SR-22s and California DUI Laws

What Is an SR-22 and When Do I Need One in California?

SR-22s and California DUI Laws

If you’ve been convicted of driving under the influence (DUI) in California, your car insurance is probably the last thing on your mind. However, it is essential if you want to get your driver’s license back once the Department of Motor Vehicles suspends or revokes it because of a DUI.

To have your license reinstated, you will have to show that you have at least the minimum required auto insurance coverage. If you have to offer proof of financial responsibility after a DUI, you will have to maintain it for 3 years after the date of your conviction. There are various methods you can use to provide proof of financial responsibility, including filing a California Insurance Proof Certificate, also known as an SR-22.

What Is an SR-22?

An SR-22 financial responsibility insurance certificate is a car liability insurance document that you can file with Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to have your driver’s license reinstated.

While you may have heard people call the SR form “SR-22 insurance,” it is a certificate that your insurance company issues, not an insurance policy. The SR-22 form verifies that you are maintaining motor vehicle liability insurance at the state minimum levels.

In California, the minimum liability coverage amounts are:

  • $15,000 for injury or death to one person
  • $30,000 for injury or death to more than one person.
  • $5,000 for property damage

In lieu of filing an SR-22, you may also submit one of the following as proof of financial responsibility:

  • A $35,000 cash deposit
  • A surety bond
  • A self-insurer certificate

What if I Have a California Driver’s License but Don’t Own a Car?

If you don’t own a vehicle, but you need to prove financial responsibility to get your license back, you can buy a non-owner car insurance policy. This type of liability coverage will allow you to obtain the minimum insurance coverage that you need even if you don’t own a car.

Non-owner auto insurance companies typically require that you meet the following conditions:

  • You have a valid driver’s license or are eligible to get one by filing an SR-22.
  • You don’t own a car.
  • You don’t otherwise have regular access to a vehicle.

While non-owner auto insurance is much cheaper than standard auto liability coverage, many major car insurance companies do not offer it.

Do I Need an SR-22 To Get a Restricted Driver’s License?

While your license is suspended or revoked for a DUI, some people may be eligible to receive restricted driving privileges. California law allows for two types of restricted licenses:

  • Ignition interlock device (IID) restricted licenses
  • Occupational restricted license

The California DMV may issue an IID restricted license to a driver whose licenses are suspended if they install an IID in their vehicle. Even without an IID, you may also be able to receive limited privileges through an occupational restricted license, which allows you to drive to and from work. To receive either type of restricted license, you will need to file an SR-22 with the DMV.

Navigating a DUI conviction and the driver’s license suspension or revocation that comes with it can be challenging, especially if you are trying to do it on your own. At the Chambers Law Firm, we help people survive this process every day, and we can help you make it through too.

To learn more or to schedule a free initial consultation with a DUI defense lawyer in Rancho Cucamonga, CA, contact our law firm today at 714-760-4088 or info@orangecountyduifirm.com.

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