Official Virginia Guide

Virginia SR-22 Insurance

Navigating the Old Dominion’s dual-filing system. Compare rates for standard SR-22s and high-limit FR-44s to get your license reinstated today.

Min. Liability
30/60/20 or 100/300/50
FR-44 requires significantly higher limits
Mandate Term
3 Years
Required consecutively
Filing Fee
~$15 - $30
One-time administrative cost

Understanding the SR-22 vs. FR-44 in Virginia

Virginia is one of the few states that utilizes two different certificates of financial responsibility. The SR-22 is for general high-risk violations like reckless driving or driving without insurance. The FR-44 is reserved specifically for alcohol or drug-related offenses and requires you to carry double or triple the state's standard liability minimums.

The "Lapse" Penalty

Virginia law is strict: if your policy cancels for even one day, your carrier must file an SR-26 Notice. This results in an immediate license suspension and may require you to RESTART your 3-year filing period from day one.

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Who Needs to File in VA?

  • DUI / DWI (FR-44): Any conviction involving driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
  • Reckless Driving (SR-22): Excessive speed or endangerment resulting in a license suspension.
  • Maiming (FR-44): A conviction for maiming while under the influence (Va. Code § 18.2-51.4).
  • Uninsured Motorist: Driving without a valid policy or failing to pay the uninsured motor vehicle fee.

Don't Own a Car in Virginia?

You can still get reinstated! A Virginia Non-Owner SR-22 or FR-44 Policy covers you as a driver for any vehicle you borrow. It satisfies the DMV requirement and is typically much cheaper than a standard owner's policy, even with high FR-44 limits.

Read our full guide on Non-Owner policies

The VA Reinstatement Timeline

1

Check Status

Access the 'myDMV' online portal to view your compliance summary and confirm your eligibility date.

2

Secure Filing

Purchase a policy with the correct limits (30/60/20 for SR-22 or 100/300/50 for FR-44). Your insurer will e-file the certificate to Richmond.

3

Pay Reinstatement Fees

Pay the mandatory fees (typically $145–$220) online or at a DMV Customer Service Center.

4

Status Valid

Once the certificate is logged and fees are processed, your status returns to 'Valid' in the state database.

The Cost of Non-Compliance

Driving while revoked or letting your filing lapse carries severe penalties in Virginia:

First Offense

Class 1 Misdemeanor

Court Fines

Up to $2,500 + Surcharges

SR-22 Period

3-Year Clock Resets

Legal Risk

Potential Jail Time (up to 12 months)

Virginia Filing FAQs

How much is the filing fee in Virginia?
Most insurance carriers charge a one-time fee of $15-$30 to electronically file the SR-22 or FR-44 with the Virginia DMV. This is separate from your monthly premium.
Can I drive out of state with a VA SR-22?
Yes. Your Virginia filing is valid nationwide. However, if you have an FR-44, you must maintain those high limits (100/300/50) even while driving in other states.
What are the FR-44 liability limits?
Virginia requires double the standard liability limits for FR-44s: $100,000 for bodily injury per person, $300,000 per accident, and $50,000 for property damage.
Can I get a Non-Owner policy in VA?
Yes, Virginia allows Non-Owner SR-22 and FR-44 filings. It is 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. Virginia 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 filing after 3 years?
Once your 3-year mandate expires, contact the Virginia DMV to confirm the requirement is fulfilled. You can then instruct your insurer to remove the endorsement.