Can I change insurance companies with SR-22?

Yes, but new insurer must file new SR-22 before canceling old policy to avoid lapse.

If you have an SR-22 requirement, you can indeed switch insurance companies. However, it's crucial to ensure that the new insurance company files a new SR-22 form on your behalf before you cancel your current policy. An SR-22 is a certificate of financial responsibility mandated by the state to verify that you carry the necessary auto insurance coverage. When you decide to switch insurers, the lapse between the old SR-22 being canceled and the new one being filed can cause significant issues, such as your driver's license being suspended again. Hence, seamless coordination between the cancellation of the old policy and the filing of the new SR-22 is essential to maintain compliance with state requirements without any interruptions in coverage.

Imagine you've been with Insurance A for some time but find a cheaper and better policy with Insurance B. However, since the state mandates you to have an SR-22, you need to be cautious. You contact Insurance B, and they assure you they will file the SR-22. Before signing on with them, you confirm that the SR-22 has been properly filed. Only after you have confirmation do you cancel your policy with Insurance A. This approach ensures there is no gap in your coverage or issues with your driving record.

When considering a switch in your insurance provider while under an SR-22 requirement, always confirm with your new insurer that they are capable of filing SR-22 forms. Make sure that the new SR-22 is successfully filed before deactivating your old policy. This proactive planning helps avoid any lapses in coverage which could lead to further penalties or complications with your driving privileges. It can also be wise to communicate clearly with both the old and new insurance providers about your need for continuous SR-22 coverage.