---
title: "What is the Illinois SR-22 insurance requirement?"
description: "SR-22 is a certificate of financial responsibility that an insurance carrier files directly with the Illinois Secretary of State proving the driver carries minimum liability coverage. Illinois..."
url: https://chicagoduilawyer.net/faq-items/what-is-the-illinois-sr-22-insurance-requirement/
date: 2026-07-08
modified: 2026-07-08
author: "Chicago DUI Lawyer"
type: faq
lang: en
---

# What is the Illinois SR-22 insurance requirement?

SR-22 is a certificate of financial responsibility that an insurance carrier files directly with the Illinois Secretary of State proving the driver carries minimum liability coverage. Illinois requires SR-22 for three years from the date of reinstatement or issuance of a Restricted Driving Permit following a DUI. Any lapse in coverage triggers an automatic suspension until a new SR-22 is filed. Not every carrier writes SR-22 policies, so switching insurers may be necessary. Premiums typically rise. A Chicago DUI lawyer explains timing so the SR-22 is on file before hearing day, since Secretary of State reinstatement will not issue without it.