Cheapest SR-22 Car Insurance in California (2024)

Mercury 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.

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.

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.

MoneyGeek found that these insurers provide the cheapest SR-22 insurance in California for non-owner drivers:

• Farmers: $748 per year
• Travelers: $797 per year

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.

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.

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.

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:

After a driving violation, you should follow these steps to secure car insurance coverage:

1. Find an insurance provider that covers drivers with traffic violations.
2. Buy insurance that meets the minimum liability requirements set by the state of California.
3. 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.

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.

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.