Can I get car insurance after a DUI?

A DUI, or DWI, can cause major issues with your auto insurance. If you are convicted of a DUI/DWI, it’s important to know how this affects your car insurance eligibility and your wallet.

First, it’s important to know that you can not get car insurance if you are not a licensed driver. So, if your license is revoked because of a DUI or DWI you will not be able to attain car insurance at all. Likewise, if you are married or living in a household with an insured driver, their rates may go up- or coverage could change-since you are an at-risk driver with access to their vehicle.

In order to have your licensed reinstated, you will have to meet your state DMV requirements and you will most likely be required to submit an SR-22 form. An SR-22 form is proof from your insurance company that you carry a certain type of liability coverage.

Once your licensed is reinstated, your car insurance company must offer liability coverage for you and your vehicle; however, they can deny full coverage which includes comprehensive and collision coverage.

And now for the million dollar question:

How much will I have to pay?

A DUI, DWI will add considerable points to your license. Points are accumulated on your driving record every time you are convicted of a traffic offense. Points may stay on your driving record for 2-6 years depending on the state you are licensed in. The amount of points you accumulate for your DUI/DWI offense can range from 10-12 points depending, again, on the state where you reside.

Any time points begin accumulating on your driving record, you can expect to see an increase in your car insurance premiums. The premium increase for DUI/DWI offenders is typically considerable but depends on your specific driving record and the policies of your car insurance company. However, premium increases may be anywhere from $500- $2000/year.

Most car insurance companies will charge you for the DUI/DWI points on your license for a total of 3 years from the date of offense. However, you may see increased rates for up to 5 years after your offense as you will most likely not be eligible for ‘safe driver’ discounts during that time.

The best way to find out how a DUI/DWI can affect your car insurance is to speak with your auto insurance agent. They will be able to give you specific information regarding your driving record and premiums.