Though often referred to as 'SR-22 insurance,' an SR-22 is actually a form that certifies you have a car insurance policy meeting California's minimum liability requirements. California law requires drivers convicted of serious offenses, such as a DUI, to file an SR-22 to reinstate their license. Once you file an SR-22, insurers typically consider you a higher risk, which can lead to increased insurance premiums.
SR-22 in California
California's per-accident SR-22 requirements include $15,000 for personal injury ($30,000 for two or more persons) and $5,000 for property damage protection.
Updated: November 2, 2024
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Key Takeaways
CSAA provides California's most affordable SR-22 insurance, with average rates of $40 per month for minimum coverage. On the other hand, National General charges around $127 per month for full coverage.
The average cost of SR-22 insurance in California is approximately $105 per month for minimum coverage and $302 per month for full coverage.
Farmers offers the cheapest non-owner SR-22 insurance in California, with rates averaging $748 per year or $62 per month.
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What Is SR-22 Insurance in California?
California SR-22 Requirements
An SR-22 form is required for three years after serious driving violations and serves as proof to California authorities that you meet the state's minimum liability coverage requirements. This filing is required for drivers with severe violations like DUIs or driving without insurance.
Form | Requirements |
---|---|
SR-22 |
|
Effective January 1, 2025, Senate Bill 1107 increases the minimum financial responsibility requirement for private passenger vehicles to: |
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Cheapest SR-22 Car Insurance in California
Across coverage levels, CSAA has the cheapest SR-22 insurance for most California drivers. The provider's $40 per month minimum liability rate is over 68% less expensive than the $125 state average, amounting to an estimated annual savings of $1,020.
For drivers seeking full coverage SR-22 insurance, National General's $127 per month average rate is the cheapest option in the state.
CSAA | $40 | $138 |
National General | $66 | $127 |
Mercury | $85 | $210 |
Progressive | $88 | $220 |
Capital Insurance Group | $89 | $215 |
Farmers | $94 | $335 |
GEICO | $95 | $252 |
Kemper | $106 | $279 |
AAA | $126 | $254 |
Travelers | $133 | $360 |
Chubb | $134 | $329 |
State National | $138 | $333 |
Nationwide | $165 | $404 |
State Farm | $168 | $422 |
Hartford | $215 | $477 |
Allstate | $254 | $482 |
Cheapest Non-Owner SR-22 Insurance in California
With an average rate of $62 per month or $748 annually, Farmers offers the most budget-friendly option for non-owner SR-22 insurance in California. This type of insurance is ideal for drivers who need an SR-22 but don’t own a car, allowing them to satisfy the state’s minimum liability coverage requirements.
Below is a list of providers offering affordable non-owner SR-22 insurance in California, along with their average rates for minimum coverage plans:
Farmers | $748 | $62 |
Travelers | $797 | $66 |
State Farm | $806 | $67 |
Progressive | $881 | $73 |
Nationwide | $881 | $73 |
GEICO | $885 | $74 |
Kemper | $980 | $82 |
How Much Is SR-22 Insurance in California?
The average cost of car insurance in California for drivers with an SR-22 is $1,496 per year for minimum coverage, which is 138% more expensive than the state's average annual rate of $629 for drivers with a clean record.
The average cost for full coverage SR-22 car insurance in California is $3,628 per year, which is 139% higher than the state's average rate of $1,518 for drivers without violations.
Full Coverage | $302 | $3,628 |
Minimum Coverage | $125 | $1,496 |
California insurers typically charge a one-time filing fee for an SR-22, usually ranging from $25 to $50. This fee is separate from your insurance premiums. Additionally, the DMV may charge over $125 to reissue your driver’s license and reinstate driving privileges, depending on the severity of the violation.
Average Cost of SR-22 Car Insurance in California by Violation
It's the specific violation you're convicted of—such as a DUI, traffic ticket or accident—that raises your insurance costs, not the SR-22 form itself. Below, you can compare SR-22 insurance rates in California for common violations across different age groups, along with average rates for drivers with clean records.
