Official Massachusetts Guide

Massachusetts SR-22 Insurance

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

Min. Liability
20/40/5
$20k BI / $40k Total / $5k PD
Mandate Term
3 Years
From date of reinstatement
Filing Fee
~$15 - $25
One-time administrative cost

How Massachusetts SR-22 Filing Works

In Massachusetts, the SR-22 is a "Certificate of Financial Responsibility." It is a digital document filed by your insurance carrier directly with the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV). It provides legal evidence that you carry the state's minimum required liability coverage (20/40/5) 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 by the RMV and may reset your 3-year filing period.

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Who Needs to File in MA?

  • OUI Conviction: Operating Under the Influence of alcohol or drugs is the most common reason for a mandate.
  • Habitual Traffic Offender: Accumulating three major violations or 12 minor violations within a 5-year period.
  • Uninsured Accident: Being involved in an accident while failing to maintain valid liability insurance.
  • Serious Moving Violations: Reckless driving or multiple speeding tickets that result in a license suspension.

Don't Own a Car in Massachusetts?

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

Read our full guide on Non-Owner policies

The MA Reinstatement Timeline

1

Verify Requirements

Access the 'myRMV' online portal to confirm your eligibility date and required reinstatement fees.

2

Secure SR-22

Purchase a policy with 20/40/5 limits. Your insurance carrier will electronically transmit the certificate to the RMV database.

3

Pay Reinstatement Fee

Pay the mandatory fees (typically $100-$1,200 depending on the offense) online or at an RMV Service Center.

4

Status Valid

Once the SR-22 is logged and fees are processed, your driving status returns to 'Active' in the state system.

The Cost of Non-Compliance

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

First Offense

Immediate License Suspension

Court Fines

Up to $1,000 + Court Costs

SR-22 Period

3-Year Clock Resets

Legal Risk

Potential Jail Time for Repeat Offenses

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Massachusetts Filing FAQs

How much is the filing fee in Massachusetts?
Most insurance carriers charge a one-time fee of $15-$25 to electronically file the certificate with the Massachusetts RMV. This is separate from your monthly premium.
Can I drive out of state with a MA SR-22?
Yes. Your Massachusetts SR-22 is valid nationwide. You must maintain the Massachusetts-specific limits (20/40/5) 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 RMV if your coverage lapses.
Can I get a Non-Owner policy in MA?
Yes, Massachusetts 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. Massachusetts law requires insurers to notify the RMV 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 Massachusetts RMV to confirm the requirement is fulfilled. You can then instruct your insurer to remove the filing.