SR-22 Insurance in Arizona: How Long, When the Clock Starts and Requirements (2026)

Arizona's SR-22 rules are run by the Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) of the Arizona Department of Transportation. The basic period is three years, but Arizona is unusual in how carefully it defines when that period starts. Getting the start date right can save you months of extra premiums.

Who needs an SR-22 in Arizona

According to Arizona MVD, an SR-22 is proof that a driver carries the required minimum coverage. It is required when you are convicted of certain traffic violations or fail to maintain liability insurance on a vehicle you own or lease.

Arizona's minimum coverage

Coverage	Arizona minimum
Bodily injury, one person	$25,000
Bodily injury, two or more people	$50,000
Property damage	$15,000

Source: Arizona MVD insurance requirements.

How long, and when the clock starts

MVD's FAQ gives three years as the general rule. Its future financial responsibility page sets the starting point by violation type:

Reason for the SR-22	When the period starts or ends
Alcohol- or drug-related revocations, court-ordered DUI or implied-consent suspensions	Three years from the end date of the revocation or suspension
Insurance law violations (A.R.S. 28-4135)	Three years from the date you become eligible for reinstatement
Nonpayment and default judgments	The full judgment term plus two years after the judgment is satisfied

MVD's general FAQ refers to the date of suspension; confirm your exact dates with MVD.

How the filing works

Electronic filing: your insurer sends the SR-22 to MVD electronically, so you usually don't file it yourself.
Arizona-licensed insurer: vehicles registered in Arizona must be insured by a company licensed to do business in the state.
No car: MVD says you will need a non-owner policy. See non-owner SR-22 insurance.

If it lapses

If your SR-22 lapses, Arizona MVD says your license and registration will be suspended again. To clear a registration suspension, you need proof of Arizona insurance that was in force at the time; otherwise MVD lists a $50 reinstatement fee plus current proof of coverage. See how to avoid and fix an SR-22 lapse.

How to get an SR-22 in Arizona

Confirm the reason and start date of your requirement with MVD.
Get quotes from Arizona-licensed insurers that file SR-22s.
Buy at least 25/50/15, and consider higher limits.
Make sure the insurer files electronically with MVD, then complete reinstatement.
Keep coverage continuous until MVD confirms the requirement has ended.

Compare Arizona with other states in SR-22 periods by state.

Frequently asked questions

How long do I need an SR-22 in Arizona?

Generally three years. Arizona MVD's guidance sets different start dates by violation, and judgment cases can last longer, so confirm your exact period with MVD.

Can I use an out-of-state insurer for an Arizona SR-22?

Arizona MVD says vehicles registered in Arizona must be insured by a company licensed to do business in Arizona. Out-of-state policies generally don't qualify.

I don't own a car. How do I get an SR-22 in Arizona?

Arizona MVD says you will need a non-owner policy to get an SR-22 if you don't own a vehicle.

What does it cost to reinstate a suspended Arizona registration?

If you can't show proof of insurance that was in effect at the time of the suspension, MVD lists a $50 reinstatement fee plus current proof of Arizona coverage.

Sources

Sources were checked on October 15, 2026. Laws, fees and prices change; always confirm with your state agency or insurer.