Official Washington Guide

Washington SR-22 Insurance

A complete roadmap to satisfying Washington DOL requirements. Compare rates, understand Broad Form options, and get your license reinstated today.

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Min. Liability

25/50/10

$25k BI / $50k Total / $10k PD

Mandate Term

3 Years

Required consecutively

Filing Fee

~$15 - $25

One-time administrative cost

How Washington SR-22 Filing Works

In Washington, the SR-22 is a "Certificate of Financial Responsibility." It is a digital document filed by your insurance carrier directly with the Washington State Department of Licensing (DOL). It serves as legal evidence that you carry the minimum liability insurance (25/50/10) required by the state 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 DOL and may reset your 3-year filing period.

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Who Needs to File in WA?

DUI / Physical Control: Convictions involving driving or having control of a vehicle while intoxicated.
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 specific timeframe.
Safety Responsibility: Failure to provide proof of insurance when requested by law enforcement or following a citation.

Broad Form vs. Non-Owner in Washington

Washington is one of the few states that allows Broad Form SR-22 Policies. While a standard Non-Owner policy covers you in borrowed cars, a Broad Form policy covers you as a driver in any car you operate, whether you own it or not. This is often the most flexible route to reinstatement.

Read our full guide on Non-Owner policies

The WA Reinstatement Timeline

Verify Requirements

Log into the Washington DOL 'License eXpress' portal to check your suspension status, eligibility date, and required fees.

Secure SR-22

Purchase a policy with 25/50/10 limits. Your insurance carrier will electronically transmit the certificate to the DOL database.

Pay Reinstatement Fee

Pay the mandatory restoration fee (typically $75) online through the official Washington DOL website.

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 Washington:

First Offense

Suspension Extension

Court Fines

Up to $1,000 + Court Costs

SR-22 Period

3-Year Clock Resets

Legal Risk

Potential Vehicle Impoundment

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Washington Filing FAQs

How much is the filing fee in Washington?

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

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

Yes. Your Washington SR-22 is valid nationwide. You must simply maintain the WA-specific limits (25/50/10) to remain compliant with state law.

What is a Broad Form SR-22 in Washington?

A Broad Form policy covers you as a driver in any vehicle you operate. Unlike a standard policy, it follows the person rather than the car, which can be cheaper for multi-vehicle households.

Can I get a Non-Owner policy in WA?

Yes, Washington 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. Washington law requires insurers to notify the DOL 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 Washington DOL to confirm the requirement is fulfilled. You can then instruct your insurer to remove the filing.

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