In Illinois drivers who are required to file an SR-22 form will need to maintain it for one (1) to three (3) years. This type of insurance is primarily there to prevent future uninsured accidents. If your violation occurred after January 1, 2008 the SR22 period is three years.
What types of violations require me to file an SR-22?
- Failure to maintain proper liability insurance
- Unsatisfied judgment suspension
- Revocation of license
- Drivers who receive three or more convictions for mandatory insurance violations
Is there an alternate method to file proof of financial responsibility?
Yes, the state offers the ability to not only file an SR-22 insurance form but also accepts cash, securities, or a surety bond in the amount of $55,000. The SR-22 filing is the most widely used method but some individuals prefer the bond or cash option.
How do I avoid SR-22 cancellations?
Each insurance company is required to notify the Secretary of State if they have not received payment for renewal 15 days prior to expiration. Once they are notified the suspension process begins but you can avoid this by paying your renewal at least 30 days prior to expiration.
Illinois SR22 Insurance Requirements
The state of Illinois requires all drivers with an SR22 to maintain liability insurance to protect other drivers in the event of an accident. The minimum limits are:
- $20k Per Person Bodily Injury
- $40k Per Accident Bodily Injury
- $15k Property Damage
While these limits are minimum they are rarely recommended levels of coverage. Ask your insurance agent what they recommend based on your financial position.
Illinois now accepts electronic proof of insurance during traffic stops.
Suspended License Reinstatement Process
If you have a suspended license due to Statutory Summary Suspension you can reinstate your license after the suspension period and pay $250 reinstatement fee. Once your driving record is updated to reflect the lift on suspension you license is valid again.
If this is the second or more suspension the reinstatement fee is $500 and the court where your DUI case was processed will hold your driver's license.
You can pay the reinstatement fee via check, cashier's check or money order made payable to the Secretary of State. Be sure to include your driver's license number on the check and mail to:
Secretary of State
Driver Services Department
2701 S. Dirksen Parkway
Springfield, Illinois 62723
Suspension and revocation fees can be paid via telephone using a credit card.
Driving Under the Influence (DUI) in Illinois
What is Statutory Summary Suspension?
Your license can be suspended for 6 or 36 months based on the following scenarios:
- If you refuse to submitting a chemical test of your blood, breath, or urine
- The chemical test shows a BAC .08% or higher
- Any drug substance or intoxicating compounds are found
If you are convicted of driving under the influence (DUI) the state will revoke your license for at least one year. This is in addition to the Statutory Summary Suspension period. If this is the second offense in 20 years your license will be revoked for 5 years. Learn more about getting insurance in Illinois after a DUI.
What are the penalties for first time DUI offenders in Illinois?
- Fines up to $2500
- Jail time up to 18 months if a child is in the vehicle
- Suspended license for one year
- Illinois SR22 Insurance required
- Ignition interlock device required in some cases
While these are just a few of the potential penalties for DUI offenders it is not a comprehensive list. Refer to your court documents to know what is required of you after a DUI conviction.
