SR-22 in Montana: What You Need to Know

Montana requires SR-22 insurance for three years in most cases. Failure to pay premiums can make the period longer.
Written by Tom Hindle
Reviewed by Kathleen Flear
In Montana, an SR-22 form is required for three years after a drunk driving offense, or for failing to maintain adequate coverage.
SR-22s are required for drivers who have committed certain violations. They’re often associated with drunk driving, but Montana can request that drivers obtain an SR-22 for other reasons, too.
Those often happen after a driver has their license suspended, or is deemed unfit to drive. The SR-22 itself is a document submitted by an insurer guaranteeing that a driver has the minimum required insurance in order to stay on the road.
Here's what you need to know about SR-22s in Montana, from the
car insurance
shopping app
Jerry
. We'll also show you the easiest way to find
cheap car insurance in Montana.
So, read on to find out exactly how SR-22s work in Montana.

What is an SR-22 in Montana?

In Montana, an SR-22 is a certificate submitted to the DMV verifying that you have the necessary insurance to stay on the road following a major incident. Basically, it’s a guarantee that you’re still safe to drive despite whatever rule you may have violated.
In most cases, Montana asks for an SR-22 after your license has been
suspended or revoked.
You'll usually be required to keep it for three years following a major incident, which can include but are not limited to:
  • Reckless driving
  • Hit and run
  • Driving without insurance
  • Tallying too many demerit points on your license
If you're convicted of one of those, you’ll need your insurer to guarantee minimum liability coverage. In Montana the requirements are:
  • $25,000 for bodily injury or death for one person
  • $50,000 for bodily injury or death for two or more persons
  • $20,000 for property damages
These are
Montana's minimum requirements
, though. More coverage is recommended to keep you protected in case of an expensive accident.
Key Takeaway you’ll need an SR-22 for three years after having your license revoked or suspended in Montana.
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Who needs an SR-22 in Montana?

Drivers who have committed a serious driving offense, or picked up too many points on their license will need SR-22 insurance in Montana.
Ultimately, it’s up to the state government to decide if you need an SR-22. While there are certain guidelines, it’s handled on a case-by-case basis. You’ll usually need one for three years.

How do you get an SR-22 in Montana?

Getting SR-22 insurance in Montana isn’t difficult—the DMV will usually inform you that
you need an SR-22
to remain on the road. Once you’ve received that notice, you must let your insurance provider know. In Montana, they’ll complete the process for you—as long as they offer SR-22s.
There are a few technicalities to keep in mind, though. License suspensions or revocations are often the result of criminal charges—so you’ll definitely have to adhere to the legal processes there first. You may also have to pay a license reinstatement fee.
Some insurance providers simply don’t accept SR-22s, either. They might deem you
too big of a risk
, or just not make them available as company policy.
Key Takeaway Your insurance provider will file an SR-22 for you in Montana, but you might have to try Jerry to find a new provider if your original insurer won’t cover you.

How much does an SR-22 cost in Montana?

Most insurers charge a small fee of $15-25. The exact figure depends on the state and the provider.
However, there are other costs to keep in mind. Some states ask for pricey driver’s license reinstatement fees—sometimes more than $100. Furthermore, there are fines and legal fees that might come with a conviction for a criminal offense.
Your insurance premiums might change significantly, too. Average yearly costs for SR-22 holders tend to be higher than for those with relatively
clean driving records
. You’ll lose any good driver perks or discounts you may have racked up, too.
Ultimately, SR-22 insurance is expensive.
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How does an SR-22 impact your insurance in Montana?

You can expect your insurance prices to take a serious hike.
A conviction for a serious moving violation is one of the worst things that can happen to your insurance costs. And the other reasons for needing an SR-22, such as racking up too many demerit points, don’t look too great either.
It’s good that your insurer might be able to get you back behind a wheel, but it’ll come at a
significant premium increase
. The exact figure will vary, but some states see a hike of up to 50% or more.
You may have to purchase a new insurance package altogether. Some companies simply don’t offer SR-22s, especially if you’re considered a major risk.
There is some good news, though! If you follow the rules and keep an excellent driving record for the duration of your SR-22 probation, you will be allowed to drive relatively normally once it expires. This should bring your premiums back to standard pre-SR-22 levels.

How to find cheap car insurance

SR-22s aren’t great for your driving record or bank account. But they’re not the end of the world. You can still find a good car insurance package at a price that suits you. To find the best deal, try
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"​​I can’t get over how easy
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