It is important to know who needs SR22 insurance and how to get it as a licensed driver in the state of California since this form will be required for you to continue driving. Getting SR22 is one of the ways you can ensure your ability to drive in the future. It is proof of insurance that informs the government that you are covered in the event that you get in a crash. This way, any victims of the crash will get compensation. However, not all drivers need this type of insurance.

SR22 insurance is important to understand if you have been convicted of certain driving-related violations such as a DUI or DWI. A driver who needs SR22 insurance to continue driving will need to have at least the basic auto insurance coverage and pay the required fees for license reinstatement. Continue reading to learn more about the SR22 and the requirements in California.

What is California SR22 insurance?

California’s SR22 form is designed to keep the roads safer by requiring everyone to have the level of insurance they need to handle the problems they are most likely to get into. For most Californians, this level of auto insurance is covered by the state’s Financial Responsibility Insurance Requirements.

However, if you are considered a driver who engages in high-risk driving habits, then you may be required to get additional proof of insurance. SR-22 is this form of insurance proof. This form of insurance proof allows the government to keep track of when your insurance is in effect.

Who needs SR22 insurance in California?

Residents who should look into SR-22 rates in CA are those who have been involved in certain moving violations. An SR22 form is insurance proof and is usually required if you have been involved in a DUI or DWI. This can mean being either drunk or on drugs while driving. It can also mean you refused to take a breathalyzer test, leaving authorities unable to confirm whether you were sober while driving. You will generally need this form for the next three years. After that time, you will be able to drive without this insurance proof.

As an alternative to SR-22 insurance, you can set aside a certain amount of money. You will not need this proof of insurance if you choose to set aside $35,000 in case an accident occurs or choosing the self-insurance option. As well, you are only required to submit an SR-22 form if you want your driving privileges reinstated. If you choose to forgo driving in the state of California after a license suspension, then you will not need to submit this proof of insurance to them.

Reinstating Driving Privileges With SR22 in California

You may use SR22 to reinstate your driving privileges in CA if you are caught driving drunk or if you refuse a blood or breathalyzer test that an officer requests. You will get a short-term license allowing you to drive for the next 30 days, but after that, you will not be allowed to drive. Before you start looking for SR22 insurance quotes, you will have to stay off the road for the period required. This period will generally be anywhere from four months to a year if this is your first offense. You will be eligible to get your driving privileges back after the suspension.

You will have to pay SR22 and license fees to get your driving privileges back. These fees will vary based on the reason why your license was suspended and your previous driving record. Along with that, you will need SR-22 insurance for a minimum of three years. If you do not want to get an SR22 policy, then your alternative is to put aside $35,000, which will be used if you cause damages that need to be paid for.

How to Get SR22 Insurance in California

You can look for SR-22 rates from local insurance companies if you have been in a DUI and need proof of insurance. This is recommended as the first place to look. Although your insurance company may cancel your policy due to your DUI, you may still be able to get insured by them.

Your SR22 insurance quote will most likely be higher in order to compensate for your higher-risk driving habits. Make sure that when you get this form of insurance proof, your plan is appropriate for the state. California requires all drivers to have the following:

• $5,000 to cover the cost of damages to physical items
• $15,000 to cover any costs associated with an individual being killed or hurt in a crash
• $30,000 to cover all of the costs associated with multiple individuals being killed or hurt in a crash

If you cannot find an insurance company willing to give you an SR-22 policy, then California has a program designed to get you the insurance you need to drive called the California Automobile Assigned Risk Plan. Alternatively, if the cost of insurance is higher than you can afford, then you can look into California’s Low-Cost Auto Insurance Program.

Penalties for Not Filing an SR22 Form in California

You need to have an SR-22 form if you want to drive your vehicle in California. If you do not have the appropriate insurance for your vehicle, then California will suspend your registration. This means you will not be legally able to drive your car on California roads.

If you drive with a suspended registration, then your vehicle may be possessed by the California government. Moreover, you will be held financially responsible for any destruction you cause on the road. If your policy is canceled, then you will have to get an SR22 form and go through the reinstatement process again.

California Privacy R. Request

California Opt-Out