Washington State SR-22 Insurance (2026): Cost & Cheapest Carriers After a DUI
Washington State requires SR-22 insurance after a DUI — generally for 3 years from the date you become eligible for reinstatement. The filing fee is small; the premium surcharge is the real cost. Comparing carriers before you commit is the most effective way to reduce what you pay during Washington’s IID and SR-22 overlap period.
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Washington SR-22 at a glance
| What it is | Certificate your insurer files with WA DOL proving you carry minimum liability coverage |
| How long | Generally 3 years from the date you become eligible for reinstatement (WA DOL) |
| Clock starts | Reinstatement eligibility date — confirm your specific start date with WA DOL |
| Filing fee | $15–25 (the certificate; the premium surcharge is the real cost) |
| Typical premium, first DUI | ~$120–185/mo vs. ~$65–95 for a clean-record driver |
| Minimum liability limits | 25/50/10 ($25k bodily injury / $50k per crash / $10k property damage) |
| If it lapses | WA DOL notified → driving privileges affected → reinstatement required |
How much SR-22 costs in Washington
The filing fee is only $15–25. A first-DUI Washington driver typically pays $120–185/month for minimum coverage, versus $65–95 with a clean record. Note that Washington’s IID term runs alongside the SR-22 period for many drivers — the combined cost of the IID device ($60–100/month + $21/month state fee) and SR-22 premium makes comparison shopping at the start especially valuable. Over 3 years, the difference between the cheapest and most expensive SR-22 carrier can exceed $2,500.
Cheapest SR-22 carriers in Washington
| Carrier | Notes |
|---|---|
| State Farm | Often the most competitive standard carrier for a first DUI in Washington |
| Progressive Specialty | Strong non-standard market; frequently competitive after DUI |
| PEMCO | Pacific Northwest regional carrier; competitive for WA drivers |
| Bristol West / Kemper Specialty | Non-standard carriers that routinely write SR-22 policies |
Availability and pricing depend on your driving record, county, and vehicle. Compare multiple carriers before buying.
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How to file an SR-22 in Washington
- Confirm your reinstatement eligibility date with WA DOL — the 3-year SR-22 clock starts from that date.
- Buy a policy from a carrier that writes SR-22s in Washington.
- Request the SR-22 filing — your insurer submits to WA DOL electronically, typically same day.
- Keep the policy active without any lapse for the full 3 years. Confirm renewal dates annually.
Still need your interlock sorted? Washington is all-offender — every DUI requires an IID (1-year minimum for first offense). The IID Revolving Account covers up to $80/month for qualifying indigent drivers. Final 180 consecutive days must be violation-free. Three WSP-certified national providers serve the state. See Washington DUI interlock requirements, IIL, and indigent assistance →
Washington SR-22 FAQ
How long do I need SR-22 in Washington State?
Generally 3 years from the date you become eligible for reinstatement, per WA DOL guidance. Confirm your specific start date with WA DOL — the clock begins at reinstatement eligibility, which may differ from your conviction date.
How much does SR-22 raise my insurance in Washington?
The filing fee is $15–25. A first-DUI driver typically pays $120–185/month versus $65–95 for a clean record. Washington drivers also carry the IID cost simultaneously ($60–100/month device + $21/month state fee) — comparing SR-22 carriers matters especially here given the combined cost burden.
Do I need a car to get an SR-22 in Washington?
No. A non-owner SR-22 policy satisfies the WA DOL filing requirement without owning a vehicle. Compare non-owner SR-22 quotes →
What happens if my SR-22 lapses in Washington?
WA DOL is notified, your driving privileges are affected, and reinstatement fees apply. Set up autopay and confirm your renewal date each year — especially important while also managing IID compliance obligations.
Do I also need an ignition interlock in Washington?
Yes — Washington is all-offender. Every DUI conviction requires an IID (minimum 1 year for first offense; 5 years for second; 10 years for third). The final 180 consecutive days must be violation-free. See our full Washington DUI interlock guide.
Sources:
WA DOL — Ignition Interlock Device;
RCW 46.20.720; 46.20.385.
Last verified August 2026.
Advertising disclosure: We may be compensated when you request quotes through our links. Content is informational only — not insurance or legal advice. Verify SR-22 requirements with WA DOL or a licensed insurance agent.