For a suspended license to be re-activated, a number of states require an “SR-22 Proof of Insurance” be filed with the state’s DMV or motor vehicle office. The form serves as proof to the state that you have secured liability insurance. However, many of the more preferred insurance companies do not offer SR-22 policies; others will sell policies at substantially increased premiums. If your current provider does not offer a high risk policy, you will likely be dropped and required to purchase a policy with a different provider. Usually the SR-22 will need to be filed before the state will consider activating your suspended license.

In most states insurance companies are required to inform the motor vehicle office if an SR-22 policy has been canceled for any reason. State oversight of SR-22 policies can last from three to five years. If canceled during that period, you will again need to purchase insurance from another provider willing to file an SR-22, or your license suspension may be re-instated.

Some states do not require filing an SR-22. In those states it may be possible for a DUI conviction to escape the notice of an insurance provider. Either through clerical errors, or because of a court required driving school course reversing the conviction, it is possible for a DUI charge to not appear on your record. However, insurance companies may raise your rates even years later, if the DUI charge is discovered.

It may seem obvious that a DUI will increase auto insurance rates, but you may experience increases in another vital insurance premium. Life insurance rates can also increase after a DUI charge appears on your record.