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Finding affordable car insurance is challenging with a DUI conviction because insurance companies consider drivers with a DUI risky to insure. Some companies won’t offer coverage, and those that do will charge higher rates than for drivers with a clean record. Some states require the filing of a special form to show proof of coverage.
Given the legal and emotional fallout after a DUI, it’s understandable to feel overwhelmed. But getting insured is doable, and it’s a critical step for getting back on the road legally.
The keys to finding coverage are understanding the legal requirements in your state, shopping around to find companies that insure higher-risk drivers, and comparing rates among multiple insurers to score the best deal.
Here’s what to expect and how to get insured following a DUI.
How a DUI impacts your car insurance rates
Whether you stick with your current company or switch to another one, your car insurance rates will go up.
Your current insurance company might drop you as a customer at policy renewal time because of the DUI, also known as DWI (driving while intoxicated), OVI (operating a vehicle impaired), or OWI (operating while intoxicated), depending on the state. In that case, you’ll have to shop for a different insurer.
Learn more: What is the difference between DUI and DWI?
The amount of the increase will depend on a variety of factors, including where you live. Insurance quote comparison sites estimate that rates will go up anywhere from about 30% to more than 100%, depending on the insurer.
Progressive says it raises rates by an average of about 13% in most states after one DUI. But that average excludes 14 states.
If you have other infractions besides a DUI, such as an at-fault accident or speeding ticket, these will also result in higher car insurance costs.
Learn more: How much does car insurance increase after an accident?
How long a DUI stays on your record
In most states, a DUI will stay on your driving record for three to five years, according to Progressive. In Nevada and California, a DUI will remain for 10 years.
Your rates will likely come down after a few years if you maintain a clean driving record, but additional DUIs or other driving violations will keep your rates high longer.
SR-22 and FR-44 requirements
Most states require that your insurer file an SR-22 form with the state to prove you consistently meet minimum coverage requirements after a DUI. In Virginia and Florida, instead of an SR-22, you’ll need to file a similar form called an FR-44 if you have a DUI conviction. Some states, like New York, don’t require you to file an SR-22 or FR-44, though you can still expect higher insurance rates for serious driving violations.
Typically, an FR-44 or SR-22 filing will need to be in place for at least three years following a DUI conviction, though requirements vary by state. Once you’ve met your state’s requirements, you can request that your insurance company remove the form from your record.
Tips for finding cheap car insurance rates after a DUI
While the cost of car insurance will be higher with a DUI, and a DUI will stick to your driving record for at least a few years, there are some things you can do to keep rates as low as possible both now and down the road.
Here are nine tips for finding the cheapest car insurance following a DUI.
No. 1: Understand your state’s requirements
Learn whether your state requires the filing an SR-22 or FR-44 form, which shows that you’re maintaining at least the minimum required insurance.
Read more: Minimum car insurance requirements in all 50 states
If you need an SR-22 or FR-44 form, ask insurers from the start if they accept drivers who require the form.
No. 2: Don’t lie about the DUI
Don’t don’t try to hide the DUI from the insurance company or an insurance agent. The insurer will find out about the violation if you have to file an SR-22 or FR-44 form. Insurers can also find out when checking your motor vehicle record to determine your insurance rate. If the company learns later that you lied about the DUI on the insurance application, it could cancel your policy.
No. 3: Compare multiple quotes
Online insurance calculators and rate comparison tools let you view quotes from multiple insurance companies in one place. These tools can help save you time as you shop for a new policy.
You can also go directly to insurers for quotes. Many major companies, including Progressive, State Farm, GEICO, Allstate, USAA, The General, and Erie, all offer policies to higher-risk drivers. You can start an application online or speak with insurance agents to obtain quotes and compare rates.
Learn more: How to shop for car insurance
No. 4: Get help from an independent insurance agent
An independent agent sells coverage from multiple companies. The agent will know which insurers cover high-risk drivers, will get quotes on your behalf, and will recommend the best deal.
No. 5: Seek discounts
Many insurers offer discounts, which may be accessible despite your DUI. For instance, bundling multiple policies like your homeowners and auto insurance with the same provider could help you save on your premiums. Other common ones include safe vehicle, good grades, low-mileage, and good driver discounts.
Read more: Car insurance discounts: 17 ways to save
No. 6: Maintain a clean driving record
Maintaining a squeaky-clean driving record is the best way to reduce your rates over time.
No. 7: Take a defensive driving course
Many insurance companies offer safe driving discounts if you complete a defensive driving course.
No. 8: Improve your credit score
Your credit history is sometimes used as a factor in setting individual insurance rates. The lowest rates are often reserved for individuals with excellent credit or good credit because they’re deemed as less risky to insure. Note that some states prohibit the use of credit as a rating factor.
No. 9: Shop around for new coverage annually
If your DUI is a few years in the past, it’s possible a new insurer may offer you better rates. Shopping around every year is worth it to see if you can get cheaper car insurance.
Learn more: 6 steps to find cheap car insurance in 2025
DUI car insurance FAQs
What is DUI car insurance?
“DUI car insurance” is a shorthand term used to advertise coverage for drivers with DUIs. There is no such thing as a DUI car insurance policy.
What is SR-22 insurance?
SR-22 is a special form that many states require insurance companies to file if you have a DUI. SR-22 insurance is not a policy; it simply refers to insurance offered by companies that will file the form for drivers who need it.
How much will car insurance go up after a DUI?
Car insurance rates will increase anywhere from almost 30% to more than 100% on average, according to a sampling of several insurance quote comparison sites. The amount of the rate hike will depend on where you live and the insurance company.
Does car insurance cover accidents involving a DUI?
Yes, car insurance covers accidents even if a DUI is involved. The coverage is according to the policy’s terms and limits.
This article was edited by Tim Manni.
Barbara Marquand contributed to this article.
