SR-22 After a DWI in Missouri: What to Expect

SR-22 · Updated October 2026

Two tracks: the court and the license

A DWI in Missouri usually starts two separate processes:

The criminal case, handled by the court
Administrative action on your license, handled by the Department of Revenue

Your license can be suspended or revoked through the administrative process even before the court case is resolved. An attorney can advise you on the legal side; we handle the insurance.

What Missouri requires to reinstate

For alcohol-related points, BAC and administrative alcohol suspensions, the Department of Revenue's published requirements include:

A $45 reinstatement fee
SR-22 proof of insurance for two years from the start of the suspension or revocation
Proof you completed SATOP, the Substance Awareness Traffic Offender Program
An ignition interlock device if your record shows more than one alcohol- or drug-related enforcement contact, or for some first-time offenders (for example, BAC of .15 or higher, or a crash with injury or property damage), maintained for at least six months
Retaking the driver exam after a one-year revocation

Refusing a chemical test carries similar requirements. Check the DOR reinstatement chart for your specific action. See also license reinstatement and the SR-22.

Driving before you're eligible

Missouri's Limited Driving Privilege isn't available for suspensions resulting from a DWI or BAC conviction or an administrative alcohol suspension. Those drivers may be eligible for a Restricted Driving Privilege (RDP), which has its own requirements, often including an ignition interlock. Limited and restricted driving privileges.

Will your current insurer keep you?

Some will, at a higher price. Some will non-renew at the end of the term. Some don't file SR-22s at all. Don't wait to find out at renewal. Call us early so you have options lined up.

What a DWI does to your premium

A DWI is one of the most heavily rated violations in auto insurance. Expect a significant increase that varies widely between companies, which makes comparison essential. The increase usually eases as the violation ages and you keep a clean record.

If you no longer have a car

A non-owner SR-22 can satisfy the requirement, usually for less than insuring a vehicle. If an ignition interlock is required, it must be installed on any vehicle you operate.

This week

Find your Department of Revenue notice and any court paperwork.
Call us with your license number and the vehicle you'll drive, if any.
Choose a policy and set up automatic payments.
We submit the SR-22 electronically.
Complete SATOP and any other requirements, and pay the reinstatement fee to the Department.

Common questions

How long do I need an SR-22 after a DWI in Missouri?

Two years from the start of the suspension or revocation, according to the Department of Revenue.

What is the reinstatement fee after a DWI in Missouri?

The Department of Revenue lists a $45 reinstatement fee for alcohol-related actions.

Can I get a hardship license after a DWI?

Not a Limited Driving Privilege, but you may be eligible for a Restricted Driving Privilege.

Can I get an SR-22 without a car after a DWI?

Yes, with a non-owner SR-22 policy.

The short version

A DWI triggers both a court case and action on your license.
Missouri requires an SR-22 for two years from the start of the suspension.
Expect a $45 fee, SATOP, and possibly an ignition interlock.
An RDP, not an LDP, is the driving option for alcohol cases.

Questions about your own situation? Call 417.206.3733 or send us your current policy. We are licensed in Missouri, Kansas and Oklahoma, and you can buy by phone without coming in.

Written by Auto Insurance Express. Reviewed by Philip Edwards, founder. Philip has run independent insurance agencies in southwest Missouri since 1997. More about the agency.

General information, not advice about your specific policy. Coverage, exclusions and eligibility are determined by the policy forms and endorsements your insurer issues, and state rules change. Confirm details with us before you rely on them.

SR-22 after a DWI in Missouri