California SR-22 Insurance After DUI or Suspension
California requires 30/60/15 liability coverage and is an at-fault state.
Compare Rates After a ViolationCalifornia at a Glance
30/60/15
Minimum liability limits, in thousands of dollars (per person / per accident / property)
At-fault
The at-fault driver's insurance pays for the damage they cause
Optional
PIP and uninsured motorist coverage are not required by law
Yes
A defensive driving course can reduce points on your record
Source: state DMV, insurance department and statute records, verified July 2026
Minimum Coverage Requirements in California
Drivers with DUI convictions, license suspensions for points or reckless driving, at-fault accidents while uninsured, or multiple violations typically must file SR-22 certification with the California Department of Motor Vehicles. The DMV notifies you by mail if SR-22 is required, and coverage must remain active without lapse for the full filing period or the requirement resets.
Liability Insurance
SR-22 Insurance
Non-Standard Auto Insurance
Full Coverage
Uninsured Motorist Coverage
What Drivers Pay in California
$318–$437/mo
Typical monthly rate in California, drivers after a speeding ticket
Rate data: ValuePenguin and CarInsurance.com, 2026
What Affects Your Rate
- Time since violation — rates decrease after 1 year claim-free, drop significantly after 3 years, and approach standard market after 5 years for single violations
- Location — urban areas like Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Oakland see higher high-risk rates due to accident frequency and claim costs
- Age and experience — drivers under 25 with violations face compounded high-risk pricing; drivers over 50 with clean records prior to violation see smaller increases
Shop Again Before Your Next Renewal Hits
Compare Rates After a ViolationCoverage Types
SR-22 Insurance
Certificate filed by your insurer proving you carry minimum liability. Required for 3 years after DUI, suspension, or uninsured accident in California. Your insurer files electronically with the DMV within 24–48 hours of policy activation.
Non-Standard Auto Insurance
Policies designed for drivers with DUI, suspensions, lapses, or multiple violations. Non-standard carriers accept risk that standard insurers decline and offer SR-22 filing as standard service.
Liability Insurance
Covers injury and property damage you cause to others. California requires 15/30/5 minimums, but these limits are insufficient for most serious accidents and leave you personally liable for excess damages.
Full Coverage
Liability plus collision and comprehensive. Required by lenders if you finance or lease a vehicle. Protects your vehicle's value but costs significantly more for high-risk drivers.
Uninsured Motorist Coverage
Protects you if hit by a driver with no insurance or insufficient coverage. Optional in California but recommended given the state's uninsured driver rate.
Collision Coverage
Pays for damage to your vehicle after an at-fault accident regardless of fault. Required by lenders and recommended for newer or high-value vehicles.