North Carolina does not use the SR-22 form. Instead, your insurer files a certificate of insurance directly with the NC Division of Motor Vehicles: an FS-1 for standard proof of coverage, or a DL-123 for high-risk drivers, which works much like an SR-22 in other states. North Carolina now requires minimum liability limits of 50/100/50.
Does North Carolina Use SR-22 Insurance?
No. North Carolina is one of a handful of states that do not use the SR-22 form. Instead, the NC Division of Motor Vehicles (NCDMV) tracks your insurance electronically, and your insurer files a certificate of coverage directly with the state. You cannot file it yourself.
If you have been told you need an SR-22 for a North Carolina license, what you actually need is a DL-123 — North Carolina's high-risk certificate of insurance, which works much like an SR-22 in other states.
FS-1 vs DL-123: North Carolina's Certificates
| Form | What it is | Who needs it |
|---|---|---|
| FS-1 | Standard certificate of insurance filed by your insurer | Registered vehicle owners proving active coverage |
| DL-123 | High-risk certificate of insurance (the SR-22 equivalent) | Drivers with a DUI, a suspended or revoked license, or a prior coverage lapse |
Both forms are filed by your insurance company. Neither can be submitted by the driver directly.
North Carolina Minimum Liability Coverage
For policies issued or renewed on or after July 1, 2025, North Carolina requires minimum liability limits of 50/100/50: $50,000 in bodily injury coverage per person, $100,000 per accident, and $50,000 in property damage. Older policies may still show the previous 30/60/25 limits until they renew.
Who Needs a DL-123 in North Carolina?
The NCDMV requires a DL-123 from higher-risk drivers as a condition of issuing or reinstating a license. You will generally need one after:
- A DWI conviction
- A license suspension or revocation you are reinstating
- A prior lapse in required coverage
- Other classifications the NCDMV treats as high risk
What If You Have an Out-of-State SR-22 Requirement?
If another state ordered you to carry an SR-22 and you now hold or want a North Carolina policy, you must keep a policy that files the SR-22 with that other state. North Carolina itself will not file an SR-22, so confirm your insurer can satisfy the out-of-state requirement before you switch.
How to Get a DL-123 in North Carolina
- Confirm what the NCDMV requires from your reinstatement notice or court order.
- Compare quotes from North Carolina carriers and meet the 50/100/50 minimum.
- Buy the policy and ask your insurer to file the DL-123 (or FS-1) with the NCDMV.
- Pay any NCDMV restoration fee that applies.
- Keep continuous coverage so your proof of insurance stays valid.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does North Carolina require SR-22 insurance?
No. North Carolina does not use the SR-22 form. Your insurer files an FS-1 or DL-123 certificate of insurance with the NCDMV instead.
What is a DL-123 in North Carolina?
A DL-123 is North Carolina's high-risk certificate of insurance, filed by your insurer. It serves the same purpose as an SR-22 in other states.
What is the difference between an FS-1 and a DL-123?
An FS-1 is the standard certificate of insurance for registered owners. A DL-123 is the high-risk version required after a DUI, suspension, or coverage lapse.
What are the minimum car insurance limits in North Carolina?
For policies issued or renewed on or after July 1, 2025, North Carolina requires 50/100/50 liability coverage.
Can I file an SR-22 or DL-123 myself in North Carolina?
No. The certificate is filed by your insurance company. A driver cannot submit it directly.