Everything You Need To Know About Colorado SR22 Insurance for Non-Owners

Getting an SR22 filing in Colorado can be confusing, especially if you don’t own a car. SR22 insurance provides proof of insurance to the state, which is required after certain driving violations. But what if you don’t have a car? Here’s everything you need to know about getting non-owner SR22 insurance in Colorado.

What is an SR22?

• An SR22 is a form that your insurance company files with the Colorado DMV to prove you have liability insurance.
• It is required if your license is suspended or revoked, or if you’ve been convicted of serious offenses like a DUI.
• An SR22 filing is not a type of insurance policy. You need to purchase a standard auto insurance policy first.
• The SR22 shows the state that you meet minimum liability coverage requirements.

Colorado SR22 Requirements

Colorado requires all drivers to carry:

• $25,000 bodily injury liability per person
• $50,000 bodily injury liability per accident
• $15,000 property damage liability

To get an SR22 in Colorado, you’ll need a policy with at least this much coverage.

How Long Do You Need an SR22 in Colorado?

An SR22 is usually required for 3 years in Colorado. But the exact length depends on your specific violation.

• First DUI – 3 years
• Second DUI – 5 years
• Subsequent DUI – 5 years
• Driving without insurance – 3 years
• Too many points on your license – 3 years

You must maintain the SR22 and insurance during this time. If it lapses, your license will be suspended again.

Non-Owner SR22 Insurance in Colorado

Non-owner SR22 insurance is ideal if:

• You need an SR22 but don’t own a car.
• You own a car but it’s not registered in your name.
• You share a car with family members.
• You drive rental cars frequently.

With non-owner SR22 insurance:

• The policy only provides liability coverage when you drive vehicles not registered to you.
• It satisfies the SR22 requirement so you can get your license reinstated.
• No other vehicles can be insured under the policy.

How to Get Non-Owner SR22 Insurance in Colorado

Follow these steps:

1. Shop for non-owner car insurance: Get quotes from insurers like Geico, Allstate, and State Farm. Policies start around $200-$500 per year.

2. Ask for an SR22 filing: Let the insurer know you need a non-owner SR22 filing in Colorado. There may be a one-time $15-$25 fee.

3. Provide proof of insurance: Give your Colorado DMV clearance letter to the insurer as proof you need the SR22.

4. Wait for SR22 confirmation: The insurer will electronically file Form SR22 with the Colorado DMV within 1-2 weeks.

5. Pay premiums on time: Keep the policy active to maintain the SR22 filing until your suspension period ends.

Finding the Cheapest Non-Owner SR22 Insurance in Colorado

Here are some tips for getting the lowest rates:

• Compare quotes from at least 3 insurers. Rates can vary widely between companies.

• Take a defensive driving course. Completing an approved course can lower premiums.

• Raise your deductible. Opt for a higher deductible like $500 or $1,000 to reduce the premium.

• Ask about discounts. See if you qualify for any discounts like multi-policy, safe driver, good student, etc.

• Improve your credit. Insurance companies view good credit as lower risk. Maintaining a high score saves you money.

• Check rates every renewal. Shop around again when your policy renews to see if you can get a better price.

How Much Does Non-Owner SR22 Insurance Cost in Colorado?

A non-owner SR22 policy costs about $200-$500 per year for minimum liability coverage. Plus you’ll pay a one-time $15-$25 SR22 filing fee.

On average, you can expect to pay 3% more compared to standard non-owner car insurance. SR22 insurance is considered higher risk, so insurers charge more.

Your personal factors like age, driving record, and location also impact your premium. Teen drivers and those with recent violations pay the highest rates.

Penalties for Driving Without an SR22 in Colorado

It’s illegal to drive without an SR22 filing during your suspension period. The penalties for driving without insurance or an SR22 include:

• License suspension for an additional 1-year period
• 4 to 12 points on your license
• Fines up to $1,000
• Possible jail time up to 1 year

You’ll also have to re-file the SR22 form and pay all the fees again.

Alternatives to Non-Owner SR22 Insurance in Colorado

If you need to drive but can’t afford SR22 insurance, consider:

• Public transportation: Buses, trains, and rideshares can be cheaper than maintaining a policy.

• Borrowing a vehicle: Borrow a car from a family member or friend and pay them for use.

• Filing on a motorcycle: Insuring a motorcycle is typically cheaper than a car.

• Alternative modes: Walking, biking, or electric scooters are affordable options.

However, the only way to legally drive is with valid auto insurance and an SR22 filing if required.

What Happens When Your SR22 Requirement Ends?

Once your SR22 requirement ends in Colorado (usually 3 years):

• Your insurer will automatically stop filing the SR22 with the DMV.

• You can shop for regular non-owner or standard auto insurance if needed.

• The violation will remain on your driving record for another 4 years after the SR22 term ends.

• Your auto insurance rates may still be higher than before the incident due to having a violation on record.

• With a clean record after the SR22 term, your rates should gradually decrease at renewal.

Common Questions about Non-Owner SR22 Insurance in Colorado

How much is a non-owner SR22 policy in Colorado?

You can expect to pay $200-$500 per year for a non-owner SR22 policy in Colorado. Plus a one-time $15-$25 filing fee. Rates depend on your age, record, and location.

What is the cheapest non-owner SR22 insurance in Colorado?

Geico, State Farm and Progressive tend to offer the most affordable rates for Colorado non-owner SR22 policies. Compare quotes from at least three insurers.

Does my roommate need their own non-owner SR22 policy?

No, only the person required to file an SR22 needs a policy. But it can only cover the named insured when driving vehicles not registered to them.

Can I get non-owner SR22 insurance with a suspended license in Colorado?

Yes, you can still purchase a non-owner SR22 policy in Colorado even if your license is currently suspended. This satisfies the insurance filing requirement to get your license back.

How long does it take for an insurer to file the SR22 in Colorado?

Insurers electronically submit SR22 filings to the Colorado DMV within 1-2 weeks in most cases. You’ll receive an SR22 confirmation letter by mail once processed.

The Bottom Line

Driving without insurance and a valid license in Colorado can lead to serious consequences. Non-owner SR22 insurance allows you to meet state requirements and drive legally after a serious violation.

Shopping around, maintaining good credit, taking safety courses, and comparing quotes will help you find the most affordable coverage. With non-owner SR22 insurance, you can get your Colorado license reinstated quickly.