Certificate of Financial Responsibility

The certificate of financial responsibility (CFR) is essentially a vehicle liability insurance document required by the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or its equivalent in most states for insurance policies that are considered “high risk”.

The CFR holds a document number for easy identification. This number is mandatory for DMV for verification purposes. The following are the four most common forms associated with the certificate.

SR-22

The DMV may require form SR-22 for a driver to restore his driving privileges after having a car accident where he had no insurance OR for committing certain types of traffic violations, such as DUI or DWI. In some states, an SR-22 may be required for up to three years for an offense of driving without insurance or with a suspended license. The penalty is increased to five years for a DUI conviction.

There are some states that use an SR-22 as an alternative policy to make a cash deposit or to provide security as proof of being financially responsible. For example, in the state of Arizona, a driver seeking reinstatement may use an SR-22 instead of making cash or certificates of deposit worth $ 40,000.

FR-44

Here, when a person is convicted of driving under the influence of alcohol or DUI, an FR-44 form is required after the sentence is enforced. The driver must submit the form to receive the minimum amount of coverage. The states of Florida and Virginia use FR-44 form that differs from an SR-22 form in certain ways.

The FR-44 was designed to be a more severe form of punishment for those who have been convicted of a DUI or DWI that will last five years. In addition, the FR-44 is separated from any additional penalties, such as fines, jail or driver’s license suspension. It is required for the following types of convictions;

– DUI or DWI

– Condemned to drive with a license suspended for a conviction or not innocent in cases of minors

– For having violated the provisions of any federal law or ordinance, out of state or local rule similar to the above-mentioned cases.

SR-50

An SR-50 is similar to an SR-22 certificate of financial responsibility. In Indiana, the SR-50 is an additional clause for the main driver’s insurance policy. Drivers are required to have an SR-50 to restore their license. This acts as a guarantee to the Indiana DMV that the driver will remain properly insured for the established period. A restoration fee is required along with the form that must be returned to the appropriate authorities for the process to begin.

SR-26

The SR-26 only applies when the SR-22 is canceled or expired. When that happens, an SR-26 form is required that certifies that the policy has been canceled.

In the end, having the correct CFR form allows drivers who need to retain their driving privileges.

Check out our blog on top insurance companies who provide SR22 insurance. To get quotes from providers simply dial 888-886-6535.