The exact amount of time a lapse in car insurance stays on your record can vary depending on the insurance company and potentially your state’s reporting requirements. However, there’s a general range to keep in mind:
- Minimum reporting period: Car insurance lapses are typically reported for at least six months. This means it can negatively impact your insurance rates for at least that long.
Here’s a breakdown of some potential consequences:
- Rate increases: Even a short lapse (less than 30 days) can lead to higher rates, though the increase might be minimal. Longer lapses can result in significant rate hikes (up to 48% or more).
- SR-22 requirement: In some cases, after a long lapse (over 60 days depending on your state), you might need to file an SR-22 form with your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) for several years. This form proves you have the minimum required car insurance coverage.
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