In California, an SR-22 is a certificate your insurer files with the DMV to prove you carry at least the state-minimum liability coverage. California raised that minimum to 30/60/15 on January 1, 2025. Most drivers must keep the SR-22 for three years from reinstatement, and insurers charge about $25 to file.
When California Requires an SR-22
The California DMV requires an SR-22 after certain violations, as a condition of reinstating your driving privileges. You will generally need one after:
- A DUI conviction
- Driving without insurance or an at-fault crash while uninsured
- A license suspension or revocation you are reinstating
- Too many points or repeated serious violations
- Driving on a suspended license
California SR-22 Minimum Coverage
An SR-22 in California must prove you carry at least the state-minimum liability limits. Under Senate Bill 1107, California raised those minimums to 30/60/15 effective January 1, 2025: $30,000 in bodily injury coverage per person, $60,000 per accident, and $15,000 in property damage. These were the first increases since 1967.
How Long Do You Need an SR-22 in California?
California typically requires you to keep an SR-22 on file for three years, measured from your reinstatement date. Severe or repeat offenses can extend the requirement to as long as five years.
Coverage must remain continuous. If your policy lapses, your insurer notifies the DMV and your license can be suspended again, restarting the clock.
How Much Does an SR-22 Cost in California?
The filing fee is modest — California insurers typically charge a one-time fee of around $25 to submit the certificate to the DMV. The larger cost is the premium increase from the underlying violation, which a DUI raises far more than a coverage lapse.
The California DMV also charges a reissue (reinstatement) fee to restore your license. Because high-risk pricing varies widely, comparing carriers that file SR-22s in California is the most reliable way to lower the total cost.
Non-Owner SR-22 in California
If you need an SR-22 but do not own a vehicle, a non-owner policy meets the California requirement and lets your insurer file the certificate. It provides liability coverage when you drive cars you do not own and costs less than a standard policy.
How to File an SR-22 in California
- Confirm the requirement from your DMV order or court paperwork.
- Compare quotes from carriers that file SR-22s and meet the 30/60/15 minimum.
- Buy the policy and pay the one-time filing fee.
- Pay the DMV reissue fee to restore your license.
- Keep continuous coverage for the full three years.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do you need an SR-22 in California?
Usually three years from your reinstatement date. Severe or repeat offenses can extend it to five years.
What are the minimum coverage limits for an SR-22 in California?
California raised its minimum to 30/60/15 on January 1, 2025: $30,000 bodily injury per person, $60,000 per accident, and $15,000 property damage.
How much does an SR-22 cost in California?
Insurers charge a one-time filing fee of about $25. The bigger cost is the higher premium tied to the violation behind the filing.
Can I get a non-owner SR-22 in California?
Yes. A non-owner policy meets the requirement if you do not own a car and is usually cheaper than a standard policy.
Who has to file an SR-22 in California?
Drivers reinstating a license after a DUI, driving uninsured, an at-fault uninsured crash, or too many violations.