Driving Without Insurance in California

Quick Answer

What happens if you are caught

California requires every driver to carry liability insurance or another form of financial responsibility, currently at least 30/60/15, and to show proof when an officer asks, after an accident, and when registering a vehicle.

The Real Cost

Why an uninsured accident is so expensive

Step 1. You pay for the damage yourself

If you cause an accident, you are personally responsible for the other driver’s car repairs, medical bills and lost wages. With today’s repair and hospital costs, a single at-fault accident can easily reach five figures, and the other driver’s insurer can sue you to recover what it paid.

Step 2. Your license can be suspended

Any accident with an injury, death or more than $1,000 in damage must be reported to the DMV on an SR-1 within 10 days. If you did not have insurance, the DMV can suspend your license for up to a year. Getting it back usually requires an SR-22 filing kept on file for three years.

Step 3. You can lose pain-and-suffering damages

Under Proposition 213, an uninsured driver generally cannot collect non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering, even when the other driver caused the crash. You can still pursue medical bills and other out-of-pocket losses.

Step 4. Your registration can be affected

Insurers report coverage to the DMV. A lapse can lead to a registration suspension, and you will need proof of insurance to renew.

Getting Legal

How to get insured fast, whatever your situation

Most people we help were uninsured because they thought they could not qualify or could not afford it. Usually neither is true:

• AB 60 license: many carriers accept it at standard rates. See car insurance with an AB 60 license.
• No license yet: some carriers can still write a policy for the car with a licensed driver listed. Call and we will tell you your options.
• Suspended license or DUI: we file SR-22s electronically, often the same day.
• Tickets or accidents: we work with carriers that specialize in high-risk drivers.
• No car of your own: a non-owner policy covers you when you borrow cars.
• Tight budget: we compare 30+ carriers for the lowest legal price, and can tell you if the state’s Low Cost Auto program might fit.

Common Questions

Driving without insurance questions

What is the fine for driving without insurance in California?

For a first conviction under Vehicle Code 16029, $100 to $200 plus penalty assessments. For a second conviction within three years, $200 to $500 plus assessments, and the court may order the vehicle impounded.

Will my license be suspended for driving without insurance?

A ticket alone usually means fines. But if you are in a reportable accident without insurance, the DMV can suspend your license for up to a year, and you will usually need an SR-22 to get it back.

Can I collect damages if I was uninsured and the other driver was at fault?

You can generally recover economic losses such as medical bills and car repairs, but Proposition 213 bars uninsured drivers from collecting non-economic damages like pain and suffering in most cases.

Can I get car insurance without a driver license in California?

Some carriers can write a policy when the vehicle owner is unlicensed and a licensed driver is listed, and many accept AB 60 licenses. Call us and we will tell you which carriers fit your situation.

How fast can I get insurance?

Usually the same day. Bring your ID and vehicle information to either office or call (209) 523-9100, and we can often bind coverage and give you proof right away.