the following minimum liability coverage limits as outlined by state law:
- $25,000 in bodily injury per person
- $50,000 in bodily injury per accident
- $10,000 in property damage per accident
Filing fees
In Washington state, the fee for filing an SR-22 is $15 to $25.
Compare Auto Insurance Rates
Ensure you're getting the best rate for your auto insurance. Compare quotes from the top insurance companies.
How to Get SR-22 Insurance in Washington
Following a traffic violation, you usually need to take the following actions to buy auto insurance in Washington:
- Find an insurance provider that offers coverage to drivers with traffic violations.
- Purchase a liability insurance policy that satisfies the state's minimum requirements.
- Request your insurance carrier to fill out an SR-22 form on your behalf to demonstrate that you are financially responsible.
- Make sure you pay all necessary fees and maintain the SR-22 form for the required duration.
Completing these steps will demonstrate to the authorities that you are taking responsibility for your driving history and have proper insurance coverage.
The license reinstatement fee after an SR-22 in Washington is $75. It is best to double-check the current fees with your state's DMV, as they are subject to change.
How to Get Cheaper Car Insurance in Washington After a DUI
Obtaining SR-22 car insurance after a DUI conviction can be expensive because you pose a greater risk to insurance providers. Regardless of its price, auto insurance is essential for protecting yourself and others on the road.
Compare quotes immediately
We highly recommend shopping around for auto insurance if you have a DUI conviction. Different insurance companies have varying underwriting standards and risk assessments, which can result in variations in rates. You can compare and select the insurance provider that offers the best value by getting quotes from multiple companies.
Complete DUI classes or programs
In certain states, DUI classes or programs are required for drivers convicted of a DUI to reinstate their driver's licenses. Enrolling in these courses can prepare you to prevent drunk driving incidents and eventually lower your rates following the SR-22 provisions.
Look for discounts
Several car insurance providers offer policyholders discounts based on specific eligibility criteria. For instance, discounts may be available to those who have a tracking device in their cars or keep their driving records clean. Talk to your insurer to find out if you qualify for any discounts.
Shop rates over time
It's a good idea to keep looking for cheaper auto insurance rates, even after you've settled on a policy. Insurance companies may offer better rates as you become a safer driver and maintain a clean record.
Non-standard auto insurance is designed to cater to individuals with a history of accidents, DUI convictions or other risk factors that make them ineligible for traditional coverage. Those having problems getting insurance elsewhere may benefit from non-standard auto insurance, despite its premiums being typically higher than those of standard policies.
Frequently Asked Questions About SR-22 Insurance in Washington
MoneyGeek answered some questions that frequently come up about SR-22 car insurance in Washington.
State Farm provides the cheapest SR-22 car insurance in Washington. Its minimum coverage policies cost an annual average of $462, while full coverage costs $962. State Farm also offers the lowest premiums for non-owner drivers at $473 per year. If you are an active-duty military member, veteran or eligible family member, you can find the cheapest insurance rates with USAA.
The filing of an SR-22 will increase the cost of auto insurance) for three to five years via a premium surcharge. A DUI conviction in Washington can result in an increase of around $297 in insurance premiums.
In Washington, the mandatory duration for holding an SR-22 is typically three years. Nonetheless, this might vary based on the gravity of the violation committed.
About Mark Fitzpatrick
Mark Fitzpatrick has analyzed the property and casualty insurance market for over five years, conducting original research and creating personalized content for every kind of buyer. Currently, he leads P&C insurance content production at MoneyGeek. Fitzpatrick has been quoted in several insurance-related publications, including CNBC, NBC News and Mashable.
Fitzpatrick earned a master’s degree in economics and international relations from Johns Hopkins University and a bachelor’s degree from Boston College. He is passionate about using his knowledge of economics and insurance to bring transparency around financial topics and help others feel confident in their money moves.
sources
- Washington State Department of Licensing. "Financial Responsibility." Accessed June 7, 2023.