California SR-22 & High-Risk Auto Insurance
California requires 30/60/15 liability coverage and is an at-fault state.
Find SR-22 Coverage NowCalifornia at a Glance
30/60/15
Minimum liability limits, in thousands of dollars (per person / per accident / property)
At-fault
The at-fault driver's insurance pays for the damage they cause
Optional
PIP and uninsured motorist coverage are not required by law
$55
State license reinstatement fee
Source: state DMV, insurance department and statute records, verified July 2026
State Requirements
Drivers convicted of DUI, driving without insurance, repeat traffic violations, or at-fault accidents while uninsured must also file an SR-22 certificate with the California DMV. The state does not allow non-owner SR-22 policies to satisfy reinstatement requirements for drivers who own vehicles. High-risk drivers often need to carry above-minimum limits to access non-standard carrier markets.
Liability Insurance
SR-22 Insurance
Uninsured Motorist Coverage
Collision Coverage
Comprehensive Coverage
Cost Overview
$316–$620/mo
Typical monthly rate in California, drivers with an SR-22 after a DUI
Rate data: ValuePenguin and NerdWallet, 2026
See What Your SR-22 Should Really Cost
Find SR-22 Coverage NowIf your license is suspended
Restricted driver license
A restricted license is available while suspended.
A coverage lapse is reported
The state can act when your insurance lapses.
Source: state DMV, insurance department and statute records, verified July 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do I need SR-22 in California?
California requires SR-22 filing for 3 years from the date of your violation or license reinstatement, whichever is later. If your insurance lapses at any point during those 3 years, the DMV suspends your license immediately and the 3-year requirement restarts from your new reinstatement date. You must maintain continuous coverage without any gaps to complete the SR-22 period.
Can I get non-owner SR-22 insurance in California?
California does not allow non-owner SR-22 policies to satisfy reinstatement requirements if you own a vehicle registered in your name. If you own a car, you must insure it with SR-22 even if you rarely drive it. Non-owner SR-22 is only available if you have no registered vehicles and need to maintain SR-22 filing while driving borrowed or rental cars.
Which insurance companies offer SR-22 in California?
Non-standard carriers that commonly write SR-22 policies in California include state-assigned risk pools and specialized high-risk insurers. Standard carriers like State Farm, Geico, and Progressive may file SR-22 but often non-renew policies after a DUI or major violation. You will likely need to work with a broker who has access to multiple non-standard markets to find coverage.
Do I need SR-22 for a suspended license in California?
Yes, if your license was suspended for DUI, driving without insurance, negligent operator status (excessive points), or refusal to submit to chemical testing. The California DMV requires SR-22 filing before reinstating your license and continuous coverage for 3 years afterward. Suspensions for unpaid tickets or child support typically do not require SR-22.
Coverage Types
SR-22 Insurance
Certificate filed by your insurer proving you carry minimum liability coverage. Required for 3 years after DUI, suspension, or uninsured driving. Any lapse restarts the requirement and suspends your license.
Liability Insurance
Pays for injuries and property damage you cause to others. California's 15/30/5 minimums are inadequate for most accidents, and courts view low limits unfavorably in civil cases.
Uninsured Motorist Coverage
Covers your injuries and damages when hit by a driver with no insurance or insufficient limits. Protects you from out-of-pocket costs if the at-fault driver cannot pay.
Non-Standard Auto Insurance
Specialized coverage for drivers with DUIs, suspensions, violations, or lapses who cannot access standard carriers. Higher premiums and stricter terms, but often the only option for SR-22 filing.
Collision Coverage
Pays to repair your vehicle after an accident regardless of fault. Required by lenders and recommended if your car is worth more than your deductible plus 12 months of premium.
Comprehensive Coverage
Covers theft, vandalism, fire, weather, and animal strikes. California leads the nation in vehicle theft with over 200,000 stolen cars annually, making comprehensive essential in urban areas.