Official Louisiana Guide

Louisiana SR-22 Insurance

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

Min. Liability
15/30/25
$15k BI / $30k Total / $25k PD
Mandate Term
3 Years
Standard from reinstatement date
Filing Fee
~$15 - $25
One-time administrative cost

How Louisiana SR-22 Filing Works

In Louisiana, the SR-22 is a "Certificate of Financial Responsibility." It is a digital document filed by your insurance carrier directly with the Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles (OMV). It serves as legal proof that you carry the state-mandated minimum liability insurance (15/30/25) required to restore and maintain 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 LA?

  • DWI Conviction: Operating a vehicle while intoxicated by alcohol or drugs.
  • No-Insurance Violation: Being caught driving without the required liability coverage (Louisiana 'No Pay, No Play' law).
  • At-Fault Accidents: Causing an accident resulting in injury or property damage while uninsured.
  • Unsatisfied Judgments: Failure to pay court-ordered damages resulting from a motor vehicle accident.

Don't Own a Car in Louisiana?

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

Read our full guide on Non-Owner policies

The LA Reinstatement Timeline

1

Check Eligibility

Access the Louisiana OMV 'ExpressLane' online portal to confirm your eligibility date and required reinstatement fees.

2

Secure SR-22

Purchase a policy with 15/30/25 limits. Your insurance carrier will electronically transmit the certificate to the OMV database.

3

Pay Reinstatement Fees

Pay the mandatory fees (typically $100-$500 depending on prior offenses) online or at a local OMV field office.

4

License Valid

Once the SR-22 is logged and fees are processed, your driving status returns to 'Valid' and you can apply for a duplicate license.

The Cost of Non-Compliance

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

First Offense

Suspension Extension

Court Fines

Up to $500 + Surcharges

SR-22 Period

3-Year Clock Resets

Vehicle Impact

Mandatory Impoundment

Louisiana Filing FAQs

How much is the filing fee in Louisiana?
Most insurance carriers charge a one-time fee of $15-$25 to electronically file the certificate with the Louisiana OMV. This is separate from your monthly premium.
Can I drive out of state with a LA SR-22?
Yes. Your Louisiana SR-22 is valid nationwide. You must simply maintain the Louisiana-specific limits (15/30/25) to remain compliant with state law.
What is the difference between SR-22 and normal insurance?
An SR-22 is not insurance itself; it is a certificate of financial responsibility attached to your policy that notifies the OMV if your coverage lapses.
Can I get a Non-Owner policy in LA?
Yes, Louisiana allows Non-Owner SR-22 filings. It is often the most cost-effective way to restore your license if you do not own a vehicle.
Will my license be suspended if I miss a payment?
Yes. Louisiana law requires insurers to notify the OMV immediately (via SR-26) if your policy lapses, which triggers an instant automatic suspension.
How do I remove the SR-22 after 3 years?
Once your 3-year mandate expires, contact the Louisiana OMV to confirm the requirement is fulfilled. You can then instruct your insurer to remove the filing.