Understand Insurance After a DUI
Get charged with a DUI, and you typically lose your license for one to six months. Your auto insurance coverage and rates will also be affected. Learn what you can do to find coverage and earn more affordable insurance rates after a DUI.
Every state has strict laws that prohibit driving under the influence, and each insurer evaluates risk differently. Some companies punish at-fault accidents more severely than DUIs, while others treat DUIs as a top-tier violation.
Typical factors insurers consider
- Age
- Marital status
- Credit rating
- Employment status
- Driving history
- Other violations (speeding, recklessness, drug possession) that occurred at the time you received the DUI
After a DUI, your insurance company will review these factors and decide whether to increase your premium or drop your coverage.
How to qualify for insurance after a DUI
If your current policy is significantly raised or canceled, you can still shop for coverage. Contact national and local Insurance carriers, and ask for free quotes.
To ensure accurate quotes, be truthful about details such as age, marital status, address and traffic violations, including your DUI. Use the same coverage limits for each quote so you can compare offers directly.
Investigate SR-22 proof of insurance
Many DUI offenders use an SR-22 form to verify they have the required insurance. The SR-22 is intended for drivers with serious violations such as DUIs, violent crashes or excessive speed, and it demonstrates to the state that you carry the minimum required coverage.
The SR-22 is filed with your state's department of motor vehicles or licensing by you or your insurance agent, and it is often required for up to three years after a suspension.
Lower your rates after a DUI
Maintaining a clean driving record after a DUI and keeping your credit score in good shape will help your rates fall over time. You can also request a new quote each year as circumstances change.
Notify your insurer when you move, buy a different vehicle, or change jobs; those updates can sometimes reduce premiums. If you own a specialty vehicle, consider options like Collector Car Insurance that may affect your overall cost and coverage choices.
While obtaining auto insurance after a DUI can be challenging, it is not impossible—try these tips and talk to your agent about other options that might help you find the coverage you need.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long will a DUI affect my insurance rates?
Insurance penalties vary by state and insurer, but DUIs commonly affect rates for several years; some consequences, like SR-22 requirements, may last up to three years.
What is an SR-22 and do I need one after a DUI?
An SR-22 is a certificate your insurer files with the state proving you have the required coverage; states often require it after serious violations such as DUIs.
Can I get covered if my current insurer cancels me after a DUI?
Yes—many drivers find alternative coverage by shopping around with different carriers and independent agents who specialize in higher-risk drivers.
What steps help reduce my insurance costs after a DUI?
Keeping a clean driving record, maintaining good credit, updating your policy when circumstances change, and requesting annual quotes can help lower costs over time.