What's an SR22?
An SR22, also known as proof of financial responsibility, is simply a form that your auto insurance company files with the DMV that lets them know you are carrying an active auto insurance policy. It's required when the DMV decides to only allow a person driving privileges if they carry valid auto insurance. An SR22 filing allows the DMV to keep track of your auto insurance as the insurance companies are required to notify the DMV of any lapse or cancellation of your policy. Usually in California, the DMV will require an SR22 policy be carried for a term of 3 years and if at any time during those 3 years your SR22 gets cancelled, the DMV will again suspend your license pending proof of an active SR22 policy as well as another DMV reinstatement fee.
Reasons an SR22 may be required in California
In California, divers require proof of insurance filing form SR22 mainly after being booked for a DUI or being involved in an accident without having the state required minimum liability insurance. SR22 filing is mandatory under California driving laws in order to reinstate your license after being suspended for any of the above reasons. The SR22 form is issued by your insurance company and is filed with the CA DMV allowing driving privileges to be reinstated given that all other DMV requirements have been met. In DUI cases, the DMV will likely require enrollment or completion of a DUI course in addition to an SR22.
Cost of SR22 insurance in California
The SR22 itself usually costs right around $20 and is a one time fee. The main cost is the actual auto insurance it's endorsed on and since auto insurance rates vary from person to person, so too do the actual costs of an SR22 policy. Basically, the cost of SR22 insurance would be your auto insurance rates, plus about a $20 filing fee, plus DUI course fees if any, plus $55 to the DMV to reinstate your license.
How to get SR22 Insurance Quotes in California
CA Motorists can apply for SR22 insurance quotes online which is a good way to save both time and money. Alternatively, they can work with and get quotes from an insurance broker or independent agent who is in a better position to provide options and reduce the premiums considerably. Drivers may consider a non-owners SR22 quote if they currently don't own a vehicle, which is enough to satisfy the DMV's requirements.