SR22 State

How to get your license reinstated in California

Checked against official California sources · Last reviewed October 5, 2026

Getting a suspended or revoked California license back means finding out why it was suspended, meeting the DMV's requirements, paying the reissue fee, and, in many cases, having an SR-22 filed. The California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) handles reinstatement. [1][2]

SR-22 required?
Yes
Base reinstatement fee
$55
Keep SR-22 for
3 years

Step by step

  1. Find out why you are suspended

    Request your driver record online from the DMV. It shows the reason for your suspension, which decides the steps and fees that apply to you. [2]

    Suspensions ↗

  2. Have your insurer file an SR-22, if required

    A DUI, a collision without insurance, and reinstating after other suspensions or revocations call for a California Insurance Proof Certificate (SR 22). You usually keep it for 3 years from the first date you file it. An operator's policy can cover you if you don't own a vehicle. [1][3]

  3. Pay the reissue fee

    The reissue fee is $55, or $125 after a DUI administrative per se (APS) suspension. You can pay online only if a DMV representative tells you to. Otherwise, pay at a DMV office, in line or by appointment. [2][4][5]

    Driver's license reinstatement fees ↗

  4. Keep your insurance in force

    Your insurer must tell the DMV if your policy is canceled. The DMV then suspends your driving privilege until you file new proof of insurance. [6]

After a DUI arrest or conviction

  1. Request a DMV hearing within 10 days, if you want one

    You have 10 days from getting the suspension or revocation order to ask the DMV for a hearing. If your license was otherwise valid, you can drive for 30 days from the date of the order. [7]

    Driving Under the Influence ↗

  2. Ask about a restricted license or ignition interlock

    You may apply for an ignition interlock device (IID) or a restricted license to drive to and from work. The options differ for first and repeat offenders, and a restricted license can't be decided at the DMV hearing. For a second DUI within 10 years, the DMV asks for proof of enrollment in a DUI treatment program, proof of insurance, and a $100 reissue fee paid one year after the suspension takes effect. [7]

  3. Reinstate when the suspension ends

    Your license is reinstated at the end of the suspension or revocation if you pay a $125 reissue fee ($100 if you were under 21 when suspended) and file proof of insurance. The SR-22 is required for 3 years, including for repeat DUI offenders. [7][8]

Not legal advice. Rules change; confirm your own requirements with California DMV: the Mandatory Actions Unit handles DUI-related proof; the Financial Responsibility unit handles uninsured-accident suspensions before you drive.

SR-22 rules in California · If your SR-22 lapses · Reinstatement in other states

Sources

  1. California DMV - DL 300, California Proof Requirements for Non-Residents (REV. 12/2024) (official agency page, accessed Oct 5, 2026)
  2. California DMV - Suspensions (official agency page, accessed Oct 5, 2026)
  3. California Vehicle Code 16452 - Operator's policy (statute, accessed Oct 5, 2026)
  4. California DMV - Driver's license reinstatement fees (online payment page) (official agency page, accessed Oct 5, 2026)
  5. California DMV Virtual Office - Reissue Fees (official agency page, accessed Oct 6, 2026)
  6. California Vehicle Code 16484 - Suspension when proof no longer fulfills its purpose (statute, accessed Oct 5, 2026)
  7. California DMV - Driving Under the Influence (DUI) (official agency page, accessed Oct 6, 2026)
  8. California DMV - DUI Repeat Offenders, Alcohol Involved, 21 and Older (flyer) (official agency page, accessed Oct 5, 2026)

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