Official Ohio Guide

Ohio SR-22 Insurance

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

Speak to OH Agent

Min. Liability

25/50/25

$25k BI / $50k Total / $25k PD

Mandate Term

3–5 Years

Required based on offense type

Filing Fee

~$15 - $25

One-time administrative cost

How Ohio SR-22 Filing Works

In Ohio, the SR-22 is a "Certificate of Financial Responsibility." It is a digital document filed by your insurance carrier directly with the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV). It provides legal proof that you carry the state-mandated minimum liability insurance (25/50/25) 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 mandatory filing period in Ohio.

Compare 20+ Ohio Providers

Don't call carriers one by one. Use our tool to find agents in your specific Zip Code who specialize in high-risk filings.

Free Service • Instant Results

Who Needs to File in OH?

OVI Conviction: Operating a Vehicle Impaired (OVI) is the primary trigger for a 3-year SR-22 mandate.
Random Selection: Failing to provide proof of insurance when selected by the BMV's random verification program.
Uninsured Accident: Being at-fault in a collision while failing to maintain valid liability coverage.
Judgment Suspension: Failure to pay court-ordered damages resulting from a motor vehicle accident.

Don't Own a Car in Ohio?

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

Read our full guide on Non-Owner policies

The OH Reinstatement Timeline

Check Eligibility

Access the Ohio BMV 'Online Services' portal to view your specific reinstatement requirements and pending fees.

Secure SR-22

Purchase a policy with 25/50/25 limits. Your insurance carrier will electronically transmit the certificate to the BMV in Columbus.

Pay Reinstatement Fee

Pay the mandatory fees (typically $100-$600 depending on the violation) online through the official BMV website.

Status Valid

Once the filing is logged and the fee is 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 Ohio:

First Offense

Immediate License Suspension

Court Fines

Significant Fines + Fees

SR-22 Period

3-Year Clock Resets

Vehicle Impact

Plate & Registration Revocation

Local Agents by City

Find specialized support in your area.

Columbus Cleveland Cincinnati Toledo Akron Dayton Parma Canton Lorain Hamilton

Ohio Filing FAQs

How much is the filing fee in Ohio?

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

Can I drive out of state with an OH SR-22?

Yes. Your Ohio SR-22 is valid nationwide. You must simply maintain the Ohio-specific limits (25/50/25) to remain compliant with state law.

What is the difference between SR-22 and regular insurance?

An SR-22 is not insurance; it is a certificate attached to your policy that notifies the state if your coverage lapses or is cancelled.

Can I get a Non-Owner policy in OH?

Yes, Ohio 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. Ohio law requires insurers to notify the BMV 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 mandatory period expires, contact the Ohio BMV to confirm the requirement is fulfilled. You can then instruct your insurer to remove the filing.

Call Now for Quotes