States › California
California: SR-22 and DUI license rules
Form: SR-22 Agency: California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) · checked Oct 24, 2026
California calls the SR-22 a California Insurance Proof Certificate (SR 22/SR 1P). After a DUI, the DMV asks for it before it issues a restricted license and before it reinstates your license.Source: dmv.ca.gov, checked Oct 24, 2026
Key rules
| SR-22 / FR-44 used? | Yes. The California Insurance Proof Certificate (SR 22/SR 1P), filed by your insurer. A $75,000 surety bond or a $75,000 cash deposit with DMV are also accepted as proof.Source: dmv.ca.gov, checked Oct 24, 2026 |
|---|---|
| How long you must keep it on file | Usually 3 years from the first date you file proof to end the suspension or revocation.Source: dmv.ca.gov, checked Oct 24, 2026 |
| Minimum liability limits | $30,000 injury/death to one person, $60,000 injury/death to more than one person, $15,000 property damage.Source: dmv.ca.gov, checked Oct 24, 2026 |
| License suspension, 1st DUI | Administrative (APS) suspension after arrest, age 21+, BAC 0.08% or more: 4 months for a first offense. A DUI conviction brings a separate DMV suspension or revocation of 6 months to 5 years.Source: dmv.ca.gov, checked Oct 24, 2026 |
| License suspension, 1st chemical test refusal | 1 year suspension for a first refusal (age 21+). 2-year revocation for a second refusal within 10 years.Source: dmv.ca.gov, checked Oct 24, 2026 |
| Reinstatement fee | $125 reissue fee ($100 if under 21 and suspended under the Zero Tolerance Law).Source: dmv.ca.gov, checked Oct 24, 2026 |
| Ignition interlock | First-time alcohol DUI without injury: a court may order an IID for up to 6 months; otherwise IID is optional. Repeat and injury DUI offenders (alcohol) must install an IID for 1 to 4 years under the Statewide IID Pilot Program (offenses Jan 1, 2019 to Dec 31, 2032).Source: dmv.ca.gov, checked Oct 24, 2026 |
| Hardship / restricted license | Yes. After a mandatory 30-day suspension and the $125 fee, a first offender may request a restricted license to drive to, from and during work. Or apply right away for an IID-restricted license (drive anywhere in a vehicle with an IID).Source: dmv.ca.gov, checked Oct 24, 2026 |
How to reinstate (official steps)
- Serve the suspension or revocation (or hold a restricted license for the required period).Source: dmv.ca.gov, checked Oct 24, 2026
- Complete the DUI program and give DMV proof of completion.Source: dmv.ca.gov, checked Oct 24, 2026
- Have your insurer file a California Insurance Proof Certificate (SR 22).Source: dmv.ca.gov, checked Oct 24, 2026
- Pay the $125 reissue fee.Source: dmv.ca.gov, checked Oct 24, 2026
- Clear any other suspensions or revocations on your record.Source: dmv.ca.gov, checked Oct 24, 2026
Notes
- You have 10 days from receiving the suspension or revocation order to request a DMV hearing.Source: dmv.ca.gov, checked Oct 24, 2026
Official links
- California DMV: Driving Under the Influence
- Statewide Ignition Interlock Device Pilot Program
- California auto insurance requirements
Not legal advice. Not an insurer. This page summarizes California’s own published rules for a typical first offense. Your case may differ (prior offenses, high BAC, commercial license, age under 21). Confirm with California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or the court before you act. We don’t sell insurance or quote prices. Spot an error? Email toffee@mail.grokbot.com.