High-risk California drivers will need to purchase an SR-22 after being convicted of a serious traffic violation—but these forms can increase your insurance rates by 142% to 185% annually.
may be required to reinstate driving privileges. The minimum coverage options available in California hold an average cost $1,394 annually, but an SR-22 certificate will increase these rates.
There are three different types of SR-22 policies in California—owners, non-owners, and broad coverage.
Drivers with a DUI/DWI, license suspension, or major traffic violation often file for an SR-22 certificate.
A SR-22 certificate can raise your California insurance rates by 142% to 185%.
To lower insurance costs while holding a California SR-22,
in the US—and an SR-22 will increase your already high insurance premiums.
While there are companies, such as Progressive, GEICO, and National General, that offer lower rates for drivers with an SR-22 filing, your auto insurance policy will likely increase by 142% to 185%.
To help offset the impact of an SR-22 form and lower your insurance costs, the best option is to continue to compare insurance quotes from different
Review the tables below to see real estimates California drivers with an SR-22 requirement found using Jerry, the independent insurance agency and broker app:
SR-22 insurance quotes for California drivers with license suspensions
Broad coverage policy: This option will cover the financial costs for vehicles owned, and not owned, by the driver.
Most insurance providers in California will file an SR-22. To apply for an SR-22, contact your insurance agent. They will fill out and file a form on your behalf with the California Department of Motor Vehicles (California DMV).
Keep in mind: SR-22 isn’t a type of insurance. Rather, it’s a certificate of financial responsibility that confirms that you carry the state minimum liability insurance coverage. Drivers must keep an SR-22 for three to five years after their conviction.
Under California law, drivers who have been convicted of a serious or significant driving violation or traffic offense must fulfill an SR-22 requirement to get back on the road after facing a restricted license.
Common infractions that require SR-22 insurance are:
Did you know? If your current SR-22 policy lapses at any time, the California DMV will be notified and your license will be suspended or revoked, and your filing period may be restarted—meaning you have to start the 3-5 year period all over again.
What is the cost of SR-22 insurance in California?
The typical filing fee for an SR-22 form in California is $25—but added legal fines associated with an SR-22 can bring this cost up to $300.
As a high-risk driver, your insurance premiums with an SR-22 will undoubtably increase, but the final cost may vary depending on factors, such as your age, location, insurance coverage type, and vehicle.
California is considered to be one of the highest US states for insurance rates, due to increased population and daily commuters. With an SR-22, you may experience an increase of 142% to 185% annually compared to a driver with a clean record.
While rates will remain more costly no matter who your provider is, it doesn’t mean you need to pay the highest premium. Consider asking your current insurance company about discounts—some providers supply multi-car, continuous insurance, and multi-policy discounts.
SR-22 filings are not monitored by the California DMV after issuance. After your 3-5 year period is up, you need to contact your insurance provider, who will notify the DMV and it will be removed from your driving record.
What does SR-22 cover in California?
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An SR-22 certificate acts as a declaration of financial responsibility, and informs the state that the holder has at least $15,000 per person/$30,000 per accident in bodily injury liability (BIL) and $5,000 in property damage liability per accident (PDL).
Last Updated Apr 23, 2024
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