SR22 Insurance in California: What You Need to Know

If you’re looking for car insurance in California, you may have come across the term “SR22 insurance.” But what exactly is SR22 insurance, and why is it important? In this article, we’ll answer these questions and more.

What is SR22 Insurance?

SR22 insurance is not actually a type of insurance policy, but rather a document that certifies that you have insurance coverage that meets the minimum liability requirements in the state of California. Specifically, SR22 is a form that your insurance provider files with the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to prove that you have the required coverage.

In general, you may be required to obtain an SR22 if you have been convicted of certain traffic offenses, such as driving under the influence (DUI) or driving without insurance. The DMV may also require an SR22 if you have had your license suspended or revoked. Your insurance provider can tell you if you need an SR22.

How Does SR22 Insurance Work?

When you purchase car insurance with an SR22, your insurance provider will file the form with the DMV on your behalf. You will then be required to maintain continuous coverage for a specified period of time, typically three years. If you let your coverage lapse, your insurance provider is required to notify the DMV, which could result in the suspension of your license.

It’s important to note that an SR22 does not provide any additional coverage beyond what is required by law. However, because having an SR22 indicates that you have had previous driving offenses, your insurance rates may be higher than they would be otherwise.

How Much Does SR22 Insurance Cost?

The cost of SR22 insurance in California varies depending on a number of factors, including the type of offense that led to the requirement, your driving history, and the level of coverage you choose. In general, expect to pay more for SR22 insurance than you would for a standard insurance policy.

Many insurance providers offer SR22 insurance, so it’s worth shopping around to find the best rates. However, be sure to choose a reputable provider that is licensed to do business in California and has a good reputation for customer service.

FAQ

What Happens if I Don’t Get SR22 Insurance?

If you are required to obtain an SR22 but fail to do so, your license may be suspended or revoked. Additionally, driving without insurance is illegal in California and could result in fines, points on your driving record, and even jail time in some cases.

Can I Get SR22 Insurance if I Don’t Own a Car?

Yes, you can obtain non-owner SR22 insurance if you do not own a car but still need to meet the insurance requirements. Non-owner SR22 insurance provides liability coverage when you are driving someone else’s car or a rental car.

How Long Do I Need to Maintain SR22 Insurance?

The length of time you need to maintain SR22 insurance depends on the offense that led to the requirement. In general, you will need to maintain coverage for three years, but it could be longer in some cases.

What Happens if I Move to Another State?

If you move to another state while you still need to maintain SR22 insurance, you will need to continue to do so in your new state. However, the requirements for SR22 insurance vary by state, so you should check with your new state’s DMV to make sure you are meeting the requirements.

Conclusion

SR22 insurance can be a complicated and confusing topic, but it’s important to understand if you need to obtain it. By working with a reputable insurance provider and maintaining continuous coverage, you can meet the requirements and get back on the road safely and legally.