If you are asking do I need an SR22 to reinstate my license in Minnesota, the answer depends on why yourdriving privileges were suspended or revoked and what conditions the state has placed on reinstatement. Minnesota does not require an SR22 in every suspension case, but it is commonly required when proof of financial responsibility is part of the reinstatement process.
At a Glance:
- Not required in all cases: SR22 is typically only required when proof of financial responsibility is mandated by the state.
- Common in DWI-related suspensions: If your license was revoked due to a DWI or a first-time DUI, the state often mandates an SR22 filing as a condition of getting your license back.
- Linked to high-risk status: SR22 filings are often associated with drivers categorized as high-risk due to certain offenses.
- State-imposed conditions vary: Your reinstatement requirements will depend on your driving record and the nature of your violation.
Understanding when an SR22 is required, how it works, and how long it must be maintained can help you avoid delays or additional suspensions.
What Is an SR22 and How Does It Work?
An SR22 is a certificate of financial responsibility filed by an insurance company with theMinnesota Department of Public Safety. It confirms that a driver has an active insurance policy that meets the state’s minimum liability coverage requirements. This is separate from no-fault insurance basics, which cover your own medical costs regardless of who caused the accident. An SR22 is not an insurance policy itself, but a filing attached to an existing policy.
Key facts about SR22 filings in Minnesota include:
- Not a separate insurance policy: The SR22 is a form connected to an auto insurance policy, not a standalone type of coverage.
- Filed by the insurer: The insurance company, not the driver, submits the SR22 to the state.
- Used to verify compliance: The filing allows the state to confirm that required insurance coverage remains active.
- Subject to cancellation reporting: If coverage lapses or is canceled, the insurer must notify the state.
The purpose of an SR22 requirement is to ensure continuous insurance coverage for drivers who have committed certain violations or failed to maintain coverage in the past.
When an SR22 Is Required in Minnesota
Minnesota does not require an SR22 for every driver’s license suspension. Whether it is required depends on the reason for the suspension and the conditions imposed by the Department of Public Safety or the court.
An SR22 may be required in situations such as:
- Driving without required auto insurance
- License suspension or revocation related to a DWI charges Minnesota
- Driving while license privileges are suspended or revoked
- Repeated traffic violations within a short period
- Failure to maintain insurance after a prior violation
The official suspension or revocation notice issued by the Minnesota Department of Public Safety will specify whether an SR22 filing is required for reinstatement.
Minnesota’s Minimum Insurance Requirements
To satisfy an SR22 requirement, a driver must carry at least the minimum liability insurance required by Minnesota law. As of 2026, these minimum limits are:
- $30,000 for bodily injury to one person
- $60,000 for bodily injury per accident
- $10,000 for property damage
If a driver does not own a vehicle, Minnesota still allows compliance through a non‑owner insurance policy, which provides liability coverage while driving vehicles not owned by the policyholder. This type of policy can also include an SR22 filing if required.
6 Steps to Reinstating a License With an SR22
The process for reinstating a driver’s license varies depending on the type of suspension, but when an SR22 is required, the steps generally follow this sequence:
- Complete the required suspension or revocation period
- Obtain an insurance policy that meets Minnesota’s minimum liability requirements
- Request that the insurer file an SR22 certificate with the Minnesota Department of Public Safety
- Pay all required reinstatement and filing fees
- Submit any additional documents required by the court or Department of Public Safety
- Receive confirmation that driving privileges have been reinstated
Each step must be completed correctly. Reinstatement will not occur until all conditions are satisfied.
How Long an SR22 Must Be Maintained
In many Minnesota cases, an SR22 filing must be maintained for three years, though the exact duration depends on the violation and any court‑ordered conditions. During this period, continuous insurance coverage is required.
If insurance coverage lapses for any reason:
- The insurer must notify the state
- Driving privileges may be suspended again
- The SR22 period may restart or be extended
Maintaining uninterrupted coverage is critical to avoiding additional penalties.
How to Confirm Whether You Need an SR22
To determine whether an SR22 is required in your specific case, you can:
- Review your suspension or revocation notice from the Minnesota Department of Public Safety
- Check your driving status through the Minnesota Driver and Vehicle Services system
- Contact the Department of Public Safety directly for clarification
The state’s notice will identify all reinstatement requirements, including insurance filings, fees, and deadlines.
Common Misunderstandings About SR22 Filings
SR22 requirements are often misunderstood. Clarifying these points can help prevent confusion:
- An SR22 does not guarantee license reinstatement by itself
- Filing an SR22 does not replace the need to pay reinstatement fees
- An SR22 does not provide additional insurance coverage beyond the policy limits
- Canceling coverage early can result in new suspensions
Understanding these details helps ensure compliance with state requirements.
What to Know Before Moving Forward
If your license has been suspended or revoked, confirming whether an SR22 is required should be one of your first steps. Requirements vary by case, and incorrect assumptions can lead to delays or further penalties.
Here are key points to keep in mind:
- An SR22 is required only in certain Minnesota license reinstatement cases
- The filing must be submitted by an insurance company, not the driver
- Coverage must meet state minimum liability limits
- Continuous coverage is required for the full filing period
- Any lapse in insurance can result in additional suspension
Understanding and following the reinstatement process carefully—often with the guidance of a professional attorney—can help you regain driving privileges without unnecessary complications.
Talk to a Criminal Defense Attorney About Your Next Steps
If you’re navigating a license suspension and wondering whether an SR22 is required, it’s important to understand your obligations and avoid additional legal complications. Every case is different, especially when past offenses or DWI-related issues are involved. A professional attorney can help you confirm your requirements, review your reinstatement options, and assist with any criminal or administrative consequences that may apply.
The Law Offices of Josh Johnson focuses exclusively on criminal defense in Minnesota. If your license suspension involves a criminal charge, such as DWI, driving after revocation, or driving without insurance, reach out today for a free consultation. We’ll walk you through your options and help you make informed decisions moving forward.
