Understanding SR22 and Reinstatement in Ohio

If your Ohio driver’s license was suspended or revoked, you may have encountered the term SR22 and wondered how it relates to reinstating your driving privileges.

What Is SR22 Insurance?

SR22 does not refer to insurance in the traditional sense. It’s a certificate proving you have the required minimum auto liability insurance coverage. Like many other states, Ohio requires drivers to have specific insurance coverage to operate a vehicle legally.

Not every Ohio driver must file SR22, but there are several situations in which the state of Ohio may require you to file an SR22 certificate, including the following:

• Driving without insurance conviction
• Driving while intoxicated (DUI) conviction
• Serious traffic violations, such as reckless driving or accumulating too many points on your driving record within a short period

How Do You File an SR22 Certificate?

When you’re required to file an SR22 certificate, contact your insurance provider. They will file the SR22 certificate with the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) on your behalf. The SR22 certificate proves to the BMV that you have the necessary insurance coverage.

Insurers typically see drivers required to file SR22 as high risk, which triggers higher insurance premiums. Your agent can help you minimize the financial impact of an SR22 requirement by shopping around for appropriate auto insurance coverage on your behalf.

How Can You Get Your License Reinstated in Ohio?

Before you can begin the reinstatement process, you must first serve the suspension period imposed by the BMV. The length of the suspension period may vary depending on the reason for your suspension.

As mentioned, you’ll obtain SR22 insurance and have your insurance provider file the SR22 certificate with the BMV.

Depending on the reason for your suspension, you may be required to complete specific programs, such as alcohol or drug counseling or defensive driving courses.

You may need to retake the driver’s license exam or other tests as part of the reinstatement process.

Visit a BMV office in person to complete the reinstatement process. Ensure you bring all necessary documentation, including your SR22 certificate, proof of insurance and any other required documents.

Contact Us

Understanding SR22 insurance and the reinstatement process in Ohio is essential if you face a license suspension. It’s crucial to comply with all requirements set by the BMV and maintain your SR22 insurance coverage for the specified period to ensure a smooth reinstatement process.

If you must file SR22, contact 1st Choice Insurance in Fairfield, OH, for appropriate auto insurance coverage at favorable rates.

This blog is intended for informational and educational use only. It is not exhaustive and should not be construed as legal advice. Please contact your insurance professional for further information.