Cheapest SR-22 Car Insurance in California

CSAA offers the cheapest SR-22 insurance in California at $40 per month for minimum coverage, 68% less than the state average. National General is the most affordable option for full coverage at $127.

Farmers offers the cheapest non-owner SR-22 insurance in California at $62 monthly or $748 annually. Non-owner insurance helps drivers with an SR-22 filing meet the state's minimum coverage requirements, even if they don't own a vehicle. 

The table below lists providers offering non-owner SR-22 insurance and their average costs for minimum coverage.

The average cost of car insurance in California for drivers with an SR-22 is $1,496 annually for minimum coverage, 127% higher than the $659 average for those with clean records.

SR-22 drivers pay an average of $3,628 annually for full coverage, compared to $1,574 for drivers with clean records. This marks a 130% increase for SR-22 holders.

Having an SR-22 form doesn't automatically raise your insurance rates. Costs depend on the type of violation. The table below compares SR-22 prices for common violations across age groups in California.

An SR-22 isn't insurance but a form that proves you meet the state's minimum coverage requirements. If you have certain violations, you must file an SR-22 to get your license back. Insurers view SR-22 filers as high-risk, leading to higher premiums. Rates typically range from $500 to $2,000, depending on your situation.

An SR-22, also called an SR-22 bond or certificate of financial responsibility, is a certification your insurer files to confirm you have enough coverage to meet California's reinstatement requirements. It ensures you're legally covered to drive.

California requires an SR-22 for up to three years after serious traffic violations. This form confirms that you meet the state minimum coverage requirements. Drivers must follow these limits to comply with SR-22 laws:

• $30,000 personal injury liability per person
• $60,000 personal injury liability per accident
• $15,000 property damage liability per accident

In California, SR-22 certificates are usually required for up to three years.

Along with using an SR-22 for up to three years to comply with California's minimum coverage laws, drivers must follow these other rules:

• Fees: You must pay a fee to regain driving privileges and file the SR-22 form to prove liability coverage.
• Insurers' policies: After an SR-22 filing, your current insurer may cancel or refuse to renew your policy, requiring you to find a new provider.
• Continuous coverage: You must maintain uninterrupted coverage during the three-year SR-22 period. Lapses can result in penalties or license suspension, as insurers must notify the state of coverage gaps.
• Relocation: If you move out of California during the SR-22 period, coordinate with your insurer for out-of-state filing.
• Cancellation: After completing the three-year requirement, your insurer must file a financial responsibility cancellation with the state, confirming you’ve fulfilled the SR-22 obligation.

To avoid penalties and reinstate your license after a serious violation, keep your SR-22 insurance active for the entire required period. You'll need an SR-22 insurance quote if you don't have coverage. Finding insurance with an SR-22 can be tougher than for drivers with a clean record. Insurers may cancel your policy or deny coverage when you file.

High-risk drivers in California often face limited options and higher premiums due to fewer companies offering coverage. When seeking an SR-22 insurance quote, confirm the filing fee with your insurer if it’s your first time. Use these tips to find more affordable SR-22 insurance.

Non-owner car insurance provides minimum coverage for those who often drive but don’t own a vehicle. It ensures you’re covered when driving someone else’s car, making it ideal for frequent renters or rideshare drivers. These policies cover third-party injuries or property damage if you cause an accident.

Non-owner insurance is often cheaper than standard policies. Comparing quotes can help you find the best rates. After purchasing a non-owner policy, your insurer can file an SR-22 form, helping you meet state requirements and reinstate your license after three years.

Drivers with severe offenses need an SR-22 to prove they meet minimum coverage requirements. For serious or repeated violations, they may need to maintain this form for up to three years. While SR-22 insurance is more expensive, cheap car insurance providers in California offer affordable plans for these drivers.

Below are frequently asked questions about SR-22 certifications in California:

MoneyGeek analyzed 127,836 quotes from nine companies across 258 ZIP codes to determine the average cost of car insurance for California drivers of various profiles and needs.

California Driver Profile

We collected data for a sample driver with the following attributes:

• 40-year-old male
• Driving record with a DUI or an at-fault accident causing $1,000 to $1,999 in property damage
• 2012 Toyota Camry LE
• 12,000 miles driven annually

Coverage Levels and Deductibles

We gathered quotes for minimum coverage policies to help drivers find the cheapest SR-22 insurance for their coverage needs. Quotes were based on California’s minimum coverage requirements, with the following limits:

• $30,000 personal injury liability per person
• $60,000 personal injury liability per accident
• $15,000 property damage liability per accident

For the most affordable policy with comprehensive and collision coverage — also called full coverage — we used the following limits with a $1,000 deductible:

• $100,000 bodily injury liability per person
• $300,000 bodily injury liability per accident
• $100,000 property damage liability per accident

Learn more about MoneyGeek's car insurance methodology.