In Texas, an SR-22 is a certificate your insurer files with the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) to prove you carry at least the state-minimum 30/60/25 liability coverage. Most drivers must keep it for two years from their reinstatement date, and longer after a repeat DWI. Insurers charge $15 to $25 to file.
When Texas Requires an SR-22
The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) requires an SR-22 after certain serious violations, as a condition of reinstating or keeping your license. You will generally need one after:
- A DWI or DUI conviction
- Driving without insurance or an at-fault crash while uninsured
- A license suspension you are reinstating
- Multiple serious moving violations
- Outstanding court judgments from a traffic accident
Texas SR-22 Minimum Coverage
An SR-22 in Texas must prove you carry at least the state-minimum liability limits of 30/60/25: $30,000 in bodily injury coverage per person, $60,000 per accident, and $25,000 in property damage. These limits are higher than the minimums in many other states.
How Long Do You Need an SR-22 in Texas?
Texas typically requires you to maintain an SR-22 for two years, measured from your license reinstatement date rather than the date of the violation. A second DWI can extend the requirement to three years.
Coverage must stay continuous. If your policy lapses, your insurer files a cancellation notice and the requirement can restart, delaying full reinstatement.
How Much Does an SR-22 Cost in Texas?
The filing fee is small — Texas insurers typically charge a one-time $15 to $25 to submit the certificate to DPS. The larger cost is the premium increase tied to the violation behind the filing, which a DWI raises far more than an insurance lapse.
The Texas DPS also charges a reinstatement fee that depends on the offense. Because high-risk rates vary widely, comparing carriers that file SR-22s in Texas is the best way to control the total cost.
Non-Owner SR-22 in Texas
If you need an SR-22 but do not own a vehicle, a non-owner policy satisfies the Texas requirement and lets your insurer file the certificate. It provides liability coverage when you drive cars you do not own and usually costs less than a standard policy.
How to File an SR-22 in Texas
- Confirm the requirement from your DPS reinstatement notice or court order.
- Compare quotes from carriers that file SR-22s and meet the 30/60/25 minimum.
- Buy the policy and pay the one-time filing fee.
- Pay any DPS reinstatement fee that applies.
- Keep continuous coverage for the full two-year period.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do you need an SR-22 in Texas?
Usually two years from your reinstatement date. A second DWI can extend it to three years.
What are the minimum coverage limits for an SR-22 in Texas?
Texas requires at least 30/60/25: $30,000 bodily injury per person, $60,000 per accident, and $25,000 property damage.
How much does an SR-22 cost in Texas?
Insurers charge a one-time filing fee of $15 to $25. The bigger cost is the higher premium from the violation that triggered the filing.
Can I get a non-owner SR-22 in Texas?
Yes. A non-owner policy meets the requirement if you do not own a car and is usually cheaper than a standard policy.
Who has to file an SR-22 in Texas?
Drivers reinstating a license after a DWI, driving uninsured, an at-fault uninsured crash, or multiple serious violations.