Key takeaways
- DUIs can raise your car insurance rates anywhere from 50% to 240%, and some insurance carriers don’t cover drivers with DUIs.
- Many states require an SR-22 filing after a DUI to show you carry the minimum required liability insurance.
- Shopping around and keeping a clean record after a DUI can help lower costs over time. In the meantime, you may still find affordable car insurance options with The General.
What is DUI insurance?
While there isn’t a specific coverage called “DUI insurance,” this term is widely used to refer to car insurance a driver gets after a DUI. It can be more challenging to find an insurer and affordable coverage post-DUI. The General specializes in policies for high-risk drivers, and that includes insuring drivers with a DUI on their driving record.
What is a DUI?
The term DUI stands for “driving under the influence.” Driving under the influence is a criminal offense that’s typically associated with drunk driving, but DUI can also refer to driving under the influence of drugs or certain medications. In some states, driving with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher may result in a DUI charge even if the driver isn’t visibly impaired.
In addition to the term DUI, some states can charge drivers with a DWI, which stands for “driving while intoxicated” or “driving while impaired.” The distinction between a DUI and a DWI can vary, with some states applying DUI primarily to alcohol-related offenses and DWI when drugs or other controlled substances are involved.
The definition of DUI can also expand, like when many states broadened what it means to operate a vehicle. In some places, simply sitting in the driver’s seat with the keys in the ignition while intoxicated may earn you a DUI.
How long does a DUI stay on my driving record?
The length of time a DUI remains on your driving record depends on the state where you live. In most states, DUIs stay on your driving record from 5–10 years, while in others, the violation can stay permanently.
Even if the conviction eventually expires from your driving history, it can still impact your insurance for several years. Insurers typically review the past 3–5 years of your driving record when considering coverage, but serious violations like DUIs may affect your rates for longer, making it harder to find affordable policies.
Tips for getting a DUI off your driving record
If you’re trying to get a DUI off your driving record, there are steps that may help, depending on your state and situation.
- Fulfill all legal obligations. This includes fines, court appearances, classes, and probation terms.
- Maintain insurance coverage. Keeping continuous coverage and practicing safe driving habits could help over time.
- Avoid further violations. Even minor violations can delay reinstatement or affect expungement eligibility.
- Explore expungement options. Seek legal guidance early to understand your state’s expungement options and eligibility timeline.
What happens to my driver’s license after a DUI?
After a DUI, your driver’s license may be suspended or revoked—sometimes immediately after arrest.
You may need to:
- Serve a mandatory suspension period (often 90 days to a year).
- Complete state requirements, such as alcohol education classes or paying reinstatement fees.
- Obtain a restricted license that allows limited driving (for work or school) during the suspension period.
Once your suspension ends, you can apply to reinstate your full license, provided you meet all court and DMV conditions.
How does a DUI affect car insurance?
Here are some of the key ways a DUI might affect your auto insurance:
- High-risk designation: Drivers with one or more DUIs may be classified as high-risk drivers, which can make it harder to qualify for certain policies or preferred rates.
- Higher premiums: A DUI may lead to higher insurance premiums for several years. How much your rate changes can vary by state, insurer, and driving record.
- SR-22 or FR-44 requirement: Many states require drivers with DUIs to carry an SR-22 certificate, which shows you carry the minimum required liability insurance. If your SR-22 gets canceled or lapses for any reason, then the state might suspend your driving privileges. Virginia and Florida require similar documentation called FR-44.
- Policy or preferred rate cancellation: Some discounts or preferred rates may not be valid for drivers with a DUI on their record. Some insurance companies may choose not to renew your policy after a DUI.
How to get car insurance after a DUI
It’s possible to find affordable car insurance coverage after a DUI. One of the most important steps is to work with insurers who specialize in high-risk or non-standard policies, like The General.
