Official Colorado Guide

Colorado SR-22 Insurance

A complete roadmap to satisfying Colorado DMV requirements. Compare rates, understand liability limits, and get your license reinstated today.

Min. Liability
25/50/15
$25k BI / $50k Total / $15k PD
Mandate Term
3 Years
Standard from date of reinstatement
Filing Fee
~$15 - $25
One-time administrative cost

How Colorado SR-22 Filing Works

In Colorado, the SR-22 is a "Certificate of Financial Responsibility." It is a digital document filed by your insurance carrier directly with the Colorado Department of Revenue (DMV). It serves as legal proof that you maintain the state-mandated minimum liability insurance (25/50/15) required to restore and keep your driving privileges.

The "Re-Suspension" Trap

If your policy cancels or lapses for even one day, your carrier is legally required to file an SR-26 Notice. This triggers an immediate suspension of your license and may reset your 3-year filing period.

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Who Needs to File in CO?

  • DUI / DWAI: Driving Under the Influence or Driving While Ability Impaired convictions.
  • Point Accumulation: Gaining too many points on your driving record within a 12 or 24-month period.
  • Uninsured Accident: Being involved in an accident without insurance that results in injury or significant property damage.
  • Habitual Traffic Offender: Drivers designated as HTO due to repeated serious traffic violations.

Don't Own a Car in Colorado?

You can still get reinstated! A Colorado Non-Owner SR-22 Policy covers you as a driver for any vehicle you borrow. It satisfies the Colorado DMV requirement and is typically much cheaper than a standard owner's policy.

Read our full guide on Non-Owner policies

The CO Reinstatement Timeline

1

Verify Requirements

Check your status on the Colorado DMV online services portal to confirm your eligibility date and required items.

2

Secure SR-22

Purchase a policy with 25/50/15 limits. Your insurance company will e-file the certificate to the Denver DMV headquarters.

3

Pay Reinstatement Fee

Pay the mandatory $95 reinstatement fee online or via mail to clear the administrative hold on your license.

4

License Restored

Once the SR-22 is logged and the fee is processed, your driving privileges are officially reinstated.

The Cost of Non-Compliance

Driving while suspended or letting your SR-22 lapse carries severe penalties in Colorado:

First Offense

License Suspension Extension

Court Fines

Up to $500 + Surcharges

SR-22 Period

3-Year Clock Resets

Potential Jail

Up to 90 Days for DUR

Colorado Filing FAQs

How much is the filing fee in Colorado?
Most insurance carriers charge a one-time fee of $15-$25 to electronically file the certificate with the Colorado DMV. This is separate from your monthly premium.
Can I drive out of state with a CO SR-22?
Yes. Your Colorado SR-22 is valid nationwide. You must simply maintain the Colorado-specific limits (25/50/15) as required by the state.
What is the difference between SR-22 and normal insurance?
An SR-22 is a certificate of financial responsibility that is attached to your insurance policy. It alerts the state if you ever lose your coverage.
Can I get a Non-Owner policy in CO?
Yes, Colorado allows Non-Owner SR-22 filings. It is often the most affordable route to reinstatement for drivers without a car.
Will my license be suspended if I miss a payment?
Yes. Colorado law requires insurers to notify the DMV immediately (via SR-26) if your policy lapses, which triggers an automatic suspension.
How do I remove the SR-22 after 3 years?
Once your 3-year mandate expires, contact the Colorado DMV to confirm the requirement is fulfilled. You can then instruct your insurer to remove the SR-22 filing.