SR-22 in California: Who Needs It and How Long You Keep It

California calls it a California Insurance Proof Certificate, and the rule of thumb is 3 years. The two big triggers are a DUI and being in a collision without insurance.

What an SR-22 is in California

In California the form is the California Insurance Proof Certificate (SR 22, or SR 1P). Your insurance company, which must be authorized to do business in California, files it with the DMV to show you carry the required liability coverage. The DMV accepts it for every action that requires proof of financial responsibility.

Who needs one

After a DUI

To reinstate your license after a DUI suspension, the DMV requires you to finish the suspension or restriction, complete a DUI program, and provide an SR 22, which you then keep for 3 years. Our California DUI insurance guide covers what that does to your premium.

After a collision without insurance

Every driver must report a collision to the DMV within 10 days (form SR 1) if anyone was injured or killed or if property damage was over $1,000, whoever was at fault. If you can't show you were insured, your license is suspended; the California Driver Handbook says for up to four years. You can get your license back during the last three years of the suspension by filing an SR 22 and keeping it in force. Alternatively, you may qualify for a restricted license under Vehicle Code §§ 16072 and 16077, as long as you keep evidence of insurance on file with the DMV.

How long you keep it

The DMV's rule is that you will usually need to keep proof on file for three years from the first date you file insurance to end the suspension or revocation. After an insurance-related suspension ends, proof must be filed and maintained for three years (Vehicle Code § 16430).

What it has to cover

California's minimum liability limits rose on January 1, 2025, to $30,000 for injury or death of one person, $60,000 per accident, and $15,000 for property damage. Under the same law (SB 1107) they're scheduled to rise again to 50/100/25 on January 1, 2035.

Alternatives to an SR-22

The DMV also accepts a $75,000 surety bond from a company authorized in California, or a $75,000 cash deposit with the DMV. For most people an SR-22 through an insurer is far cheaper, but the options exist if no insurer will write you.

If you don't live in California

If you live in another state but need to end a California suspension, a California proof certificate or an SR-22 from an insurer in your state works without extra paperwork; the DMV notes the SR-22 form is available in most states. Other out-of-state insurance documents need a signed Declaration Regarding Certificate of Insurance for Non-Resident Driver (DL 300), and your insurer must be authorized in your state. Residents of Arizona, Nevada and Oregon can only use the SR-22 form in place of the California certificate.

Related: When does my SR-22 end? (calculator) · Driving with a suspended license in California · Reckless driving in California · Driving without insurance in California · Car insurance after a DUI in California · SR-22 requirements in every state