These steps can help you find coverage and get back on the road after a DUI:
| Step | Action | Why it helps |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Gather information | Know your state’s minimum coverage requirements, your conviction date, and your current policy details. | Having these ready simplifies getting accurate quotes. |
| 2. Compare multiple quotes | Get quotes from both standard and non-standard insurers that offer coverage for high-risk drivers. | Rates vary by state and insurer—comparison shopping pays off. |
| 3. Ask about discounts | Some insurers still offer safe-driver or loyalty discounts if you’ve kept continuous coverage. | Even small savings help offset higher post-DUI rates. |
| 4. Consider adjusting coverage | Balance affordability with protection by reviewing deductibles and limits. | Avoid dropping below state minimums just to save money. |
| 5. Stay insured and drive safely | Keep your policy active and avoid new violations. | Maintaining continuous coverage and a clean driving record may help lower rates over time. |
Tips to lower your DUI insurance costs
While insurance after a DUI is often more expensive, there are several ways to reduce your costs over time.
- Complete a defensive driving course to potentially lower your rates with certain insurers.
- Bundle your auto insurance with renters or homeowners policies to earn multi-policy discounts.
- Maintain continuous coverage to avoid rate increases caused by insurance lapses.
- Improve your credit score in states where insurers use credit history as a rating factor.
- Drive safely and avoid traffic violations to prevent penalties which may help lower your premiums over time.
Get a free, customized quote today
Finding affordable car insurance after a DUI can feel challenging. The General specializes in helping high-risk drivers find easy, affordable coverage options. With flexible choices and a quick, online application process, The General makes it simple to secure the coverage that fits your needs.
Frequently asked questions
If I get into an accident while intoxicated, am I still covered?
Whether or not your insurance covers you for accidents that occur while you’re intoxicated depends on state rules and your insurer. For more information on The General’s policies, contact us at 1-844-328-0306 or via The General Insurance® App.
How long do I need an SR-22 after a DUI?
After a DUI, you’ll likely have to maintain an SR-22 for at least three years, though the exact period depends on your state’s laws. Staying insured without any gaps is essential to meet the requirement.
How do I get a DUI expunged?
While it’s rare, some states allow expungement or record sealing after a DUI conviction. Because of the severity of the offense, most states won’t allow the violation to be removed from your criminal record.
If expungement is possible, these steps may help:
- Complete all court-ordered penalties (fines, probation, or alcohol education).
- Maintain a clean driving record.
- Petition the court for expungement with help from an attorney.
If approved, expungement may limit public access to the DUI record. How long a DUI remains on your driving record varies by state, but the average is 5-10 years.
What terms should I understand if I need insurance after a DUI?
If you’re navigating insurance requirements after a DUI, here are key terms to know:
| Term | Explanation | When it applies |
|---|---|---|
| DUI (Driving Under the Influence) | Operating a vehicle while impaired by alcohol or drugs. Leads to fines, license suspension, and higher insurance premiums. Often requires filing an SR-22. | Most U.S. states |
| DWI (Driving While Intoxicated or Impaired) | Similar to DUI; some states use DWI instead or define it differently. May lead to higher insurance premiums and strict penalties. | States like Texas, New York, and Missouri |
| OWI (Operating While Intoxicated) | Covers operating any vehicle—car, motorcycle, or boat—while under the influence. | Indiana, Iowa, Wisconsin |
| OUI (Operating Under the Influence) | Equivalent to DUI, used in states such as Massachusetts and Maine. | New England states |
| BAC (Blood Alcohol Concentration) | Measures alcohol percentage in the bloodstream. 0.08% is the legal limit in most states. | Used to determine impairment |
| SR-22 (Certificate of Financial Responsibility) | Filed by your insurer to prove you carry minimum liability coverage. | After DUI, uninsured driving, or license suspension |
| FR-44 (Certificate of Financial Responsibility) | Similar to SR-22 but requires higher coverage limits. Used in Florida and Virginia. | Florida and Virginia |
| IID (Ignition Interlock Device) | A breathalyzer installed in a car that prevents it from starting if alcohol is detected. | Often required after a DUI conviction |
| Restricted License | Allows limited driving (to work, school, or medical visits) while under suspension. | After DUI-related suspension |
| DUI Insurance | A common term used to describe auto insurance coverage after a DUI conviction. | Needed to reinstate or maintain driving privileges |
| Non-Owner SR-22 Policy | Proof of liability coverage for drivers who don’t own a car but must still meet SR-22 requirements. | For drivers without a personal vehicle |
| ALS (Administrative License Suspension) | Administrative license suspension that may occur after failing or refusing a BAC test. | Begins after a DUI arrest |
