Non-Owner’s SR22 Auto Insurance In Hawaii?

Reader’s Question:

Is an SR22 in Hawaii accepted in any other state?

Mark

Honolulu, HI

There are two possible situations that may trigger the SR22 requirement in the State of Hawaii. Firstly, it could be a court-ordered requirement following a serious traffic violation such as driving while intoxicated (DWI). An SR22 needs to be filed by the auto insurance company to the Hawaii Department of Vehicles, so that the policyholder’s driver’s license may be reinstated. Secondly, individuals who do not own a car but frequently rent or borrow one still need to show proof of auto insurance as per Hawaii’s financial responsibility laws. Having the SR22 is the most typical way of showing to the state that auto insurance requirements have been met.

So, regarding your question, we need to know first why you have the SR22. If it was directed by the state because of a severe traffic violation, then you may need to inquire about your driving restrictions from Hawaii’s Department of Motor Vehicles. If you have non-owners’ SR22 and have not been convicted of any traffic violation, then you may be able to use it in other states.

Bear in mind, though, that traffic citations in other states will be reported to your licensing state, so you may want to be very careful when driving out of state.