California SR-22 & High-Risk Auto Insurance
California requires 30/60/15 liability coverage and is an at-fault state.
Find Coverage After a Traffic ViolationCalifornia at a Glance
30/60/15
Minimum liability limits, in thousands of dollars (per person / per accident / property)
At-fault
The at-fault driver's insurance pays for the damage they cause
Optional
PIP and uninsured motorist coverage are not required by law
Yes
A defensive driving course can reduce points on your record
Source: state DMV, insurance department and statute records, verified July 2026
Minimum Coverage Requirements in California
Drivers with DUI convictions, license suspensions for excessive points, or uninsured at-fault accidents typically receive SR-22 filing requirements from the California Department of Motor Vehicles. The SR-22 is not insurance itself but a certificate filed by your insurer proving continuous coverage. Many high-risk drivers require non-standard carriers, as standard insurers often decline to renew policies after serious violations.
Liability Insurance
SR-22 Insurance
Non-Standard Auto Insurance
Full Coverage
Uninsured Motorist Coverage
What Drivers Pay in California
$318–$437/mo
Typical monthly rate in California, drivers after a speeding ticket
Rate data: ValuePenguin and CarInsurance.com, 2026
What Affects Your Rate
- Time since violation: Rates decrease gradually after 3–5 years with clean driving, though DUI surcharges persist longest
- Urban vs. rural location: Los Angeles and San Francisco drivers face higher base rates and larger violation surcharges than rural California counties
- Carrier type: Non-standard carriers often offer better rates than standard carriers willing to write high-risk policies
- Vehicle type: Older vehicles requiring only liability coverage significantly reduce premiums compared to financed vehicles requiring full coverage
See Who Will Insure You After a Ticket
Find Coverage After a Traffic ViolationCoverage Types
SR-22 Insurance
Certificate of financial responsibility filed by your insurer with the California DMV proving continuous coverage. Required after DUI convictions, license suspensions, and uninsured accidents for a 3-year period without lapse.
Non-Standard Auto Insurance
Policies designed specifically for high-risk drivers including those with DUI convictions, suspended licenses, multiple violations, or lapsed coverage. Non-standard carriers specialize in SR-22 filings and understand the California DMV reinstatement process.
Liability Insurance
Covers injuries and property damage you cause to others in an accident. California requires 15/30/5 minimums, but these limits leave drivers exposed to personal asset claims in serious accidents.
Full Coverage
Combines liability, collision, and comprehensive protection for your vehicle and others. Required by lenders for financed or leased vehicles regardless of driver risk profile.
Uninsured Motorist Coverage
Protects you when hit by a driver without insurance or in hit-and-run accidents. California does not require UM coverage but insurers must offer it at policy purchase.
Collision Coverage
Pays to repair or replace your vehicle after an accident regardless of fault. Required by lenders and valuable for protecting vehicle equity, though high-risk drivers face elevated deductibles.