An SR-22 is not a type of insurance. ADOT describes it as "a certificate that shows you have the minimum liability insurance requirement," filed by your insurance company directly with MVD. Arizona typically requires one after an insurance-related suspension or a serious traffic offense, and you must keep it in place for the full required period.
SR-22 basics
| Question | ADOT answer |
|---|---|
| What is it? | A certificate from an insurer licensed in Arizona proving you carry at least the minimum liability coverage |
| Who files it? | Your insurance company sends it directly to MVD |
| How long must I keep it? | Generally three years from the date of suspension; judgment suspensions vary case by case |
| What if it lapses? | Your license and registration will be suspended again |
| I don't own a car | You can get a non-owner SR-22 |
When Arizona requires one
- Driving without required insurance: A.R.S. § 28-4135 suspends or restricts driving privileges after a first violation and suspends the license and registration after later ones; after a third violation within 36 months, reinstatement requires proof of future financial responsibility.
- Failing to maintain insurance on a registered vehicle: ADOT says reinstatement needs proof of Arizona liability insurance that was active before the suspension; without it, you pay a $50 fee, provide current proof and may need an SR-22.
- A judgment from an uninsured accident: ADOT describes a judgment suspension as generally a court order after an accident while uninsured; the SR-22 period varies.
- Other serious offenses that lead to a suspension or revocation, where MVD requires future proof of financial responsibility.
MVD decides whether and how long you need one. ADOT suggests contacting MVD to confirm your own requirement.
Getting and keeping an SR-22
- Confirm the requirement and end date with MVD (AZ MVD Now account or by contacting MVD).
- Ask insurers licensed in Arizona whether they file SR-22s. Not every insurer does. Check a company's license on DIFI's license search.
- Buy a policy with at least 25/50/15 liability (or a non-owner policy) and ask the insurer to file the SR-22 with MVD.
- Pay MVD's reinstatement fees and confirm MVD shows the filing.
- Keep the policy active with no lapse until the requirement ends; set automatic payments and a calendar reminder for renewal.
- When the period ends, confirm with MVD before dropping the filing.
Cost and your driving record
Expect higher premiums while the underlying violation is on your record. ADOT notes that convictions from the past 39 months are reported when an insurer runs your motor vehicle record, and a conviction stays on your record for five years from the conviction date. If insurers in the voluntary market decline you, the Arizona Automobile Insurance Plan is the market of last resort; see our cancellation guide.
Questions readers ask
How long do you need an SR-22 in Arizona?
ADOT says generally three years from the date of suspension, except judgment suspensions, which vary. Confirm your date with MVD.
Can I get an SR-22 without a car in Arizona?
Yes. ADOT says you can get a non-owner SR-22.
What happens if my SR-22 lapses in Arizona?
Your license and registration will be suspended again, according to ADOT.
Who files the SR-22 in Arizona?
Your insurance company files it directly with MVD.
Sources and further reading
Sources checked October 26, 2026. Figures are the latest published by each source at that date.
- ADOT MVD: Insurance information and requirements (SR-22, reinstatement)
- ADOT MVD: Drivers FAQ (SR-22 duration, motor vehicle records)
- A.R.S. § 28-4135: Financial responsibility penalties
- AIPSO: Arizona Automobile Insurance Plan
General educational information, not advice for your situation. Policy wording, state law and the insurer's decision control actual coverage. Written and edited by K.R. Not reviewed by a licensed insurance agent; confirm details with a licensed professional or your insurer. Examples use hypothetical figures unless a source is named. Report a correction.
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