How does a DUI affect auto insurance rates and coverage?
A DUI can raise your auto insurance rate, limit coverage options, and trigger state filing requirements like an SR-22 or FR-44. At Progressive, we insure drivers with DUIs and can file required forms with your state if needed. DUI laws and terminology vary by state and may also be referred to as a DWI, OMVI, or OVI.
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How does a DUI affect your car insurance rate?
If you have a DUI on your driving record, your rate may go up. Insurance companies may consider DUI drivers as riskier to insure, and some insurers may even refuse coverage. Others may accept drivers with a DUI but apply a surcharge to reflect the added risk.
How long does a DUI stay on your driving record?
How long a DUI stays on your driving record depends on your state. In many states, a DUI remains on your driving record for 7 to 10 years, and some states keep it even longer. These timeframes refer to your driving record and may differ from how long a DUI stays on your criminal record.
Will my car insurance rates ever go down after a DUI?
Yes, your car insurance rates can go down after a DUI, but it takes time. A DUI affects your rate the most in the first few years because insurers view recent violations as higher risk. You can help lower the risk by:
- Avoiding additional tickets or accidents
- Keeping continuous car insurance coverage
- Maintaining a clean driving record
Once the DUI no longer appears on your motor vehicle report, you may see a more noticeable drop in your rate. The timing and size of any decrease depend on your state, coverage, and overall driving history, but safe driving can help lower your costs.
How to get car insurance if you've had a DUI
You can still get car insurance after a DUI, but you may need to take a few additional steps:
- Check with your current insurer: Ask how a DUI affects your rate and whether your policy will renew.
- Shop around for coverage: Not all insurers handle DUI convictions the same way. Some insurers, including Progressive, offer coverage for drivers with DUIs.
- Understand SR-22 or FR-44 requirements: Some states require an SR-22 or FR-44 after a DUI to prove you meet insurance requirements. You must buy a policy first, and then your insurer files the form with the state. If you choose Progressive, Progressive will file the form for you.
Non-Progressive customers
Get a car insurance quote online or call 1-866-749-7436 and, if you purchase a policy and need an SR-22, we'll file it with your state.
Current Progressive customers
If you recently got a DUI violation and require an SR-22, log in to your policy or call us at 1-866-749-7436.
Does insurance cover a DUI involved accident?
Yes, auto insurance may still cover a DUI-involved accident, but which damages are covered depends on the types of coverage you carry.
Liability coverage
Liability coverage helps pay for injuries to other people and damage to their property if you cause an accident, even if you were under the influence. Liability does not pay for damage to your own vehicle.
Collision coverage
Collision coverage helps to pay to repair or replace your car if you damage it in a crash, regardless of fault, including accidents involving a DUI. If you lease or finance a vehicle, your lender typically requires collision coverage.
Optional coverages
Other coverages may apply depending on your policy, such as comprehensive coverage for non-collision damage. Learn more about auto insurance coverages.
How do multiple DUIs affect your car insurance?
Multiple DUIs usually lead to higher car insurance rates and fewer coverage options. Insurers consider serious driving violations when evaluating risk, according to the Insurance Information Institute, and repeated violations signal higher risk than a single offense. This can result in larger rate increases or nonrenewal.
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