If you’ve been required to file an SR-22 in California, you might be wondering: How long do I have to keep it? The SR-22 isn’t a forever requirement, but failing to maintain it for the necessary period can result in serious consequences, including license suspension and extended penalties.
Let’s break down how long you need an SR-22 in California, what factors can affect your timeline, and how to ensure you meet all requirements without unnecessary delays.
Standard SR-22 Requirement in California
In most cases, California requires drivers to maintain an SR-22 for three years from the date their license is reinstated after a suspension. However, this timeline isn’t the same for everyone—it depends on the reason you were required to file an SR-22 in the first place.
The standard three-year period applies to:
- DUI or reckless driving convictions
- Driving without insurance violations
- At-fault accidents while uninsured
- Too many points on your driving record
It’s important to note that the three-year period begins on the date of license reinstatement—not the date of your violation. This means if there were delays in reinstating your license, your SR-22 requirement would also be delayed. Know that there are state-approved sr22 policies available, so get a quote today.
Factors That Can Affect Your SR-22 Timeline
While three years is the standard timeframe, certain factors can extend (or even shorten) the time you’re required to carry an SR-22.
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Letting Your SR-22 Lapse
If your SR-22 coverage lapses—whether due to a missed payment or policy cancellation—your insurance provider will notify the DMV, and your license will likely be suspended again.
This could result in:
- A reset of your SR-22 period, requiring you to start over from day one.
- Additional fines and fees to reinstate your license.
- Higher insurance premiums when you try to secure new coverage.
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Severity of the Violation
Certain serious offenses, like multiple DUIs, can come with a longer SR-22 requirement. Some drivers may need to carry an SR-22 for up to five years, depending on their driving history and the court’s decision.
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Early Removal for Good Behavior?
Unlike some states that allow early SR-22 removal for good driving, California does not offer any way to shorten your SR-22 period. Regardless of how well you drive, you’ll need to maintain your SR-22 for the full required time.
My SR-22 Has Lapsed – What Should I Do?
Have you discovered that your SR-22 certificate has lapsed? Perhaps you’ve received notification from your insurance company or the DMV.
Even if you’re confused about how this has happened, you don’t want to delay taking action. If you want to continue to drive legally around California, you must act quickly to get your SR-22 certificate. Here’s what you should do.
Contact Your Car Insurance Provider
First, try getting more information from your car insurance provider. They might be able to inform you what’s happened and whether this has impacted your policy. Then, they can help you take the next steps to fix both of these problems.
This can include filing an SR-22 for you and reinstating your insurance policy. There might be some payments to make based on your situation.
Get a New Insurance Provider
In some cases, you might find that the best solution is getting a new insurance provider. Perhaps there’s been an issue and this is going to be the best solution for moving forward.
You want to start this process quickly so that you can get back on the road. Just make sure that they specialize in high-risk drivers and are able to file an SR-22 certification for you.
Do Not Drive
It doesn’t matter if you’re in the process of getting all of this sorted. You shouldn’t be driving your car. If you’re required to have an SR-22 and it’s lapsed, this means that your license is likely suspended.
Therefore, you can’t legally drive. So, don’t get behind the wheel again until you have confirmed your SR-22 and that nothing’s wrong with your car insurance policy.
Final Thoughts: Stay on Track to Complete Your SR-22 Period
In California, most drivers are required to carry an SR-22 for three years, though certain factors like lapses or severe violations can extend the timeline. By staying insured, driving safely, and making on-time payments, you can complete your SR-22 period without issues and move on with a clean driving record.
If you’re unsure about your SR-22 status, always check with the California DMV or your insurance provider to confirm how much time remains. The key to getting through this requirement smoothly? Stay covered, stay compliant, and soon enough, your SR-22 will be a thing of the past!
