In this guide
After a DUI, your car insurance will likely get more expensive, your insurer may not renew your policy, and your state may require proof of financial responsibility, often through an SR-22 or, in a few states, an FR-44. The details depend on your state's laws and the outcome of your case. This guide explains what typically happens and how to get covered again without a gap. It isn't legal advice, so talk to an attorney about your case.
Key takeaways
- A DUI conviction can raise premiums for years, and some insurers may non-renew or decline you.
- An SR-22 is a certificate your insurer files with the state, not a type of insurance.
- Florida and Virginia use a separate FR-44 form with higher liability limits.
- Don't let your coverage lapse. A lapse can make things worse and may extend your filing period.
- Rates, filing periods and license rules vary by state, so check your state motor vehicle agency.
What usually happens to your policy
A DUI or DWI is treated as a serious violation by insurers and by state licensing agencies. Typical consequences include:
- Higher premiums. Insurers consider impaired driving a major risk factor. Published estimates of the increase vary widely, so treat any single number with caution.
- Non-renewal or cancellation. Some insurers decline to renew after a conviction. Rules on when and how an insurer may do this vary by state, and you should receive written notice.
- License suspension. Your state may suspend or restrict your license, often with an administrative process separate from the court case.
- A required filing. Many states require proof of insurance, filed by your insurer, before they will reinstate your license.
- Possible ignition interlock requirements. Many states require or allow an ignition interlock device, which tests your breath before the car starts.
Impaired driving is also a serious safety issue. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) reports that in 2024, 34% of fatally injured passenger vehicle drivers ages 16 to 19 had positive blood alcohol concentrations, and that at a BAC of 0.08% to 0.099%, drivers ages 16 to 20 are 32 times more likely to die in single-vehicle crashes than sober teen drivers. Insurers price this risk heavily.
SR-22 and FR-44 filings
These are the terms you will hear most often.
| Item | SR-22 | FR-44 |
|---|---|---|
| What it is | A certificate of financial responsibility filed by your insurer with the state | A similar certificate with higher liability limits |
| Where it's used | Required in most states for certain violations, including DUI | Used in a small number of states, including Florida and Virginia |
| Is it a policy? | No, it's a filing attached to a policy | No, also a filing |
| Typical duration | Often about three years, but it varies by state and offense | Often about three years, but it varies |
| Who files it | Your insurance company | Your insurance company |
If your insurer cancels or you stop paying, it generally must notify the state, which can lead to a new suspension. For a deeper explanation, read what SR-22 insurance is and who needs it.
For FR-44, sources agree that Florida's required limits are $100,000 per person, $300,000 per accident for bodily injury and $50,000 for property damage. Sources disagree on Virginia's limits, so check the Virginia DMV for the current numbers. Our state pages for Florida and Virginia cover local basics.
Good to know: Not every insurer files SR-22 or FR-44 forms. If yours won't, you'll need to find one that does. Ask whether it files electronically and how quickly.
Steps to get covered after a DUI
- Find out what your state requires. Ask your state motor vehicle agency about suspension length, reinstatement fees, any SR-22 or FR-44 requirement and ignition interlock rules.
- Talk to your current insurer. Ask whether it will keep you, file the form and what the new price would be.
- Get quotes from several insurers. Companies treat DUIs very differently. Some specialize in higher-risk drivers. Use the same coverage and limits for each quote.
- Keep your coverage continuous. If your license is suspended and you don't own a car, ask about non-owner car insurance, which can satisfy some SR-22 requirements. The insurer and your state must accept it.
- Pay on time. A missed payment can cancel the policy and trigger a notice to the state. See lapses and grace periods.
- Diary the end date. Ask your state when the filing period ends. Don't cancel early. When it ends, re-shop.
If standard insurers decline you, there may still be options. See high-risk car insurance for non-standard insurers and state assigned-risk plans.
What affects your price afterward
Beyond the DUI itself, insurers consider:
- Your state and its rules. Some states limit how long insurers can use a conviction. Others have longer lookback periods.
- How long ago it happened. Pricing often improves as the conviction ages, though sources say it can affect rates for several years and sometimes more than a decade, depending on the insurer.
- Your age and the rest of your record. Other tickets and at-fault accidents add to the effect. See how tickets affect car insurance.
- Your coverage. Required limits for FR-44 are higher than normal minimums, which raises the premium.
- Lapses in coverage. Insurers dislike gaps. Some sources report that drivers with both a DUI and a lapse pay more.
- Credit and other factors. See how credit affects car insurance.
For how long violations typically linger, see how long accidents affect your insurance. Insurers set their own lookback periods, so ask each one.
How to rebuild
- Complete every court and DMV requirement. Alcohol education programs, fines and interlock terms can all affect reinstatement.
- Drive carefully and avoid new violations. Another ticket can restart the clock on how insurers see you.
- Consider a higher deductible if you can afford it, and review whether you still need collision coverage on an older car.
- Review your discounts. See the discounts checklist.
- Shop again at every renewal and when your filing ends. The market for drivers with a DUI is competitive in some states, and prices can change as your conviction ages.
Look through practical ways to lower your premium as well. No one can promise a particular price after a DUI, so be wary of anyone who does.
Moving after a DUI
If you move to another state while an SR-22 or suspension is in effect, the original state's requirements can follow you. Talk to both states' motor vehicle agencies before you register a car or change insurers. See car insurance when you move to another state and browse our state pages.
Frequently asked questions
Will my insurer drop me after a DUI?
It may. Many insurers non-renew or surcharge drivers after a conviction, though rules and timing vary by state and company. You should receive written notice if your policy is canceled or not renewed.
How long will a DUI affect my rates?
It varies by insurer and state. Industry sources describe effects lasting about three to ten years, sometimes longer, but your own insurer's lookback period is what counts.
Do I need an SR-22 if I don't own a car?
If your state requires one, you may still need to file. A non-owner policy may be an option, depending on the state and insurer. Check with your motor vehicle agency.
Is an SR-22 expensive?
The filing itself usually carries a modest fee at many insurers, but the bigger cost is the higher premium that comes with a DUI. Amounts vary widely.
Should I talk to a lawyer?
For questions about charges, penalties or license rights, yes. CoverMoose provides general education only. A licensed agent can help with coverage and your state insurance department can answer insurance-regulation questions.
Sources
- IIHS – Teenagers
- NerdWallet – What Is an SR22? Insurance After a Mistake
- Experian – How to Get Car Insurance After a DUI
- Progressive – What is an FR-44 form?
- NAIC – What Does Auto Insurance Cover?
General information only. This guide explains general concepts and is not insurance, legal or financial advice. Rules and prices vary by state and insurer. Check your policy documents and speak to a licensed insurance professional or your state insurance department about your situation.