Cheapest SR-22 Car Insurance in California (2023)
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, Content DirectorMercury offers the cheapest SR-22 insurance in California for minimum coverage, priced at $796 per year. National General provides the most affordable full coverage policies, with premiums costing $1,280 per year. Farmers offers the least expensive SR-22 auto insurance for drivers who do not own cars at $748 per year.
After committing a traffic violation in California, such as a DUI, it is mandatory to obtain SR-22 insurance. While the SR-22 form itself does not directly impact insurance rates, most violations requiring an SR-22 will result in significant premium increases. However, there are still affordable options for auto insurance in California, regardless of vehicle ownership status.
Cheapest Companies for SR-22 Car Insurance in California
Cheapest Companies for SR-22 Car Insurance in California
The following providers offer the cheapest minimum coverage SR-22 insurance in California for motorists with DUIs:
- Mercury: $796 per year
- National General: $806 per year
If you’re looking for full coverage, the following insurers provide the most affordable SR-22 policies:
- National General: $1,280 per year
- Mercury: $2,010 per year
Due to the perceived increased risk of filing claims after a driving violation, car insurance premiums often increase. Here are some of the top choices for cheap SR-22 insurance in California, ranging from $796 to $2,638 annually in terms of pricing.
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What Is SR-22 in California?
SR-22 is a mandatory certificate of financial responsibility that serves as proof of having car insurance. It is not an insurance policy in itself; instead, it demonstrates compliance with the minimum liability insurance requirements.
Typically, individuals who have committed significant traffic violations require an SR-22. Some of these instances include:
- Driving without insurance
- DUI, driving while intoxicated or other major driving offenses
- Involvement in an accident with insufficient insurance coverage
The duration of the filing period for SR-22 insurance varies from state to state. Generally, it can range from one to five years, depending on the severity of the offense committed. Repeated violations often result in extended filing periods.
Your insurance provider takes care of the filing process on your behalf. They will complete the necessary form and submit it to the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Note that filing an SR-22 may increase your insurance premiums. Insurers may consider you a higher-risk driver who is more likely to be involved in accidents or file claims due to the SR-22 requirement, which indicates past violations.
Once you have met the requirements of California's financial responsibility mandate, your insurance provider must submit a Financial Responsibility Cancellation Form. This form serves as confirmation that all necessary obligations have been fulfilled. You are no longer obligated to maintain the specific financial responsibility filing, such as an SR-22.
Cheapest Companies for Non-Owner SR-22 Car Insurance in California
MoneyGeek found that these insurers provide the cheapest SR-22 insurance in California for non-owner drivers:
For those associated with the military, USAA offers an even more budget-friendly non-owner SR-22 insurance in California, with annual premiums averaging $512.
In situations where a non-owner driver's license has been revoked or suspended or if they have been held accountable for a significant traffic offense such as DUI, the submission of an SR-22 may be required. Non-owner auto insurance can assist in legally driving and reinstating one's license.
The following table shows the least expensive options in California for non-owner auto insurance. MoneyGeek identified these options by analyzing quotes from various insurance companies, with annual premiums ranging from $748 to $980.
Non-owner SR-22 insurance in California covers property damage and bodily injury caused to third parties, but it does not extend coverage for injuries sustained by you or your passengers. This type of insurance is often necessary for renters, rideshare drivers and professional drivers. Non-owner car insurance is often required for individuals who need to file an SR-22 or an FR-44 form but do not own a vehicle.
To help you find the best prices, MoneyGeek conducted research on the most affordable non-owner car insurance in California.
Average Cost of SR-22 Car Insurance in California
The average annual SR-22 insurance cost in California for a driver with a DUI is about $1,420 for minimum coverage and $3,375 for full coverage. Even minor violations like speeding or at-fault collisions may require filing an SR-22 document. Insurance companies consider individuals with traffic offenses to be higher-risk drivers.
Insurance companies adjust their prices based on statistical data and risk assessment tools, which calculate the likelihood of a driver making a claim. Increased risks associated with a customer's driving history determine an insurer's modified rates.
MoneyGeek highly recommends drivers in California who need SR-22 insurance compare insurance premiums each time they renew their policy or at least once a year. Prices for coverage with an SR-22 can vary significantly between insurance companies, making it beneficial to shop around and find the best policy for your budget.
How SR-22 Affects Car Insurance Rates in California
Filing an SR-22 insurance in California can substantially impact auto insurance costs, often resulting in higher premiums. On average, individuals required to file an SR-22 in California should anticipate an increase of $825 in their rates.
The impact on insurance premiums will vary depending on the severity of the charge, state regulations, personal driving history, the insurance company and specific circumstances. We advise consulting insurance representatives, comparing quotes from multiple companies and exploring potential discounts to find the cheapest SR-22 insurance that meets the state's financial responsibility requirements.
