Getting a DUI in California can feel like hitting a dead end, but it doesn’t mean your driving days are over. If your license has been suspended or revoked, an SR-22 is often required to reinstate your driving privileges. While the process may seem overwhelming, understanding how SR-22s work can help you get back on the road faster.
Let’s break down what an SR-22 is, why it’s required after a DUI, how to get it, and how to keep costs as low as possible.
Why Do You Need an SR-22 After a DUI?
If you’ve been convicted of driving under the influence (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI), California law requires you to carry an SR-22 with insurance before you can legally drive again. Here’s why:
- License reinstatement – After a DUI, the DMV won’t reinstate your license until you prove that you have the proper coverage.
- State law compliance – California law mandates that high-risk drivers carry an SR-22 for a set period (usually three years).
Without an SR-22, your license remains suspended, and driving without it could lead to severe penalties, including additional fines, longer suspensions, or even jail time. But, even with the cheapest coverage for high-risk drivers, you can get behind the wheel again.
How to Get an SR-22 in California After a DUI
If you need an SR-22 after a DUI, here’s what to do:
- Contact Your Insurance Provider
- Not all insurers offer an SR-22, so check with your current company first.
- If they don’t provide it, you may need to switch to a provider that specializes in high-risk drivers.
- Purchase the Required Auto Insurance Coverage
- California’s minimum liability coverage requirements are:
- $15,000 for injury or death of one person
- $30,000 for injury or death of multiple people
- $5,000 for property damage
- California’s minimum liability coverage requirements are:
- Request an SR-22 Filing
- Your insurance company will file the SR-22 form with the DMV on your behalf.
- There’s usually a filing fee of $25–$50.
- Pay Any DUI-Related Fines and Fees
- In addition to the cost of an SR-22, you may need to pay DUI fines, court fees, and DMV reinstatement fees.
- Wait for DMV Processing
- Once your SR-22 is filed, it usually takes a few days for the DMV to process your paperwork and reinstate your license.
What Happens If You Let Your SR-22 Policy Lapse?
If your SR-22 lapses or gets canceled before the required period is over, the insurance company is required to notify the California DMV immediately. This could result in:
Immediate license suspension
Restarting the three-year SR-22 requirement
Higher insurance rates due to non-compliance
To avoid these penalties, set up automatic payments or schedule reminders to ensure your policy remains active.
Why Does the Price Vary for Insurance?
Have you wondered why you’re getting different quotes for insurance? There are several different elements that come into play and influence how much you pay.
Being aware of them means you have a better understanding of what you’re paying for and it can also help you to find a good deal. So, let’s take a closer look at the elements that make insurance vary from person to person.
The Provider
First, you have to consider the company you’re choosing to get insurance with. They all have different rates, which is going to influence how much you pay. They also have different prices depending on whether you pay monthly or annually. So, the best thing you can do is get a quote and explore your options. While it can be reassuring to get this from a provider you know, there could be more cost-effective options available from others.
Your Driving History
Everybody has different driving histories, and this is taken into account to calculate how much you’re paying for insurance. For example, if you have several convictions and traffic offences, this is going to drive up how much you’re going to be paying. However, if you have minimal incidents, this can keep your price as low as possible.
Final Thoughts
Getting back on the road after a DUI in California requires patience and careful planning. While getting an SR-22 may seem like a hassle, it’s a necessary step to reinstate your license and prove financial responsibility.
By understanding why you need an SR-22, how to get it, and how to keep costs manageable, you can navigate the process with confidence. The key is to stay covered, drive safely, and avoid further violations to rebuild your driving record and lower your insurance costs over time.