An SR-22 isn't a type of insurance coverage, but rather proof that you have insurance. It is notification from your insurance company to the DMV that you have auto liability insurance in effect in the State of California which satisfies the minimum insurance coverage required by the State. This insurance notification is typically required by the State for 3 years from the date the original 4 month suspension would have ended which can be determined by adding 4 months from the date you were given the "pink" temporary license. If your policy lapses for any reason (miss a payment, get cancelled) the insurance carrier is REQUIRED to notify the DMV who is supposed to then notify you that you will have to file another SR-22 with them by a certain date or your license will be suspended. This form, typically filed electronically, is the only form the The Department of Motor Vehicles will accept. They will not accept any other form as a substitute for the SR-22.
When is the SR 22 required?
This will be required by you if:
- You were arrested for a DUI and;
- you have your license suspended or restricted (setting and winning a DMV hearing can avoid this) and/or;
- if you are required to take a DUI program and;
- you want to get a restricted license.
To get a restricted license you have to do 3 things: (Not immediately - only after you lose your DMV hearing or get convicted in Court)
- Pay a re-issue fee of $125.00
- Show proof of financial responsibility (SR-22).
- Show proof of enrollment in approved DUI program.
Insurance minimums in California:
For private passenger vehicles per accident:
- $15,000 for injury/death to one person.
- $30,000 for injury/death to more than one person.
- $5,000 for damage to property.
Moving to Another State:
If you currently have an SR-22 and want to move to another state you must maintain the SR-22 like you still live in California - even though you no longer reside here. Also, your insurance policy for the new state must have liability minimums required by law in California. This applies even if you move to one of the states that does not have SR-22 insurance: Delaware, Kentucky, Minnesota, New Mexico, Oklahoma and Pennsylvania.
Already convicted of a DUI and need a license?
First, make sure you are eligible for at least a restricted license by calling the California DMV at 1(800) 777-0133. Then follow the steps above.
Other related information:
If your insurance company cancels your insurance because of your DUI you will receive a notice indicating that your vehicle registration will be suspended if new insurance information is not submitted within 45 days.
Already agreed to enter a guilty plea or didn't request a DMV hearing?
If you think you are going to be convicted of a DUI make sure you contact an insurance broker BEFORE the conviction appears on your record. A skilled insurance broker can often times save you from being cancelled or having your insurances rates double (typical through State Farm for example) once a DUI conviction appears on your record. Additionally, you should know that although your SR 22 can be filed electronically you should get an original from your insurance company and hand deliver it to the DMV so that you don't have to wait for the clerks in Sacramento to do thier job - which they do slowly. I recommend calling John MacDonald at 1 800 346 7370 for all of your insurance needs. John MacDonald Insurance