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Is it illegal to drive without insurance in California?

I just moved to the state and the cost of living is so high. If I don't purchase a new policy here, will I face legal consequences?

avatar
Sophie Newman · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
“While
car insurance
 is required in the state of California, you do have the option to self-insure, which requires a certificate from the Department of Motor Vehicles and evidence of a $35,000 cash deposit.
Drivers that are caught without valid insurance or a self-insurance certificate will be fined anywhere from $100 to $200 for a first offense and more with each subsequent offense. If you get into an accident, you could have your license suspended and be forced to purchase
SR-22 car insurance
.
If price is an obstacle for obtaining car insurance,
Jerry
 can help. Jerry pulls quotes from the top 50 companies and delivers the best deals to your phone in minutes.”
MORE:
Minimum Car Insurance Required in Your State: What You Need to Know
CaliforniaSR-22Car Insurance
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