Texas SR-22 Requirements: Who Needs One and for How Long
An SR-22 is not insurance. It is a certificate your insurer files with the state to prove you carry coverage.
- Used in this state
- Yes
- Form
- SR-22
The statute never uses the term "SR-22" — it requires "evidence of financial responsibility". SR-22 is the administrative form DPS accepts for it.
- How long it must stay on file
- 2 years
Two years. The clock runs from the subsequent conviction for a repeat no-insurance conviction (§ 601.231), and from the date of the collision for a crash-related suspension (§ 601.162). Evidence cannot be released before the second anniversary of the date it was required (§ 601.056).
- What triggers it
- Alcohol-related offenses · Drug or controlled substance offenses · Conviction for driving without liability insurance · An unsatisfied judgment arising from a crash
- If coverage lapses
- License re-suspended
If coverage lapses, the driver license and/or driving privilege is re-suspended. Reinstatement requires a new SR-22 and a $100 reinstatement fee.
- Reinstatement fee
- $100
A single $100 fee covers every license and registration reinstated in connection with the payment (§ 601.376).