How to Remove or Cancel SR22 Filing Without Being Penalized

There are only two reasons you should want to cancel or remove an SR22 filing from your auto insurance: switching insurance companies or completed required SR22 probation period. I say these are the only two reasons because if you remove the SR22 prior to the end of your required period your license will be suspended again.

This article will help those who are in one of the two situations I listed stop the SR22 filing without penalty from the state.

Switching Insurance Companies

Let's start with those who are planning to switch insurance companies because they have found a lower rate or they just don't like the company. This is common since most drivers will be required to carry the SR-22 for three years it is likely lower rates are available during this time at another company. Here is a checklist of how to go about switching auto insurance while you have SR22 filed:

1. Get SR22 Insurance Quotes - Before switching companies compare rates from leading companies in your state. Each insurance company has different rates so you may be able to save 25% or more.
2. Start New SR22 Policy - Prior to canceling the old policy make sure you have the new one in force and the SR22 is filed with the state. It can take a few days for the state to receive this information.
3. Cancel Old SR22 Policy - Once you get confirmation from the new insurance company that the policy is in force and the SR-22 has been filed you can cancel the old policy. To ensure that there is no lapse in coverage I would recommend cancelling the old policy 2-3 days after the new one is in force. This will allow time for the new filing to update at the state motor vehicle department.

Required SR22 Period Completed

Now let's discuss removing an SR22 filing from your auto insurance policy once the three year probation period is complete. Depending on your court decision you may be required to maintain an SR-22 for 3-5 years so check with your court documents.

Some states will send a notice that your SR22 filing period is complete but most states don't so the only way to know is by referencing the original court paperwork. Here is a checklist of how to remove an SR22 from your auto insurance:

1. Reference Court Documents - These court documents would be available to you after the hearing and will detail each step needed to reinstate your license. In this paperwork is how long you will be required to maintain an SR22 form.
2. Call State Department of Motor Vehicles - Prior to making any changes on your SR22 insurance policy you should call the DMV to confirm you are eligible to remove the SR-22 filing.
3. Call Insurance Company to Remove SR22 - After you have confirmed with your court documents and with the state then the only step left is to call the insurance company and inform them that the SR22 is no longer needed. The insurance company will remove the filing from your auto insurance at this time.