Financial responsibility (SR-22)

What is financial responsibility?

It's proof you have a way to pay for any damages you may cause while driving.

Who needs to file proof of financial responsibility?

Anyone who has:

Been convicted of, or forfeited bail for, certain offenses.
Failed to pay judgments.
Driven or owned a vehicle involved in an accident.

What is considered acceptable proof?

You have 3 options:

SR22 Insurance written for Washington State by an approved insurance company.
- To verify the Insurance commissioner approved your insurance company, look up an agent, agency or company (fortress.wa.gov).
Certificate of deposit for at least $60,000, issued by us (DOL). See Certificate of deposit.
Liability bond for at least $60,000. You can get this from any surety or bonding company authorized to do business in Washington.

How long do I have to provide proof of financial responsibility?

In most cases, 3 years from the date you're eligible to reinstate your license. See Learn how to reinstate your license to find out how long you need to have proof of financial responsibility.