proof of insurance after a suspension (SR-22)
Proof of financial responsibility (see list below) is required from the first day of your suspension or revocation and is required for two years. Failing to show or maintain proof of financial responsibility suspends your license and registrations.
Methods for proving financial responsibility
When you receive your suspension or revocation notice, file proof of financial responsibility in one of these methods:
- Have your Iowa-authorized insurance company file SR-22 (AAMVA Uniform Financial Responsibility Form) with the Iowa DOT.
- File a surety bond, cash or securities equal to $55,000 with a surety company and provide proof to the Iowa DOT.
- If you drive for an employer who owns a fleet of motor vehicles, your employer's insurance carrier can certify proof by completing SR-23 (AAMVA Uniform Financial Responsibility Form) in your company's name. This covers you while driving your employer's vehicles only.
- Proof can be given for you to operate a vehicle owned by a person who is issued a certificate of self-insurance by the Iowa DOT. The self-insured must give the Iowa DOT a letter authorizing you to drive the certificate holder's vehicle.
- To operate a vehicle owned by someone who has truck operator, motor carrier, liquid transport carrier, or interstate commerce carrier authority issued by the Iowa DOT's Motor Carrier Services, the permit owner must send an authorization to the Iowa DOT granting you permission to drive the vehicle(s) covered by the permit.
Limitations
You can only drive and register vehicles (including motorcycles) that are listed on your SR-22 (AAMVA Uniform Financial Responsibility Form). Motorcycles are covered under a separate policy.
If you are not eligible for a driver’s license, you still need to have any vehicles registered in your name listed on your SR-22 (AAMVA Uniform Financial Responsibility Form).
Non-Iowa resident
If you were suspended in Iowa and currently live in another state, you cannot operate or register any vehicle in Iowa until all reinstatement requirements are met.
A non-Iowa resident who applies for a non-Iowa driver's license and is required to have proof of financial responsibility may complete the Residency Statement form. The form must also be completed by a driver's license official from your state of residence. The completed form can be submitted by email or mail to the addresses below.
Email: driver.services@iowadot.us
Mail:
Iowa Department of Transportation
P.O. Box 9204
Des Moines, Iowa 50306-9204