Official Pennsylvania Guide

Pennsylvania SR-22 Insurance

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

Min. Liability
15/30/5
$15k BI / $30k Total / $5k PD
Mandate Term
3 Years
Required from date of reinstatement
Filing Fee
~$15 - $25
One-time administrative cost

How Pennsylvania SR-22 Filing Works

In Pennsylvania, the SR-22 is a "Certificate of Financial Responsibility." It is a digital document filed by your insurance carrier directly with the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT). It serves as legal evidence that you carry the minimum liability insurance (15/30/5) required by the Commonwealth to restore 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 PennDOT and may reset your 3-year filing period.

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Who Needs to File in PA?

  • DUI Conviction: Driving under the influence of alcohol or controlled substances.
  • Uninsured Accident: Being involved in a reportable accident while failing to maintain valid liability insurance.
  • Habitual Offender: Accumulating too many points or serious moving violations within a short timeframe.
  • Judgment Suspension: Failure to pay court-ordered damages resulting from an auto accident.

Don't Own a Car in Pennsylvania?

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

Read our full guide on Non-Owner policies

The PA Reinstatement Timeline

1

Verify Requirements

Download your 'Restoration Requirements Letter' from the PennDOT online self-service portal to see your specific fees and eligibility date.

2

Secure SR-22

Purchase a policy with 15/30/5 limits. Your insurance carrier will electronically transmit the certificate to PennDOT in Harrisburg.

3

Pay Reinstatement Fee

Pay the mandatory restoration fee (typically $100 or more) online through the official PennDOT website.

4

Status Valid

Once the SR-22 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 Pennsylvania:

First Offense

Suspension Extension

Court Fines

Up to $500 + Court Costs

SR-22 Period

3-Year Clock Resets

Legal Risk

Potential Summary Criminal Charges

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Pennsylvania Filing FAQs

How much is the filing fee in Pennsylvania?
Most insurance carriers charge a one-time fee of $15-$25 to electronically file the certificate with PennDOT. This is separate from your monthly premium.
Can I drive out of state with a PA SR-22?
Yes. Your Pennsylvania SR-22 is valid nationwide. You must simply maintain the PA-specific limits (15/30/5) to remain compliant with Commonwealth 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 PennDOT if your coverage lapses.
Can I get a Non-Owner policy in PA?
Yes, Pennsylvania 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. Pennsylvania law requires insurers to notify PennDOT 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 PennDOT to confirm the requirement is fulfilled. You can then instruct your insurer to remove the filing.