Healthcare Policy & Insurance Editor · Last reviewed January 2025
A DUI conviction typically triggers some of the largest auto insurance rate increases possible. Understanding how long a DUI affects your insurance, how much rates are likely to increase, and what you can do to find the best available coverage is important for managing the financial consequences of a DUI conviction.
How Much Does a DUI Increase Insurance Rates?
Rate increases following a DUI vary significantly by insurer, state, driver age, and prior driving record — but a 50–100% rate increase is common for a first offense. Some insurers will non-renew a policy following a DUI, requiring the driver to find a new insurer. Rate comparison across multiple insurers is essential — in some markets, the cheapest insurer for a post-DUI driver is not the same as the cheapest insurer for a clean record driver.
How Long Does a DUI Affect Your Insurance?
State regulations determine how long insurers can use a DUI conviction when calculating rates. In most states, a DUI can be rated (used to calculate premiums) for 3–7 years. After the rating period ends, rates should decrease substantially — assuming no additional violations. The SR22 requirement typically lasts 3 years, but insurance rate impacts may persist longer depending on your state.
Practical Steps for Finding Coverage After a DUI
- Shop broadly — Get quotes from at least 5–6 insurers, including both major carriers (State Farm, Progressive, Geico, Allstate, Farmers) and nonstandard/high-risk specialists. Online comparison tools can help, but some high-risk specialists may not appear on comparison sites.
- Consider coverage levels carefully — Dropping to state minimum liability coverage reduces premiums but leaves you financially exposed. Comprehensive and collision coverage is optional, and dropping it on an older vehicle reduces premiums.
- Complete a defensive driving course — Many states and insurers offer premium discounts for defensive driving course completion, and some courts may require it as part of DUI sentencing anyway.
- Maintain continuous coverage — Any lapse in coverage resets the SR22 requirement clock and signals higher risk to insurers. Automatic payments help prevent inadvertent lapses.
- Revisit rates annually — As time passes without additional violations, re-shopping for rates annually may yield significant savings.
Related: SR22 Insurance · DUI Consequences · DUI & Addiction