California SR-22 Insurance Requirements
What California requires, what it costs, and how to file — updated for August 2026.
Minimum Coverage Limits in California
California requires liability coverage of at least 30/60/15 to satisfy a SR-22 filing. Your policy must meet or exceed these limits for the entire filing period — dropping below them, even temporarily, counts as a lapse.
How to File in California
- Confirm your exact filing deadline with the court or the California DMV.
- Get quotes from insurers that file SR-22s electronically in California — see the provider table below.
- Purchase the policy (or add the endorsement to an existing one) and request the filing specifically.
- Your insurer files electronically with the California DMV, typically within 24–48 hours.
- Keep coverage continuous for the full required period — 3 years from the triggering violation.
California SR-22 Costs
| Item | Typical Amount |
|---|---|
| Filing fee | $15 - $25 |
| Required duration | 3 years |
| Minimum liability | 30/60/15 |
Your premium increase depends on the violation and your driving record — see the full cost breakdown for typical ranges by violation type.
How Long California Requires It
California requires 3 years of continuous SR-22 coverage from the date of the triggering violation. A coverage lapse restarts the clock — see how the timeline works in detail.
Cheapest SR-22 Providers in California
| Carrier | Filing Speed | Non-Owner |
|---|---|---|
| Progressive | Electronic, same-day | Yes |
| GEICO | Electronic, same-day | Yes |
| Dairyland | Electronic, 24–48 hrs | Yes |
Full comparison: Cheapest SR-22 by State.
California DMV/BMV Contact
| Agency | California DMV |
| Contact | Find official contact info via USA.gov's state DMV directory |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does California require SR-22 for a first DUI?
In most cases, yes — a DUI conviction typically triggers the requirement regardless of whether it's a first offense, though specifics depend on your court's order.
Can I get a non-owner SR-22 in California?
Yes. If you don't own a vehicle, a non-owner policy satisfies the filing requirement — see non-owner SR-22 insurance.