Every major insurer can file an SR-22 — the differences are price for high-risk records, filing speed, and whether they treat you like a customer or a problem.
How the majors compare for SR-22 drivers
| Carrier type | Strength | Watch out |
|---|---|---|
| High-risk specialists (Dairyland, Bristol West, National General) | Competitive high-risk pricing, fast filings | Higher base fees; check renewal increases |
| Big nationals (GEICO, Progressive, State Farm) | Smooth digital filing, bundling discounts | Some decline or price aggressively for recent DUIs |
| Regional insurers | Local agent service | Filing speed varies; fewer online tools |
| Non-owner specialists | Cheapest route without a car | Limited physical-damage options |
What to compare beyond price
- Filing speed: same-day electronic filing is the norm at specialists.
- Renewal behaviour: ask for ‘violation decay at renewal’ examples.
- Fee load: monthly installment and admin fees add up over a 3-year term.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which company files SR-22 the fastest?
High-risk specialists typically file electronically the same day you bind. Nationals take 1–7 days. If your reinstatement appointment is close, ask for the filing confirmation number before you leave the process.
Do all insurers offer SR-22?
Most that write auto in SR-22 states do, but a few decline applicants with recent DUIs. If declined twice, go straight to the specialists rather than adding declines to your record.
Is Progressive or GEICO better for SR-22?
It depends entirely on your record and state — both price high-risk business actively. Quotes from both plus one specialist take 20 minutes and routinely differ by 30%+.
Should I use a broker for SR-22?
Brokers who specialise in high-risk auto compare many carriers at once and know filing logistics — useful if you’ve been declined or your reinstatement date is tight.