The state of Rhode Island uses the SR 22 form to help protect its citizens against problem drivers by monitoring their insurance. It requires the auto insurance company to file the SR 22 form as a proof of a problem driver’s financial responsibility, stating that his/her auto insurance liability is in effect. The state does not send notifications and it is the responsibility of the driver and the auto insurance company to submit the form as well as the renewals, to the state, if required.

WHAT IS A SR 22 FORM?

There are three different types of SR 22 forms:

  1. The Operator’s Certificate covers the financial responsibility in the case the motorist does not own a vehicle.
  2. The Owner’s Certificate covers the financial responsibility for vehicles owned by the motorist.
  3. The Operators-Owners Certificate covers financial responsibility for all the vehicles that are owned or non-owned by the motorist.

WHEN IS SR 22 REQUIRED?

The SR 22 financial responsibility Insurance form is required in the following cases:

  1. If you have any safety responsibility suspensions (Type Action 04, which involves uninsured motorists who did not pay for damages or injuries they caused). For example, if an uninsured driver was involved in an accident in the past but did not pay the requisite compensation then he or she needs to fill the SR-22.
  2. If you have any unsatisfied judgment suspensions (Type Action 06, a suspension resulting from a civil judgment entered against a driver involved in an accident that remains unsatisfied). For example, if a driver involved in an accident in the past has an unsatisfactory judgment entered against him then he or she needs to fill the SR-22.
  3. In case of revocations of license (Type Action 01 and 02).
  4. In the case of mandatory insurance supervisions.
  5. For individuals who have received more than three convictions for mandatory insurance violations.

FILING FOR THE SR-22

  1. Contact a state-authorized insurance agency like Select Insurance Group to request for an SR 22 filing.
  2. Pay the correct processing fee to the agency. The fee amount may vary between agencies. You can request an insurance quote from our Rhode Island auto insurance page and companies such as Select Insurance Group will allow you to request an SR 22 filing automatically.
  3. As per the State laws of Rhode Island, the minimum amount of coverage should be $25,000 for one person killed or injured, $50,000 for two or more persons killed or injured and $25,000 for property damage.
  4. Upon receiving the request from the agent the central office then sends the SR 22 directly to the Division of Motor Vehicles in about 30 days.
  5. If accepted, you will receive the SR 22 from the agency along with a letter from the DMV.
  6. The SR 22 has to be maintained for a minimum period determined by the court. The minimum period for which you are required to file is usually 36 months. If the motorist does not renew it at least 15 days before the expiration date the agency notifies the State. The State may then suspend the driving record of the motorist until the insurance is reinstated. So it is advisable to renew the SR 22 at least 45 days in advance.

FOR OUT OF STATE RESIDENTS

  1. If you are required to file an SR-22 in the state of Rhode Island, you will have to do so through an insurance provider that is licensed to do business in the state.