How much does car insurance cost after a DUI?

Were you convicted of a DUI or DWI recently? DUIs and DWIs can lead to fines and even jail time. In addition to penalties, your car insurance rates can increase if you have a DUI. 

But how much do your insurance rates go up? Don’t worry — we’ll explain how a DUI affects your car insurance policy. Read this guide to learn how a DUI affects car insurance rates per month and which companies have the most expensive rates for DUI-convicted drivers. 

How much does car insurance cost after a DUI?

After a DUI, the average insurance cost is between $283 and $410 a month. A DUI (also called DWI in some states) raises your car insurance rates by 40% or more at some insurance companies. 

But each auto insurance company is different. Some insurance companies increase your rates by as little as 20%. However, getting cheap car insurance with a DUI on your driving record is challenging. 

How much does DUI insurance cost at the best companies?

Car insurance for DUI-convicted drivers is $410 per month on average, but your auto insurance rates vary at different companies. Let’s look at an example of how a DUI impacts your monthly car insurance rates. 

USAA car insurance is the cheapest, but USAA isn’t available for every driver. Only veterans (active and retired) and their immediate families can get an insurance policy through USAA. 

The most affordable companies for DUI-convicted drivers are State Farm, Progressive, and American Family. Meanwhile, the most expensive insurance companies are Travelers, Allstate, and Liberty Mutual. 

Is DUI car insurance cost different in each state?

Yes, it is. Some states have cheaper auto insurance rates for a DUI. These could be lower than the average rates in the previous sections. 

Here’s a table that shows the average monthly rates of DUI auto insurance for each state in the U.S.

North Carolina, Rhode Island, and Michigan car insurance companies are the most expensive for DUI-convicted drivers. But Maine, Alaska, and Ohio have the most affordable insurance rates for DUI drivers. 

What if you have multiple DUI convictions?

If you have several DUIs on your driving record, you could lose your car insurance coverage. And finding auto insurance could become more challenging. 

[blockquote] Insurance companies can learn about your DUI conviction when you renew or buy a new policy. [/blockquote]

Some insurance companies could deny your request for a car insurance policy. But you can go to your local department of motor vehicles and ask them to help you find an insurance company. However, your car insurance rates could be more expensive than average. 

Do teen drivers pay more after a DUI conviction?

Yes, they do. Young drivers are considered high-risk drivers by car insurance companies. Factoring in a DUI at a young age could dramatically increase car insurance rates. Parents and legal guardians who added teen drivers to their policy will also see rates increase by at least 20%. 

How long does a DUI stay on your driving record?

DUIs and DWIs can stay on your driving record for at least five years. Some states hold DUIs on your driving history for a lifetime. You can even get points against your driver’s license. Let’s see how long a DUI lasts for each state. 

Illinois, Kansas, Maine, Ohio, Texas, and several other states keep DUIs on your driving history for life. 

The good news is that you can have convictions sealed after a specific number of years. Also, some insurance companies may give you cheaper insurance rates after you’ve maintained a clean driving record for at least three years. 

Do you need SR-22 after a DUI conviction?

It depends on the state, but you’ll likely receive a demand letter from your local department of motor vehicles stating that you’re required to get SR-22 certification. Ask your insurance company for an SR-22 request if you still have your insurance policy. SR-22 lasts for three years, but you’ll have to reapply for SR-22 if your state still considers you a high-risk driver.

Can you get a discount with a DUI on your driving record?

Yes, you can. A DUI doesn’t disqualify you from getting car insurance discounts. You’ll miss out on defensive and safe driver discounts, but you can save up to 30% if you have good credit. 

Completing a defensive or drunk driving course could also help you save money on your monthly rates. 

DUI Car Insurance: The Bottom Line

Out of all traffic infractions you could get, DUIs and DWIs are the worst. DUI convictions drive up insurance rates by hundreds of dollars. 

If you’re eligible for multiple discounts, you can lower DUI car insurance rates. And if the top insurance companies in your area are too expensive, shop with insurance companies that are used to dealing with high-risk drivers.