If you have had your license suspended or revoked after a DUI, you will eventually be told you need an insurance form called an SR-22. The SR-22 is not a form you fill out; it’s a certificate from your car insurance provider showing that you have adequate insurance to meet state rules.
You will need an SR-22 if you want to:
- Obtain a restricted drivers license to drive to work while your license is suspended
- Reinstate your license after the suspension period is over
Effectively, you cannot drive again until you have shown the DMV a form SR-22.
Why does California require an SR-22?
Most drivers carry proof of insurance, but California still requires this separate form if you’ve had a DUI. The reasons is that most car insurance providers will charge higher rates for drivers who have a DUI arrest, and some will even cancel your insurance. This gives DUI drivers an incentive to lie about their insurance, and the SR-22 prevents that.
With the SR-22, the state knows that:
- You have adequate car insurance
- You didn’t cancel your insurance to avoid high rates
- Your insurance has not been revoked because of your DUI
How do I get an SR-22?
You need to ask your insurance company. Issuing the SR-22 will typically carry an extra fee, and your insurance rates will typically go up once you tell your insurer about you DUI.
Is there any way to avoid getting an SR-22?
Yes. A DUI lawyer may be able to help you fight your suspension and potentially even win your DUI case. If your license is not suspended, you do not need an SR-22 and you may even avoid the insurance hike.
Have you been charged with DUI? We can connect you with an experienced Los Angeles DUI lawyer and get you a FREE consultation. Fill out the form to the right or call (310) 896-2724 and get your free consultation today.
