DUI Insurance

Get the auto insurance you need to keep driving.

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Can you get auto insurance after a DUI?

Some insurance companies won't cover drivers who have one or more DUI/DWI offenses, considering them too high-risk to insure. However, don’t worry, there are other options for getting auto insurance. At Direct Auto, we specialize in helping drivers with less-than-perfect driving records secure the coverage they need. We can also file an SR-22 or FR-44 with your state and set you up with a plan that meets your budget.

What is DUI insurance?

After a conviction for driving under the influence (DUI) or driving while impaired (DWI) (terminology varies by state) you may search for "DUI insurance" to find an insurer that will help you get back on the road. However, there’s really no special policy called DUI insurance. It’s just a standard auto policy, commonly accompanied by an SR-22 or FR-44 filing for a certain period to prove you are meeting your state’s minimum requirements.

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Does a DUI/DWI affect insurance rates?

A DUI/DWI will typically raise your car insurance premium for at least three years, depending on your state and insurance provider. The exact increase will vary based on how your insurer calculates rates, your overall driving history, and other personal factors. At Direct Auto, we strive to offer affordable auto insurance through multiple discount options and flexible payment plans.

State-specific DUI/DWI laws

Most states define driving with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) at or above 0.08% as a crime, but specific DUI/DWI laws and penalties beyond that vary by state. For example, in California, a first offense will result in a four-month license suspension while in Virginia it is seven days. In general, each state has its own DUI/DWI laws for the following:

Fines
Driver's license suspension periods
Minimum required jail sentence
Mandatory alcohol education or assessment and treatment
Vehicle confiscation or forfeiture possible
Ignition interlock device required

After a DUI/DWI, many states require an SR22/FR44 to reinstate driving privileges. Get a personalized car insurance quote, and we'll handle this state filing on your behalf.

DUI Insurance Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a DUI stay on your driving record?

Every state handles DUI/DWI records differently. They usually remain on someone's criminal record permanently but can stay on a driver's record for anywhere from five years to a lifetime. For instance, In Mississippi, a DUI stays on your record for five years, ten years in California, 75 years in Florida, and permanently in Texas. The good news is that a DUI/DWI conviction typically does not impact your insurance rates forever. Insurance companies typically review your driving history for the past three to five years, though they may sometimes look back even further. Meaning, the impact of a DUI/DWI on your insurance rates can lessen over time.

Am I insured if I get into an accident while under the influence?

Auto insurance policies provide coverage for various types of accidents, including those caused by drunk driving. The specifics of what is covered depend on your policy details, including the types of coverage you have, who was at fault, and the laws in your state. However, after a DUI/DWI incident, some insurance companies may decide to cancel your policy or choose not to renew it. To avoid any gaps in coverage, it is important to have another policy in place if this occurs.

What happens if I get a second or a third DUI?

After receiving a second or third DUI/DWI, the consequences can be much more severe than a first offense. Repeat offenses often result in increased penalties, longer jail sentences, higher fines, extended license suspensions, and mandatory treatment programs. While your car insurance premiums may significantly increase following these offenses, they will gradually decrease again after several years of safe driving.

Do I have to report my DUI/DWI to my insurer?

While it is not legally required to report a DUI/DWI conviction to your current insurance provider, they will eventually find out about it when they renew or review your policy. Additionally, your insurance company will become aware of the offense if you need to file an SR-22 or FR-44 form. When applying for a new insurance policy, you may be asked questions about any alcohol-related violations. Be sure to report your DUI/DWI; otherwise, your policy could be canceled for misrepresentation.