Car Insurance Rate Comparison Based on Driving Records in California
Annual Premium for Minimum Coverage
$595Annual Premium for Minimum Coverage
$1,420This is 139% more expensive.
Other Effects of SR-22 on Car Insurance in California
Submitting an SR-22 in California can impact your auto insurance beyond just higher rates. Here are some situations where filing an SR-22 might affect your insurance:
Limited number of insurance options
When selecting an insurance company, you may find that your options are limited as some insurers do not offer SR-22 filings. Filing an SR-22 can restrict your choices, as certain insurers may consider high-risk drivers too risky to provide coverage for.
Possible policy cancellation
In California, submitting an SR-22 insurance form can result in a policy cancellation. To prevent the cancellation of your coverage, you must meet the California SR-22 requirements and ensure ongoing compliance. This entails making timely payments, adhering to the mandated liability coverage limits and practicing safe driving habits.
Length of required filing
The duration you are required to maintain the SR-22 filing depends on the severity of the violation and the state's laws. The typical filing period in California ranges from one to three years, with some cases extending up to five years. Maintaining the SR-22 insurance throughout this period is essential, as failure to do so may result in penalties such as license suspension.
Filing fees
When filing an SR-22 in California, you may be responsible for paying filing fees. The specific amount of the SR-22 filing fee can vary depending on the insurer and the details of your case. Typically, insurance companies charge a one-time filing cost for the initial SR-22 form in California, which can range from $15 to $50.
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How to Get SR-22 Insurance in California
After a driving violation, you should follow these steps to secure car insurance coverage:
- Find an insurance provider that covers drivers with traffic violations.
- Buy insurance that meets the minimum liability requirements set by the state of California.
- Ask your insurance provider to handle the submission of an SR-22 form, cover any related expenses and keep it regularly updated.
By taking these steps, you can show the relevant authorities your commitment to taking responsibility for your driving record and maintaining sufficient insurance coverage.
The California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) may charge a reinstatement fee, a license renewal fee and any applicable penalties or fines. These fees can range from around $55 to $200 or more, depending on the reason for the license suspension or revocation. These costs are subject to change, so we recommend consulting the official California DMV website or contacting the DMV directly for the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding license reinstatement fees.
How to Get Cheaper Car Insurance in California After a DUI
Acquiring insurance coverage following a DUI often leads to an increase in rates. Insurance providers commonly perceive DUI records as significant risk factors, resulting in more expensive premiums. However, despite the higher costs, you can follow the following steps to reduce your overall SR-22 car insurance rates.
Compare quotes immediately
It would be best if you took the time to compare quotes from multiple companies when looking for car insurance after a DUI in California. Insurance providers may offer different rates and alternative underwriting standards when dealing with a DUI. You can find the most reasonable and cost-effective option by requesting quotes from various insurers.
Complete DUI classes or programs
Participating in DUI programs and classes can reduce the likelihood of future offenses, resulting in lower risk and potentially cheaper insurance rates. In California, the Department of Health Care Services (DHCS) oversees the licensing and compliance monitoring of all DUI programs through its Behavioral Health Licensing and Certification Division.
Look for discounts
Most auto insurance providers offer discounts to drivers who meet specific criteria. You may be eligible for a discount if you, for example, complete a defensive driving course, install a vehicle tracking device or maintain a clean driving record. We recommend consulting your insurance provider to determine whether you qualify for discounts.
Practice safe driving
Your insurance rates can gradually decrease by consistently driving safely, adhering to traffic regulations, avoiding new infractions and accidents and maintaining a clean driving record. The impact of a DUI on insurance premiums may diminish as you demonstrate responsible driving behavior.
Shop rates over time
It is always wise to periodically shop around and explore if you can secure a better rate, even if you already have an affordable auto insurance policy. As your driving record improves and you commit to safe driving practices, you may become eligible for lower rates with different companies.
Providers design non-standard auto insurance to cater to drivers who may face difficulties obtaining coverage from traditional insurers due to previous records or similar high-risk incidents. Non-standard auto insurance offers an option for high-risk drivers who may struggle to find coverage elsewhere, providing an alternative for individuals with limited options in the insurance market, despite typically having higher rates than regular insurance.
Frequently Asked Questions About SR-22 Insurance in California
In situations that necessitate filing an SR-22, it is crucial to have a clear understanding of your potential policy. MoneyGeek answered some frequently asked questions about SR-22 insurance in California.
About Mark Fitzpatrick

sources
- California DMV. "Reissue Fees." Accessed June 8, 2023.
- California DMV. "Suspended Registration Reinstatement." Accessed June 8, 2023.