California SR-22 Insurance Guide (2025)
Everything you need to know about SR-22 filings in California. Costs, requirements, and how to get the cheapest rates after a DUI or license suspension.
What is SR-22 Insurance?
SR-22 is a certificate proving you carry the state-minimum auto liability coverage. California requires SR-22 for 3 years after DUI, driving without insurance, or license suspension. It's not a type of insurance—it's a filing your insurer submits to the DMV.
Key Facts About SR-22 in California
- Filing fee: $25-$50 one-time (California DMV)
- Duration: 3 years from license reinstatement
- Monthly cost: $12-$150/month depending on record
- Rate increase: 80-100% higher than standard insurance
Key Takeaway
You don't buy "SR-22 insurance." You buy a standard auto insurance policy and add an SR-22 filing endorsement to it.
When do you need SR-22 in California? The DMV requires it after:
- DUI or DWI convictions (most common reason)
- Driving without insurance
- Reckless driving
- Too many points on your driving record
- At-fault accidents while uninsured
How Much Does SR-22 Insurance Cost?
The filing fee itself is relatively small—usually a one-time fee of $25 to $50. While violations can increase premiums, we work with specialized carriers to offer SR-22 policies starting at just $18/mo for vehicle owners.
Our Starting Monthly Rates
| Policy Type | Starting Rate | Coverage |
|---|---|---|
| Non-Owner SR-22 | $12/mo | Liability Only |
| Owner SR-22 | $18/mo | Liability Only |
| Full Coverage | $64/mo | Comp & Collision |
| High Risk / DUI | $85/mo | Liability Only |
| Multi-Vehicle (3+) | $136/mo | Full Coverage |
*Rates shown are starting estimates. Actual premiums vary based on driving record, location, and vehicle type.
"The biggest mistake drivers make is accepting the first SR-22 quote they receive. Shopping around can save $50-$100 per month—that's $1,800+ over your 3-year filing period."
Michael Chen, CPCU
Licensed Insurance Agent, California DOI #0H52831
15+ years specializing in high-risk auto insurance
2025 California SR-22 Statistics
152,000+ SR-22 filings processed annually in CA
93% average rate increase after DUI
3 years mandatory filing period
$1,800/year average savings by comparing quotes
72% of drivers overpay on SR-22
Same-day electronic filing available
Sources: California DMV 2024 Annual Report, Insurance Information Institute, National Association of Insurance Commissioners
Compare SR-22 Insurance Providers (2025)
Not all insurance companies offer SR-22 filing. Here's how the major California carriers compare for high-risk drivers:
| Provider | DUI Rate (Avg) | Non-Owner | Same-Day Filing | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mercury Insurance | $85/mo | $15/mo | DUI drivers, lowest rates | |
| GEICO | $92/mo | $18/mo | Good credit scores | |
| Progressive | $105/mo | $20/mo | Multiple violations | |
| State Farm | $118/mo | $22/mo | Bundled policies | |
| Dairyland | $89/mo | $12/mo | Non-owner, high-risk specialists | |
| Bristol West | $95/mo | $14/mo | Suspended licenses |
Rates based on 35-year-old driver with single DUI, Los Angeles County, as of December 2025. Actual rates vary by individual factors.
Our Recommendation
For most California drivers needing SR-22, we recommend starting with Mercury Insurance or Dairyland for the lowest rates. If you don't own a car, Dairyland's $12/mo non-owner policy is typically the cheapest option available.
California SR-22 Requirements
To satisfy the SR-22 requirement, your policy must meet California's minimum liability limits. Note that these limits increased in January 2025.
Bodily Injury
$30,000
per accident minimum
($15,000 per person)
Property Damage
$5,000
per accident minimum
Non-Owner SR-22 Insurance
Don't own a car?
If you need to reinstate your license but don't own a vehicle, you can purchase a Non-Owner SR-22 Policy. This is often the cheapest way to fulfill the state's requirement.
- Covers you when driving borrowed or rental cars
- Satisfies DMV reinstatement requirements
- Typically 30-40% cheaper than standard policies
Important: A non-owner policy does NOT cover vehicles owned by you or members of your household.
Frequently Asked Questions
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