SR-22 Insurance in Nevada: Lapse Penalties, DUI Rules and the 3-Year Clock
Nevada requires an SR-22 for three years after long insurance lapses and DUI convictions, and a cancellation can restart the clock. Here are the official rules, fines and steps.
Nevada's DMV is unusually specific about insurance lapses: it publishes a fine schedule based on how many days you went without coverage. It is also strict about continuity: a canceled SR-22 can restart the three-year requirement. Here are the official rules.
Nevada's minimum coverage
| Coverage | Nevada minimum |
|---|---|
| Bodily injury, one person | $25,000 |
| Bodily injury, two or more people | $50,000 |
| Property damage | $20,000 |
Insurance lapse penalties
The Nevada DMV's penalty schedule for a lapse in coverage:
| Offense | Lapse length | SR-22 required | Total penalty |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1st | 1 to 30 days | No | $250 |
| 1st | 31 to 90 days | No | $500 |
| 1st | 91 to 180 days | 3 years | $750 |
| 1st | 181+ days | 3 years | $1,250 |
| 2nd (within 5 years) | 91 to 180 days | 3 years | $1,000 |
| 2nd (within 5 years) | 181+ days | 3 years | $1,500 |
| 3rd (within 5 years) | Any | 3 years, plus a license suspension of at least 30 days | $750 to $1,750 |
Source: Nevada DMV. Second-offense lapses under 91 days carry fines of $500 to $1,000 without an SR-22. Court penalties are separate.
SR-22 after a DUI in Nevada
For a first DUI offense, the Nevada DMV lists these reinstatement steps, among others:
- SR-22 for 36 consecutive months, maintained continuously; the DMV says the period runs from reinstatement.
- Ignition interlock device, installed before reinstatement, with a "Y" restriction on your license that is removed after the 36 months.
- DUI school (the DMV gives an average cost of $150) and a Victim Impact Panel.
- Reinstatement fees; the DMV's pages list amounts around $120 to $121 plus other fees, so confirm the current total.
The DMV lists a minimum revocation of 185 days for a first offense, one year for a second within seven years and three years for a third.
If your SR-22 is canceled
The DMV says your insurer will notify it immediately if you drop coverage. If you fail to maintain the SR-22, the DMV suspends your license and every registration you hold, and you may have to start the three-year requirement over. Reinstating a suspended license costs $75 plus license and testing costs. Read how to avoid an SR-22 lapse.
How to get an SR-22 in Nevada
- Check your DMV notice for the requirement, fees and any DUI-related steps.
- Get quotes for a Nevada SR-22 filing, or a non-owner policy if you don't own a car.
- Complete reinstatement at a DMV office if required.
- Keep coverage continuous for three years from reinstatement.
For costs, read how much SR-22 insurance costs.
Frequently asked questions
How long do I need an SR-22 in Nevada?
Three years. For DUI cases, the Nevada DMV describes it as 36 consecutive months, starting when your license is reinstated.
What happens if my Nevada SR-22 is canceled?
Your insurer notifies the DMV, which suspends your license along with every vehicle registration you hold. You may also have to start the three-year requirement over.
Do I need an ignition interlock after a DUI in Nevada?
The Nevada DMV lists an ignition interlock device as a requirement after a first DUI offense, installed before reinstatement, with a 'Y' restriction added to your license.
What are Nevada's minimum insurance limits?
$25,000 for bodily injury to one person, $50,000 for two or more people and $20,000 for property damage.
Sources
- Nevada Liability Insurance Requirements, Nevada DMV
- DUI, Nevada DMV
- Driver's License Suspensions, Nevada DMV
Sources were checked on October 15, 2026. Laws, fees and prices change; always confirm with your state agency or insurer.