What happens if my SR-22 policy is cancelled in Texas?

What happens in Texas when an SR-22 is cancelled or lapses?

The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) states that the driving privilege and vehicle registration of a person in Texas may be suspended when DPS is notified that the SR-22 on file was cancelled, terminated or lapsed and a new SR-22 was not filed before the cancellation.¹ DPS states that the insurance provider automatically notifies DPS when an SR-22 is cancelled, terminated or lapses.¹ The Texas Transportation Code states that a policy certified to DPS may not be terminated before the sixth day after the date DPS receives notice of the termination, except when a later certified policy replaces it.² Part of the DPS wording on the suspension reads:

The Department receives notification that the SR-22 on file has been cancelled, terminated or lapsed, and a new SR-22 has not been filed prior to the cancellation of the original policy.

What fees and penalties follow a lapsed SR-22 in Texas?

Consequence	What the source says
Reinstatement fee for a safety responsibility suspension (DPS)	$1003
Reinstatement after the coverage lapses (DPS)	new SR-22 and $100 fee5
A person drives a vehicle they own without required evidence (Transportation Code)	a fine of up to $500, up to 6 months in county jail, or both4, for a misdemeanor offense

Can a vehicle registration stay unsuspended in Texas if proof is filed?

The Transportation Code states that after a license suspension or revocation on conviction, DPS, unless otherwise required by law, may not suspend a vehicle registration if the person files and maintains evidence of financial responsibility with the department for each motor vehicle registered in the person’s name.⁶

Next step

The agency’s own explanation is on the DPS SR-22 frequently asked questions. This site’s Texas filing lookup tool lists what follows a given situation.