Official North Carolina Guide

North Carolina SR-22 Insurance

A complete roadmap to satisfying North Carolina NCDMV requirements. Compare rates, understand liability limits, and get your license reinstated today.

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Min. Liability

30/60/25

$30k BI / $60k Total / $25k PD

Mandate Term

3 Years

Standard from date of reinstatement

Filing Fee

~$15 - $25

One-time administrative cost

How North Carolina SR-22 Filing Works

In North Carolina, the SR-22 is a "Certificate of Financial Responsibility." It is a digital document filed by your insurance carrier directly with the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles (NCDMV). It provides legal proof that you maintain the state-mandated minimum liability insurance (30/60/25) 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 by the NCDMV and may reset your 3-year filing period.

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Who Needs to File in NC?

DWI Conviction: Driving While Impaired is the primary reason for a mandatory SR-22 filing.
Uninsured Accident: Being involved in an accident while failing to maintain valid liability insurance.
Point Accumulation: Receiving 12 or more points on your driving record within a 3-year period.
License Revocation: Any administrative or court-ordered revocation requiring proof of financial responsibility for reinstatement.

Don't Own a Car in North Carolina?

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

Read our full guide on Non-Owner policies

The NC Reinstatement Timeline

Check Eligibility

Access the NCDMV 'MyDMV' portal to verify your license status and specific restoration requirements.

Secure SR-22

Purchase a policy with 30/60/25 limits. Your insurance carrier will electronically transmit the certificate to the DMV in Raleigh.

Pay Reinstatement Fees

Pay the mandatory fees (typically $100 total for restoration and service) online or at a local DMV field office.

Status Valid

Once the SR-22 is logged and fees are processed, your driving privileges are officially restored in the state system.

The Cost of Non-Compliance

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

First Offense

Immediate License Suspension

Court Fines

Up to $500 + Court Costs

SR-22 Period

3-Year Clock Resets

Legal Risk

Arrest for DWLR

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North Carolina Filing FAQs

How much is the filing fee in North Carolina?

Most insurance carriers charge a one-time fee of $15-$25 to electronically file the certificate with the NCDMV. This is separate from your monthly premium.

Can I drive out of state with a NC SR-22?

Yes. Your North Carolina SR-22 is valid nationwide. You must maintain the North Carolina-specific limits (30/60/25) 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 DMV if your coverage lapses.

Can I get a Non-Owner policy in NC?

Yes, North Carolina 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. North Carolina law requires insurers to notify the DMV 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 NCDMV to confirm the requirement is fulfilled. You can then instruct your insurer to remove the filing.

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