Restricted License Insurance — California
California requires 30/60/15 liability coverage and is an at-fault state.
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California 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
$55
State license reinstatement fee
Source: state DMV, insurance department and statute records, verified July 2026
Minimum Coverage Requirements in California
California operates under a tort liability system, requiring all drivers to carry proof of financial responsibility. The California Department of Motor Vehicles issues an IID Restricted License administratively after DUI suspension — one of the most accessible restricted-license programs in the country, with no court hearing required for first-offense DUI. SR-22 filing is mandatory for 3 years from the conviction date, and an ignition interlock device must remain installed throughout the 12-month restricted license period.
Liability Insurance
SR-22 Certificate of Financial Responsibility
Uninsured Motorist Coverage
Ignition Interlock Device Requirement
Comprehensive and Collision Coverage
What Drivers Pay in California
$272–$620/mo
Typical monthly rate in California, high-risk drivers after a DUI
Rate data: ValuePenguin and Insurify, 2026
What Affects Your Rate
- Carriers offering restricted-license policies in California include The General, Bristol West, Acceptance Insurance, Direct Auto, and GAINSCO — Progressive and GEICO write SR-22 in California but often non-renew after the first IID violation or late payment.
Get Insured on Your Restricted License
Get My Restricted License Insurance QuoteIf your license is suspended
Restricted driver license
A restricted license is available while suspended.
A coverage lapse is reported
The state can act when your insurance lapses.
Source: state DMV, insurance department and statute records, verified July 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do I need an ignition interlock device in California?
California's IID Restricted License requires the ignition interlock device for a minimum of 12 months for first-offense DUI. Second and subsequent offenses extend the IID requirement to 2–3 years. The device must remain installed and operational throughout the restricted period — removal before the DMV-approved end date results in immediate license re-suspension.
Which insurance companies write SR-22 policies for California restricted license holders?
Carriers serving California restricted-license holders include The General, Bristol West, Acceptance Insurance, Direct Auto, and GAINSCO. Progressive and GEICO write SR-22 in California but often non-renew after the first IID violation or late payment. Specialty high-risk carriers typically offer more stable coverage for the full 3-year SR-22 period.
Does California's IID Restricted License let me drive to work and back only?
No. California's IID Restricted License allows unrestricted driving — to work, school, medical appointments, grocery shopping, anywhere — as long as you drive a vehicle equipped with a certified ignition interlock device and maintain continuous SR-22 insurance. This differs from restricted licenses in other states that limit driving to specific routes or hours.
Coverage Types
SR-22 for IID Restricted License
SR-22 is a certificate of financial responsibility your carrier files with the California DMV proving you maintain continuous coverage. The filing fee is $15–$35, but the high-risk classification increases your premium by 80–150%.
Non-Owner SR-22 Insurance
Non-owner SR-22 policies provide liability coverage when you drive vehicles you do not own, satisfying California's SR-22 requirement without insuring a specific vehicle. Costs $40–$80/month for state minimum limits.
Uninsured Motorist Coverage
Uninsured motorist coverage pays your medical bills and vehicle damage when an at-fault driver has no insurance or insufficient limits. California carriers must offer it at limits matching your liability coverage.
Comprehensive and Collision Coverage
Comprehensive covers theft, vandalism, weather, and animal strikes; collision covers damage from accidents regardless of fault. Both carry a deductible ($500–$1,000 typical) and are required by lenders.
Full Coverage for High-Risk Drivers
Full coverage combines liability, uninsured motorist, comprehensive, collision, and SR-22 filing into a single policy meeting both legal requirements and lender mandates. Costs $280–$480/month for restricted-license holders in California.