Official West Virginia Guide

West Virginia SR-22 Insurance

A complete roadmap to satisfying West Virginia DMV requirements. Compare rates, understand liability limits, and get your license reinstated today.

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Min. Liability

25/50/25

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

Mandate Term

3 Years

Required from date of reinstatement

Filing Fee

~$15 - $25

One-time administrative cost

How West Virginia SR-22 Filing Works

In West Virginia, the SR-22 is a "Certificate of Financial Responsibility." It is a digital document filed by your insurance carrier directly with the West Virginia Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV). It provides legal proof that you maintain 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 by the West Virginia DMV and may reset your 3-year filing period.

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Who Needs to File in WV?

DUI Conviction: Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is the primary reason for a West Virginia mandate.
Uninsured Accident: Being involved in a reportable accident while failing to maintain valid liability insurance.
License Revocation: Administrative or court-ordered revocations for serious traffic violations or point accumulation.
Unsatisfied Judgments: Failure to pay court-ordered damages resulting from an auto accident.

Don't Own a Car in West Virginia?

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

Read our full guide on Non-Owner policies

The WV Reinstatement Timeline

Verify Requirements

Contact the West Virginia DMV in Charleston or check the online portal to confirm your specific fees and eligibility date.

Secure SR-22

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

Pay Reinstatement Fee

Pay the mandatory license reinstatement fee (typically $50-$100) online through the official West Virginia DMV website or at a regional office.

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 West Virginia:

First Offense

Suspension Extension

Court Fines

Up to $500 + Court Costs

SR-22 Period

3-Year Clock Resets

Legal Risk

Potential Jail Time for DWLS

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West Virginia Filing FAQs

How much is the filing fee in West Virginia?

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

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

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

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

An SR-22 is not insurance; it is a certificate of financial responsibility attached to your policy that notifies the DMV if your coverage lapses.

Can I get a Non-Owner policy in WV?

Yes, West Virginia 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. West 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 SR-22 after 3 years?

Once your 3-year mandate expires, contact the West Virginia DMV to confirm the requirement is fulfilled. You can then instruct your insurer to remove the filing.

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