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Illinois · SR-22

SR-22 FAQ (Illinois)

Plain answers to the questions Illinois drivers ask most often about SR-22 filings: what the certificate is, who files it, how long it lasts, what happens if it lapses, and how DUI-specific rules like BAIID and the Restricted Driving Permit fit in. If something is unclear for your case, confirm with the Illinois Secretary of State.

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Quick reference
Form
SR-22
Cancellation form
SR-26
State agency
IL Secretary of State
Term
3 years, in most cases
Minimum limits
25 / 50 / 20

FAQ

Illinois SR-22 questions and answers

What is an SR-22?
A certificate of financial responsibility that an insurance company files with the state to prove a driver carries at least the state-required auto liability coverage. It is not a policy and it is not filed by the driver.
How do I file an SR-22 in Illinois?
You buy an auto liability policy from an insurer that is licensed in Illinois and offers SR-22 filings. The insurer transmits the SR-22 electronically to the Illinois Secretary of State.
How long is an SR-22 required in Illinois?
In most cases three years, measured from the date the driver becomes eligible for reinstatement rather than from the date of the offense.
Do I need to own a car?
No. A non-owner SR-22 policy satisfies the filing requirement for drivers who do not own a vehicle.
What is form SR-26?
The notice the insurer files with the state when SR-22 coverage cancels or lapses. In Illinois it generally causes the Secretary of State to re-suspend the driver's privileges.
What are the Illinois minimum liability limits?
Generally 25/50/20: $25,000 bodily injury per person, $50,000 bodily injury per accident, and $20,000 property damage, plus uninsured-motorist coverage at 25/50. An SR-22 policy must meet or exceed these limits.
Does every carrier file SR-22s?
No. Many standard carriers do not. Non-standard and specialty carriers write SR-22 policies as part of their regular product.
Can I switch insurers during my SR-22 term?
Yes, but the new insurer must file a new SR-22 before the old policy cancels. Any gap triggers form SR-26 and generally re-suspends your license.
Does Illinois use FR-44?
No. Only Florida and Virginia use FR-44. Illinois uses SR-22.
Will an SR-22 raise my rates?
Rates typically go up because of the underlying violation, not the filing itself. The SR-22 filing charge is usually a small one-time insurer fee.
What is BAIID?
The Breath Alcohol Ignition Interlock Device, generally required in Illinois during a Monitoring Device Driving Permit period after a first statutory summary suspension, and often during a Restricted Driving Permit period after a DUI conviction.
What is a Restricted Driving Permit (RDP)?
A limited-purpose driving permit the Illinois Secretary of State may grant during a DUI revocation for specific needs such as employment, education, medical care, or treatment. It generally requires an SR-22 filing and BAIID.
Can I drive out of state on an Illinois SR-22?
Yes, subject to the other state's rules. The SR-22 is tied to your Illinois driving privileges and the insurer that filed it.
Do I lose the SR-22 if I move?
The filing generally stays in place against your Illinois record until the required term is complete, even if you obtain a driver's license in another state.
Where can I verify Illinois requirements?
The Illinois Secretary of State at ilsos.gov is the authoritative source for driver-services rules, forms, and fees.
Is SR22AutoIns.com an insurance company?
No. SR22AutoIns.com is not an insurance agent, broker, producer, or carrier. It is an advertising and consumer-education website. Calls placed to the number on the site are routed to a licensed third party.

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Where this information comes from

Requirements, forms, fees, and timelines change. Confirm current requirements directly with the Illinois Secretary of State at ilsos.gov before acting.

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Calls are answered by a licensed insurance agent or carrier, not by SR22AutoIns.com. Calls may be recorded or monitored.