- At-fault Accident
- Clean
- DUI
- Speeding Ticket
- 22-29
- 30-59
- 60 +
Full Coverage | $2,354 | $196 |
State Minimum Liability Only | $957 | $80 |
California SR-22 Car Insurance Laws
An SR-22, also known as a 'certificate of financial responsibility,' is often mistaken for an insurance policy, but it’s actually a certification filed by your insurer. This form confirms to state officials that you carry enough liability insurance to meet the reinstatement requirements under California’s Financial Responsibility law.
Why Do You Need SR-22 Insurance in California?
In California, state law mandates an SR-22 for drivers involved in serious traffic offenses. This form is essential for demonstrating that you have the required liability insurance coverage, which is necessary to restore or maintain your driving privileges. Drivers convicted of violations such as DUIs, reckless driving or driving without insurance are usually ordered by the court to file an SR-22:
Serious Traffic Offenses
Serious traffic offenses — such as reckless driving or DUI — can result in the requirement to file SR-22 insurance.
Driving Without Insurance
You may have to file an SR-22 if you get caught driving without insurance in California, especially if it's happened multiple times or you caused an accident without insurance.
Driving With a Revoked License
If you've been caught driving with a suspended or revoked license in California, you may be required to file an SR-22 to reinstate your driving privileges.
How Long Do You Need an SR-22 in California?
California typically requires an SR-22 certificate for three years following your first offense. However, for second or third convictions, especially for offenses like DUIs, the requirement can extend to five years and, in some severe cases, up to 10 years.
California SR-22 Rules
Along with staying in compliance with California's state minimum coverage laws for three years, there are additional rules that drivers with an SR-22 in California should be aware of:
- Fees: To regain your driving privileges, you must provide proof of minimum liability insurance through an SR-22 filing and pay a reinstatement fee.
- Insurers can drop you: After filing an SR-22, your current insurer may cancel your policy or refuse to renew it, requiring you to find a new provider.
- Compliance: You must maintain continuous coverage throughout the SR-22 period. Insurers are required to notify the state of any policy lapses, which can result in penalties or suspension of your license.
- Relocation: If you move out of California, you must still maintain your SR-22 filing with the state. Your insurer can assist with out-of-state filings if required.
- Cancellation: Once you've fulfilled the SR-22 requirement, your insurer will notify the California DMV that your obligation is satisfied, and the SR-22 can be removed.
How to Get SR-22 Car Insurance in California
Drivers in California with serious violations, such as reckless driving or driving without a license, must file an SR-22. Failing to do so can result in additional penalties, including the suspension of your license. Follow these steps to file an SR-22 in California:
- 1
Contact your insurance provider
Get in touch with your insurance provider to request an SR-22 filing. Since it manages your current policy, it can easily add the form to your coverage.
- 2
Confirm minimum coverage requirements
Make sure your policy satisfies California's required minimum liability coverage of 15/30/5 to comply with SR-22 conditions. If needed, your insurer can adjust your policy to meet these standards.
- 3
Pay the SR-22 filing fee
Most insurers in California charge a one-time fee to file an SR-22, which typically ranges from $25 to $50.
- 4
Verify filing with your insurer
Once the fee is paid, your insurance company will submit the SR-22 on your behalf. Double-check to ensure the form has been properly filed and all fees are covered.
- 5
Maintain your policy and check for notifications
To avoid penalties or further legal issues, keep your insurance active and verify with your provider that the SR-22 remains valid for the required three-year period.
Drivers with a history of violations may want to explore non-standard auto insurance. While typically more expensive than standard coverage, it provides insurance options for those who face challenges securing a policy elsewhere.
