Official Texas Guide

Texas SR-22 Insurance

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

Min. Liability
30/60/25
$30k BI / $60k Total / $25k PD
Mandate Term
2 Years
From date of conviction
Filing Fee
~$15 - $25
One-time administrative cost

How Texas SR-22 Filing Works

In Texas, the SR-22 is a "Certificate of Financial Responsibility." It is not an insurance policy itself, but a digital document filed by your insurance carrier directly with the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) in Austin. It proves that you carry the state-mandated minimum liability coverage.

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 2-year filing period.

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Who Needs to File in TX?

  • DUI / DWI: Convictions for driving while intoxicated typically trigger a 2-year requirement.
  • Driving Without Insurance: Being caught driving without valid liability coverage (No Insurance conviction).
  • Invalid License: Driving with a suspended or invalid license (DWLI).
  • Too Many Points: Accumulating excessive traffic violations within a short period.

Don't Own a Car in Texas?

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

Read our full guide on Non-Owner policies

The TX Reinstatement Timeline

1

Check Eligibility

Log into the Texas DPS 'License Eligibility' website to view your specific compliance items and pending fees.

2

Secure SR-22

Purchase a policy. Your carrier will electronically transmit the certificate to the Austin DPS database.

3

Pay Civil Fees

Pay the mandatory Reinstatement fees (typically ~$100) online through the Texas.gov portal.

4

Status Eligible

Once the SR-22 is logged and fees are cleared, your status changes to 'Eligible' for renewal.

The Cost of Non-Compliance

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

First Offense

DWLI Arrest (Class C Misdemeanor)

Court Fines

Up to $500 + Surcharges

SR-22 Period

Reset to Day 1 (Full 2 Years)

Registration

Renewal Blocked (OmniBase)

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Texas Filing FAQs

How much is the filing fee in Texas?
Insurance carriers typically charge a one-time fee of $15-$25 to electronically transmit the certificate to the DPS. This is separate from your monthly premium.
Can I drive out of state with a TX SR-22?
Yes. Your Texas SR-22 allows you to drive legally in other states, provided you maintain the filing. The requirement follows your license, not your physical location.
What is the difference between SR-22 and Liability?
Liability insurance pays for damages you cause. The SR-22 is the *proof* sent to the state that you have that liability insurance. It acts as a monitoring device for the DPS.
Can I get a Non-Owner policy in TX?
Yes, Texas allows Non-Owner SR-22 filings. This is the cheapest way to reinstate your license if you do not own a vehicle.
Will my license be suspended if I miss a payment?
Yes. Texas law requires insurers to file an SR-26 cancellation form immediately upon a policy lapse. The DPS will then suspend your license until a new SR-22 is filed.
How do I remove the SR-22 after 2 years?
Once your 2-year mandate is over, check your eligibility status on the Texas DPS website to confirm you are clear. Then, call your insurer to remove the filing endorsement.