Because Alaska has some of the toughest drunk driving laws in the country, a conviction for driving under the influence of alcohol is likely to expose you to a host of legal penalties. You may also encounter significant life consequences after a DUI conviction. Paying more for proof of car insurance is a common one.
An SR-22 is a form you file with the Alaska Division of Motor Vehicles to show you have at least the minimum required car insurance. If you fail to keep your policy current or cancel your SR-22 policy, your insurer will notify the state.
When does state law require SR-22 insurance?
If you have a DUI conviction, Alaska law is likely to require you to submit an SR-22 certificate to the Division of Motor Vehicles. The same is usually true if you refuse to submit to chemical testing during a DUI stop.
How long does the SR-22 requirement last?
Whether your SR-22 requirement stems from a DUI conviction or from refusing chemical testing, it is likely to follow you for the foreseeable future. The exact length of the requirement, though, depends on how many offenses you have committed.
For a first-time offense, the requirement lasts for five years. A second-time offense lengthens the requirement to 10 years, and a third-time one to 20. Fourth and subsequent offenses result in a lifetime SR-22 obligation.
Do you have to own a car to obtain SR-22 insurance?
If you must comply with the SR-22 requirement but do not own a car, you probably still must obtain the insurance to drive in Alaska. Therefore, if you have a DUI conviction in your past or have refused chemical testing, you should ask your insurer about non-owner SR-22 coverage.
