SR-22 Insurance in Texas: Requirements, Costs and How to File
Texas requires an SR-22 for two years from your most recent conviction or judgment. Here is who needs one, the coverage it must certify, what a lapse costs and where to turn if insurers say no.
Texas is one of the largest markets for SR-22 filings, and its rules are fairly clear once you know where to look. This guide summarizes what the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) and the Texas Department of Insurance say about who needs an SR-22, for how long and what happens if it lapses.
What an SR-22 is in Texas
An SR-22 is a certificate your insurance company files with Texas DPS to prove you carry at least the liability coverage Texas law requires. DPS describes it as a certificate that most insurance providers can issue. You don't buy the SR-22 on its own; you buy an auto policy and the insurer files the certificate. For the basics, see what an SR-22 is and how it works.
Who needs an SR-22 in Texas
Texas DPS requires an SR-22 when a driver must show proof of financial responsibility to reinstate a license, typically after a conviction or an unpaid judgment from a crash. Your suspension notice from DPS will state whether you need one. If you are unsure, check the notice or contact DPS before you buy a policy.
Coverage the SR-22 must certify
Texas law sets minimum liability limits, often written as 30/60/25:
| Coverage | Texas minimum |
|---|---|
| Bodily injury, per person | $30,000 |
| Bodily injury, per accident | $60,000 |
| Property damage, per accident | $25,000 |
A basic liability policy only protects other people; it doesn't cover your own injuries or your car. Collision, comprehensive and uninsured motorist coverage are not required by Texas law, though a lender may require some of them. See how much car insurance you need.
How long you need it
According to Texas DPS, you must maintain a valid SR-22 for two years from the date of your most recent conviction, or from the date a judgment was rendered against you. Note the words "most recent": a new conviction can push the end date back. Compare with other states in how long you need an SR-22.
What happens if it lapses
Your insurer automatically notifies DPS if your SR-22 is canceled, terminated or lapses. DPS says that if you let the coverage lapse:
- your driver license or driving privilege is re-suspended,
- you must file a new SR-22, and
- you must pay a $100 reinstatement fee.
Use automatic payments and overlap policies when you switch insurers. Read how to avoid and fix an SR-22 lapse.
If you don't own a car
DPS tells drivers who don't own a vehicle to ask insurers about a Texas non-owner SR-22 policy. It provides liability coverage when you drive a borrowed or rented car. MoneyGeek's October 2026 analysis puts the national average for non-owner SR-22 coverage at about $75 a month. See non-owner SR-22 insurance.
If insurers turn you down: TAIPA
If you can't find coverage, Texas has an insurer of last resort, the Texas Automobile Insurance Plan Association (TAIPA). According to the Texas Department of Insurance, you can apply if at least two insurance companies have turned you down for auto liability coverage in the past 60 days. TAIPA provides basic liability coverage at state minimum limits; it doesn't sell collision, comprehensive or higher liability limits.
How to get an SR-22 in Texas, step by step
- Read your DPS notice for the SR-22 requirement and any reinstatement fees.
- Request quotes for "an SR-22 filing in Texas" from several insurers. If you don't own a car, ask for a non-owner policy.
- Buy the policy with at least 30/60/25 liability, and confirm the insurer will file the SR-22 with DPS.
- Pay reinstatement fees and complete any other DPS requirements.
- Keep the policy active for two years from your most recent conviction or judgment, then confirm with DPS before removing the filing.
Want to estimate the total cost? Read how much SR-22 insurance costs.
Frequently asked questions
How long do I need an SR-22 in Texas?
Two years from the date of your most recent conviction, or from the date a judgment was rendered against you, according to the Texas Department of Public Safety.
What happens if my Texas SR-22 lapses?
Your insurer notifies DPS, your license or driving privilege is re-suspended, and you must file a new SR-22 and pay a $100 reinstatement fee.
Can I get an SR-22 in Texas without a car?
Yes. Texas DPS tells drivers who don't own a vehicle to ask an insurer about a Texas non-owner SR-22 policy.
What if no insurer will cover me in Texas?
The Texas Automobile Insurance Plan Association (TAIPA) is the state's insurer of last resort. You can apply if at least two insurers have turned you down for auto liability coverage in the past 60 days. It only offers basic liability at state minimum limits.
Sources
- Section 9: SR-22 (Proof of Financial Responsibility), Texas Department of Public Safety
- Financial Responsibility Insurance Certificate (SR-22), Texas Department of Public Safety
- Auto Insurance: The Basics, Texas Office of Public Insurance Counsel
- Other ways to get auto, home, and wind insurance in Texas, Texas Department of Insurance
- Non-Owner SR-22 Insurance (updated October 1, 2026), MoneyGeek
Sources were checked on October 14, 2026. Laws, fees and prices change; always confirm with your state agency or insurer.