California SR-22 requirements are about proving financial responsibility to the DMV with current liability limits and continuous coverage.
Financial responsibility proof
The California DMV describes insurance as financial responsibility and includes an SR-22 certificate among proof options. The insurer files the certificate to show qualifying coverage.
Drivers should keep proof available and confirm the DMV has accepted the filing when reinstatement depends on it.
Current liability limits
Current California minimum liability guidance is 30/60/15. That means $30,000 for one person's injury or death, $60,000 for injury or death to more than one person, and $15,000 for property damage.
Old pre-2025 minimum-limit references are historical and should not be treated as current filing guidance.
Continuous coverage
A required SR-22 should stay active until the DMV requirement is complete. If the policy cancels, the insurer can send notice that the filing is no longer active.
Before changing carriers or vehicles, confirm how the filing will transfer and whether there will be any coverage gap.
Common questions
Who files the SR-22?
The insurer files the SR-22 with the California DMV; the driver buys and maintains the policy.
What limits should the policy meet?
Use current California 30/60/15 minimum liability guidance unless a higher limit is chosen.
California sources used
- California DMV insurance requirements
DMV page covering financial responsibility and SR-22 proof options.
- California DMV driver handbook: insurance requirements
Official handbook page listing California's current 30/60/15 minimum liability limits.
- California Department of Insurance automobile coverage limits
CDI consumer page showing basic liability coverage limits and shopping context.