One year off the road, then three years with proof on file
California's financial responsibility suspension starts with a crash you had to report. You report to the DMV within 10 days when anyone was hurt or killed, or when either side had over $1,000 in damage. If you had no insurance in force, the suspension under CVC §16070 lasts at least one year.
The proof comes after that. The same DMV page says proof of insurance must be filed and maintained for three years once the suspension ends. A restricted license during the suspension does not shorten it. The three years still run after the restriction period is over.
Fault plays no part, even when the other driver caused the crash.
A DUI reissue costs $125 plus proof of insurance
After a DUI suspension or revocation, the DMV reinstates your license once you pay a $125 reissue fee and file proof of financial responsibility. Drivers under 21 suspended under the Zero Tolerance Law pay $100 instead.
The DMV's online reissue fee page lists three amounts. They are a $55 reissue fee, a $125 Admin Per Se reissue fee and a $15 DMV admin fee. Admin Per Se is the DMV's own action after a chemical test.
What 30/60/15 buys you on a California policy
The policy behind the SR 22 must meet the state floor. The DMV lists $30,000 for injury or death to one person, $60,000 for more than one person and $15,000 for property damage. Physical damage cover alone, such as collision, does not count.
The Department of Insurance adds two warnings in its auto insurance guide. Liability does not pay for your own injuries or your household's. Damage above your limits is yours to pay.
If you cannot afford liability insurance, the DMV points to the California Low Cost Automobile Insurance Program. Two other routes exist: a $75,000 cash deposit with the DMV or a $75,000 surety bond. Our SR-22 bond guide explains the bond route.
Your car's registration runs on a separate track
Insurers report private vehicles to the DMV electronically under CVC §16058. The registration side suspends a vehicle when no insurance arrives within 30 days of a registration card. It also suspends one when a cancelled policy is not replaced within 45 days.
To clear it, you send proof and the $14 reinstatement fee. Online, email, kiosk, mail and the automated phone line all work. A field office cannot clear it for you. The card must say "California" at the top, because out-of-state insurers are not accepted.
Tell the DMV before you cancel any policy. A car you are not driving or parking on the road can go on an Affidavit of Non-Use instead.
Ten days to ask for a hearing
A suspension notice gives you a short window. Failing to respond within 10 days of receiving the order waives your right to a financial responsibility hearing.
If you ask in time and the DMV cannot decide within 30 days of mailing the order, the suspension is stayed. The hearing covers three points only: whether you drove or owned the car, the damage or injury, and whether insurance was in effect.