A DUI (Driving Under the Influence) or serious traffic violation can have a lasting impact on your driving record—and your wallet. One of the biggest challenges drivers face after such offenses is getting affordable car insurance. But while your premiums will likely increase, you’re not out of options.
This article explains how a DUI or major traffic violation affects your insurance, how to find coverage afterward, and steps you can take to reduce costs and repair your record over time.
The Impact of a DUI or Major Traffic Violation on Car Insurance
Insurers base premiums on risk. When you’re convicted of a DUI, reckless driving, or multiple speeding tickets, you’re flagged as a high-risk driver. This means:
- Higher premiums — sometimes two to three times your previous rate
- Policy cancellation or non-renewal by your current insurer
- Limited options when shopping for new coverage
- Mandatory filings such as SR-22 or FR-44 in some states
How Long Will It Affect You?
- Most DUI convictions remain on your driving record for 3 to 10 years, depending on your state.
- Some insurers consider violations in your premium calculation for 3–5 years.
- After a clean driving record over time, you can gradually qualify for lower rates again.
Step-by-Step: How to Get Car Insurance After a DUI or Traffic Violation
1. Don’t Let Coverage Lapse
After a DUI or major violation, your current insurer may drop you. It’s critical to avoid a gap in coverage, as it further raises your risk profile and limits your options.
What to do:
- Contact your current insurer immediately to see if they’ll continue coverage (many won’t after a DUI).
- If dropped, begin shopping for a new policy before your current one ends.
2. Understand SR-22 or FR-44 Requirements
In many states, a DUI or reckless driving conviction requires your insurer to file an SR-22 (or FR-44 in some states like Florida and Virginia) with the DMV. This form certifies you have the state’s minimum required liability insurance.
Key facts about SR-22/FR-44:
- It’s not a type of insurance, but a certificate.
- It must be filed by your insurer—not by you.
- It typically must be maintained for 3 to 5 years.
- If your policy lapses, your insurer will notify the state, and your license may be suspended.
When shopping for a new policy, make sure the insurer is authorized to file SR-22 or FR-44 forms in your state.
3. Shop Around for High-Risk Auto Insurance
Not all insurers are willing to cover drivers with a DUI or serious violation. However, there are companies that specialize in high-risk auto insurance.
Best ways to find coverage:
- Use comparison websites that include high-risk providers.
- Work with an independent insurance agent who has access to multiple insurers.
- Contact specialty insurers directly, such as:
- The General
- Dairyland
- Infinity
- Bristol West
- National General
Tip: Not all high-risk insurers offer the same rates—so comparing at least 3–5 quotes is essential.
4. Expect Higher Premiums—but Know What’s “Normal”
After a DUI, premiums can double or triple, depending on:
- Your age and location
- The severity of the offense
- Your driving history
- Whether it was your first or repeated offense
Example:
A driver paying $120/month before a DUI might pay $250–$400/month afterward.
While this is frustrating, it won’t last forever. Most violations “fall off” your record after 3–5 years with clean driving.
5. Consider Policy Adjustments to Lower Costs
If your premiums are too high, here are some ways to reduce them:
a. Choose a higher deductible
- Raising your deductible from $500 to $1,000 can lower your monthly payment.
b. Drive a modest vehicle
- High-performance or luxury vehicles are more expensive to insure.
- Switch to a reliable, safe car with good crash ratings and lower repair costs.
c. Limit coverage (cautiously)
- If your car is older, you might drop comprehensive and collision coverage.
- Be sure you can afford repairs or replacement if you’re not fully covered.
6. Take a Defensive Driving Course
Many states allow drivers with violations to take a state-approved driving or DUI education course. Completing one may:
- Satisfy court or DMV requirements
- Help remove points from your driving record
- Qualify you for insurance discounts (up to 10–15%)
Ask your insurer if they offer discounts for such courses and which ones they recognize.
7. Bundle Insurance Policies
If you need renters or homeowners insurance, bundle them with your auto insurance for a discount. Even high-risk insurers often offer bundling incentives that reduce your overall premiums.
8. Enroll in Usage-Based Insurance (Telematics)
Some insurers offer pay-how-you-drive programs using mobile apps or plug-in devices to monitor driving habits. Safe drivers may qualify for discounts even after a DUI.
These programs track:
- Speed
- Braking patterns
- Time of day driving
- Mileage
Examples:
- Progressive’s Snapshot
- State Farm’s Drive Safe & Save
- Allstate’s Drivewise
What If No Insurer Will Cover You?
If you can’t find private coverage, your state’s assigned-risk pool may be your last resort. Every state offers a residual market program that guarantees coverage for drivers who’ve been denied elsewhere.
While these policies are usually expensive, they:
- Fulfill legal driving requirements
- Allow you to work on improving your record
- Provide a pathway back to standard insurance later
Contact your state’s department of insurance or the Automobile Insurance Plan Service Office (AIPSO) for more information.
Rebuilding Your Driving Record After a DUI
While the immediate aftermath of a DUI or major violation is tough, it’s not permanent. You can restore your driving record with time and effort:
1. Avoid any new violations
Drive carefully, obey traffic laws, and stay alcohol-free behind the wheel.
2. Maintain continuous insurance coverage
Gaps in coverage can hurt you further. Keep your policy active, even if you’re not driving much.
3. Monitor your driving record
Check your DMV record annually. Once the violation ages off your report (usually after 3–5 years), you’ll qualify for lower rates.
4. Request reassessment
Once your record is clean, ask your insurer to reassess your rate or start shopping for better coverage options.
Final Thoughts
A DUI or serious traffic violation doesn’t have to mean the end of affordable car insurance. While your premiums will go up and your options may be limited at first, there are still clear steps you can take to find coverage, lower your costs, and rebuild your record.
By staying insured, driving responsibly, and shopping around for the right insurer, you can get back on the road—and back on track.