SR-22 Insurance in California
Need to file an SR-22 with the California DMV? Online General Insurance helps drivers compare auto insurance policies that support SR-22 filings, including options for eligible drivers who don't own a car. Whether your requirement follows a DUI, a license suspension, or another qualifying incident, our agents can help you understand the coverage and filing process.
An SR-22 isn't a separate insurance policy. It's a certificate your insurer files to show that you meet the required financial responsibility rules. Based in Tarzana, we help California drivers review available insurance options and arrange SR-22 filing requests through participating carriers.
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SR-22 Insurance
Typical coverage
- ✓ Owner SR-22 filing
- ✓ Non-owner SR-22 filing
- ✓ Liability-only or full coverage
- ✓ DUI / suspended-license restart
Built around you
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Same-day filing
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Non-standard carriers on hand
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Reinstatement guidance, no judgment
What Is an SR-22 Filing in California?
An SR-22 is a certificate of financial responsibility filed by an insurance company with the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). It confirms that a driver has qualifying liability insurance when the DMV requires additional proof of coverage.
You don't purchase an SR-22 as a standalone insurance policy. Instead, you obtain an eligible auto insurance policy and request the required filing through the insurer.
California may require an SR-22 after certain driving-related suspensions, including some DUI-related cases or accidents involving uninsured drivers. The exact requirement depends on your driving record and the notice issued by the DMV.
California's Minimum Auto Liability Requirements
As of January 1, 2025, California's standard minimum liability limits are:
These limits are commonly called 30/60/15. Your policy must meet the financial responsibility requirements that apply to your situation. Higher limits may be appropriate depending on your needs.
- ✓ $30,000 for bodily injury or death to one person
- ✓ $60,000 for bodily injury or death to more than one person in one accident
- ✓ $15,000 for property damage per accident
Owner and Non-Owner SR-22 Insurance Options
The insurance policy you need depends on whether you own a vehicle, how you use it, and the filing requirements listed in your DMV notice.
SR-22 Filing With an Owner's Auto Insurance Policy
If you own a car, you may be able to add the required SR-22 filing through an insurer that offers qualifying coverage.
Your auto insurance policy must meet the applicable liability requirements. You can also review optional collision and comprehensive coverage if you want protection for damage to your own vehicle.
Non-Owner SR-22 Insurance in California
Don't own a car but still need to satisfy an SR-22 requirement? An eligible non-owner auto insurance policy may provide the liability coverage needed for a filing.
Non-owner coverage generally applies to certain driving situations involving vehicles you don't own. However, eligibility and coverage restrictions vary by insurer. Vehicles owned by household members, vehicles available for regular use, and rental cars may be subject to limitations.
Before purchasing a policy, tell your agent whether you live with someone who owns a vehicle or regularly borrow or rent cars. This helps determine whether a non-owner policy is suitable for your situation.
How to Get an SR-22 Filed With the California DMV
Check Your DMV Notice
Review why an SR-22 is required, any deadline, and the conditions for restoring your driving privileges. If anything is unclear, confirm the requirement with the California DMV.
Request an SR-22 Insurance Quote
Contact Online General Insurance with your driver's license information, driving history, vehicle details if applicable, and any DMV paperwork. Our agents can help you review available policy options.
Choose a Qualifying Policy
Compare the available coverage, premium, payment terms, and filing arrangements. If you don't own a car, ask whether a non-owner policy is appropriate.
Arrange the SR-22 Filing
Once eligible insurance is in force, the insurer can arrange the required SR-22 submission. Filing methods and processing times depend on the carrier and DMV procedures.
Confirm Your DMV Status and Keep Coverage Active
Follow the DMV's instructions to satisfy any remaining reinstatement conditions. Maintain the required insurance throughout your filing period, and confirm with the DMV before canceling or changing the coverage.
How Much Does SR-22 Insurance Cost in California?
The cost of meeting an SR-22 requirement involves two different expenses: the insurance policy premium and any applicable filing fee.
Insurance premium: Your rate depends on factors such as your driving record, years of driving experience, annual mileage, vehicle, selected coverage, and the insurer's rating rules. A DUI or other serious violation may affect the premium.
SR-22 filing fee: Some insurers charge a separate fee to prepare and submit the certificate. Ask whether this fee is included in your quote.
There isn't one fixed SR-22 insurance price for every California driver. The cost can vary substantially between insurers, even when comparing similar liability limits.
Online General Insurance can help you compare available policies and understand the charges before purchasing coverage.
What Happens if Your SR-22 Insurance Lapses?
Keeping your insurance active is important while the DMV requires an SR-22.
If your policy is canceled or expires without replacement coverage, the insurer may notify the DMV. Depending on your circumstances, a lapse could lead to another suspension or additional steps before you can legally drive.
If you're planning to change insurance companies, arrange the new policy and required SR-22 filing before ending your existing coverage.
Don't assume your filing requirement has expired simply because three years have passed. Check the end date and any remaining conditions with the DMV before making changes.
Frequently Asked Questions About SR-22 Insurance in California
What is an SR-22, and why might I need one in California? +
An SR-22 is a certificate your insurer files to prove you carry qualifying liability coverage. California may require one after certain driving-related suspensions, including some DUI cases or uninsured accidents. Your DMV notice will explain whether a filing is required.
How do I get an SR-22 filed with the California DMV? +
Start by requesting auto insurance from a carrier that supports California SR-22 filings. Once you purchase an eligible policy, the insurer can arrange the certificate submission. Confirm the filing and any remaining reinstatement requirements with the DMV.
Can I get SR-22 insurance without owning a car? +
Yes, eligible drivers who don't own a vehicle may qualify for non-owner auto insurance with an SR-22 filing. Coverage restrictions vary, especially for household vehicles or cars you regularly use. An agent can help you check your eligibility.
How much does SR-22 insurance cost in California? +
The price depends on your driving history, insurance company, coverage limits, and other applicable rating factors. Some carriers also charge an SR-22 filing fee. Comparing quotes with similar coverage can help you understand your options.
How long do I need to maintain an SR-22 in California? +
Some California driving-related suspensions require SR-22 proof for three years, but the duration depends on the circumstances. Follow your DMV notice and confirm when the requirement ends before canceling or changing coverage.
What happens if my SR-22 insurance lapses? +
A cancellation or lapse may trigger an insurer notification to the DMV and could affect your driving privileges. Maintain continuous qualifying coverage for the required period and arrange replacement insurance before ending an existing policy.
Does filing an SR-22 automatically reinstate my driver's license? +
No. An SR-22 may satisfy the insurance portion of your reinstatement requirements, but you could also need to complete other DMV conditions or pay applicable fees. Check your license status before driving.
Can I switch insurance companies while I have an SR-22 requirement? +
Yes, you can generally switch to another insurer that supports the required filing. Make sure the replacement policy and SR-22 are arranged without a coverage gap. Confirm the change with your insurer and the DMV.
SR-22 Insurance guides
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