How do I get a Restricted License ? (1)
To get a restricted license after being suspended for a first time DUI, assuming you are over 21 years, is:
1. Pay DMV a re-issue fee of $125;
2. Show proof of financial responsibility (Form SR-22) Must be Maintained for 3 years;
3. Show proof of enrollment in a DUI approved Program (AB-541 or SB-762)
Other situations where you will need to show an SR-22 to the DMV to have your license returned:
1. Those convicted in the court of a DUI and sent to a DUI school. If the four months is not up by the time the DMV receives notice from the court of your conviction, then the requirement to show an SR-22 goes into effect.
2. Those who had their licenses restricted by the court for a DUI or "Wet Reckless". Proof of insurance must be maintained for a period of three years (from the date the original 4 month suspension would have been up). Proof of insurance WILL stay active (and you need not re-submit an SR-22) if you do not cancel the policy or get dropped during the 3 year period. The insurance policy that the SR-22 is filed under must remain in effect. If for any reason your policy is no longer in effect the insurance carrier is REQUIRED to notify the DMV. The DMV will then notify you that by a certain date you will have to file another SR-22 with them or your license will be suspended.
SR-22's are associated with and normally required for the following driving related issues:
At the time of reinstating your driving privileges following a DUII suspension
You failed to provide proof to DMV that you have liability insurance
You’ve been involved in an uninsured accident
Repeat traffic offenses or getting too many tickets in a short time period
License suspension or revoked license
You are applying for a hardship or probationary permit
State Specific
SR-22's are state specific so a California SR-22 will only be valid for California. So if you move to another state you may need a different SR-22 to show proof of financial responsibility in that state.
An SR26 form cancels the SR22 once future proof is no longer required.
How much insurance am I supposed to carry in California ?
The minimum liability insurance coverage required for private passenger vehicles per accident is $35,000 and is defined by the following levels of coverage:
$15,000 for injury/death to one person.
$30,000 for injury/death to more than one person.
$5,000 for damage to property.