DUI and car insurance in California
What a DUI means for your insurance, the SR-22, and how to get covered again.
What happens to your insurance after a DUI
A DUI conviction usually triggers two things: a requirement to file an SR-22 to prove financial responsibility, and a significant premium increase. Some standard carriers will non-renew or decline you outright, which is where non-standard markets come in.
The SR-22 requirement
An SR-22 is a certificate your insurer files with the DMV. In California it is typically required for three years, and you must keep continuous coverage the whole time or risk restarting the clock. Not all carriers file SR-22s; we work with the ones that do.
Finding affordable coverage after a DUI
- Shop non-standard carriers that specialize in DUI drivers
- Keep coverage continuous to avoid restarting the SR-22 period
- Capture every available discount
- Re-shop as the DUI ages and your record improves
Frequently asked questions
How long does a DUI affect insurance in California?
A DUI typically affects your rate and SR-22 requirement for about three years, though the exact impact depends on the carrier and your overall record. Rates usually ease as the violation ages.
Do I need an SR-22 after a DUI?
In most California DUI cases, yes. Your insurer files the SR-22 with the DMV to prove you carry the required liability coverage, generally for three years of continuous coverage.
Can I still get insurance after a DUI?
Yes. Non-standard carriers specialize in DUI drivers. An independent broker shops these markets to find coverage and often files the SR-22 the same day.
Get your free quote
Turned down elsewhere? That is exactly who we help. Tell us what you need and a licensed California agent will reach out with real options.
Prefer to talk? Call (800) 555-0100.