How to Find Cheap SR-22 Quotes in California
High-risk drivers in California may encounter fewer insurance companies willing to provide coverage, resulting in higher premiums and fewer options. To secure the most affordable SR-22 insurance quotes in California, consider the following recommendations:
Tip | Description |
---|---|
Complete DUI classes or programs | Enrolling in state-approved DUI programs demonstrates a commitment to safer driving, which some insurers might reward with reduced premiums. |
Look for discounts | Even with a DUI on your record, you may still be eligible for discounts. Ask your insurer about savings for bundling policies, completing defensive driving courses, installing safety features or opting for electronic billing and full payments. |
Compare car insurance quotes | Since not all insurers offer SR-22 insurance, premiums can be higher due to limited options and increased risk. Comparing quotes from multiple providers can help you find more competitive rates. |
Check for high-risk programs | Certain insurers offer specialized programs for high-risk drivers, which can provide more affordable rates and coverage options tailored to your needs. |
Adjust your coverage | Consider adjusting your coverage to fit your budget. Increasing deductibles or reducing optional coverages can lower your monthly premiums, though it’s important to ensure you’re not underinsured. |
Consider non-owner SR-22 insurance | If you don’t own a vehicle, non-owner SR-22 insurance is often a more cost-effective way to meet California’s SR-22 requirements. |
Non-Owner SR-22 Insurance in California
Non-owner car insurance provides liability coverage for individuals who drive frequently but don’t own a vehicle. It offers protection when you drive someone else’s car, ensuring that you meet California’s liability requirements.
After purchasing a non-owner policy, your insurance company can file an SR-22 form to help you comply with California law and reinstate your license. The SR-22 requirement typically lasts for three years, during which continuous coverage is essential.
Non-owner policies are ideal for those who rent cars frequently or drive for rideshare services, as they cover third-party injuries and property damage in the event of an at-fault accident. Additionally, non-owner car insurance in California is generally more affordable than standard auto insurance. To find the best rates, it's wise to compare quotes from multiple insurers.
SR-22 Insurance in California: Bottom Line
Californians who have committed severe driving offenses must file an SR-22 to prove they have the state's minimum required liability coverage. Drivers are typically required to maintain the SR-22 for three years, but the period can extend for more serious or repeat offenses. Although SR-22 holders face higher insurance rates, there are still several affordable car insurance providers in California available for those with SR-22s.
California SR-22: FAQ
Here are some answers to commonly asked questions about SR-22 certifications in California:
What are the cheapest SR-22 car insurance options in California?
California's cheapest SR-22 car insurance options include CSAA, with an average monthly premium of $40, and National General at $66 per month.
How much does filing an SR-22 increase car insurance rates in California, on average?
Filing an SR-22 increases car insurance rates in California by $73 per month. The monthly average cost for drivers is $125 for SR-22 insurance, compared to $52 for those with a clean record.
How long do you need to have an SR-22 in California?
In California, you are required to maintain an SR-22 for a period of three years. If you fail to keep your coverage active during this time, the SR-22 period will reset, potentially leading to reinstatement fees and additional penalties, including the suspension of your driver’s license.
California SR-22 Car Insurance: Methodology
MoneyGeek analyzed 352,910 quotes from 18 companies across 596 ZIP codes to determine the average cost of car insurance premiums for drivers of various profiles and needs in California.
California Driver Profile
We collected data for a sample driver with the following attributes:
- 40-year-old male
- Driving record with a DUI or an at-fault accident causing $1,000 to $1,999 in property damage
- 2012 Toyota Camry LE
- 12,000 miles driven annually
Coverage Levels and Deductibles
We gathered quotes for minimum coverage insurance policies to help motorists find the cheapest SR-22 insurance for their desired coverage level. For the most affordable minimum coverage policy, quotes were based on California's minimum coverage car insurance requirements with the following liability limits:
- $15,000 for injury/death to one person
- $30,000 for injury/death to more than one person
- $5,000 for damage to property
For the most affordable policy with comprehensive and collision coverage — also referred to as a full coverage policy — we used the following limits with a $1,000 deductible:
- $100,000 bodily injury liability per person
- $300,000 bodily injury liability per accident
- $100,000 property damage liability per accident
Learn more about MoneyGeek's car insurance methodology.
About Mark Fitzpatrick
Mark Fitzpatrick is a Licensed Property and Casualty Insurance Producer and MoneyGeek's Head of Insurance. He has analyzed the insurance market for over five years, conducting original research and creating personalized content for every kind of buyer. He has been quoted in several insurance-related publications, including CNBC, NBC News and Mashable.
Fitzpatrick earned a master’s degree in economics and international relations from Johns Hopkins University and a bachelor’s degree from Boston College. He is passionate about using his knowledge of economics and insurance to bring transparency around financial topics and help others feel confident in their money moves.
sources
- California DMV. "Insurance Requirements." Accessed November 2, 2024.