How Does a DUI Affect Your Car Insurance Rates?
In a Nutshell: A DUI causes the most severe insurance rate increase of any violation — premiums typically double or triple overnight. The average driver with a DUI pays $3,600–$5,400/year compared to $1,800 before. A DUI stays on your driving record 5–10 years (depending on state) and usually requires an SR-22 filing. The total cost of a DUI including fines, legal fees, and insurance increases can exceed $15,000.
Premium Increase After a DUI
| State | Premium Before DUI | Premium After DUI (Year 1) | Increase |
|---|---|---|---|
| California | $2,180 | $4,360 | +100% |
| Texas | $2,350 | $4,935 | +110% |
| Florida | $3,320 | $6,640 | +100% |
| New York | $3,050 | $6,405 | +110% |
| Ohio | $1,410 | $3,384 | +140% |
| Illinois | $1,720 | $3,956 | +130% |
| National avg | $2,050 | $4,305 | +110% |
On average, a DUI doubles your car insurance premium. In some states with stricter regulations, the increase is even higher.
DUI Duration on Record
| State | DUI on Driving Record | Insurer Can Surcharge | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| California | 10 years | 10 years | 3-year SR-22 required |
| Texas | 3 years | 3–5 years | 2-year SR-22; 3-year surcharge |
| Florida | 5 years | 5 years | 3-year FR-44 required |
| New York | 10 years | 10 years | 5-year surcharge, 3-year SR-22 |
| Ohio | 6 years | 3–5 years | 3–5 year SR-22 |
| Illinois | 5 years | 5 years | 3-year SR-22 |
| Michigan | 7 years | 7 years | 3–5 year SR-22 |
| Colorado | 7 years | 5 years | 3-year SR-22 |
Costs Beyond Insurance
| Cost Category | Estimated Amount |
|---|---|
| DUI fine | $500–$2,000 |
| Legal fees (attorney) | $2,500–$10,000 |
| Court costs | $300–$1,000 |
| DUI education program | $200–$1,500 |
| License reinstatement fee | $100–$500 |
| Ignition interlock device | $700–$2,500/year |
| Increased insurance (3 years) | $6,000–$10,000 |
| Estimated total cost | $10,000–$25,000 |
The lifetime cost of a DUI averages $10,000–$25,000 when factoring in all expenses and insurance increases over the surcharge period.
How to Get Insurance After a DUI
| Step | What to Do | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Complete DUI education program | Required for license reinstatement |
| 2 | Install ignition interlock (if required) | Shows compliance |
| 3 | Shop non-standard insurers | Progressive, The General, Dairyland |
| 4 | Get an SR-22/FR-44 filing | Required by most states |
| 5 | Pay a larger down payment | Non-standard insurers require 20–40% upfront |
| 6 | Maintain continuous coverage | Any lapse extends the DUI consequences |
| 7 | Re-shop after 2–3 years | Rates improve as the DUI ages |
Insurers That Accept DUI Drivers
| Insurer | Accepts DUI? | Typical Post-DUI Premium |
|---|---|---|
| Progressive | Yes | $3,500–$5,500 |
| The General | Yes | $4,000–$6,000 |
| Dairyland | Yes | $3,500–$5,000 |
| Bristol West | Yes | $4,000–$5,500 |
| SafeAuto | Yes | $3,000–$5,000 |
| Geico | Sometimes (single DUI, clean otherwise) | $3,000–$4,500 |
| State Farm | Sometimes (varies by agent) | $3,500–$5,000 |
How Long Until Rates Return to Normal?
| Time Since DUI | Expected Premium Level |
|---|---|
| Year 1 | 2× pre-DUI premium + SR-22 costs |
| Year 2 | 1.5–1.8× pre-DUI premium |
| Year 3–5 | 1.2–1.5× pre-DUI (if no other violations) |
| After surcharge period ends | 1.0–1.1× standard premium |
| After 7–10 years (full removal) | Standard rates |
Key Takeaways
- A DUI doubles (or more) your car insurance premium
- Average post-DUI premium: $3,600–$5,400/year (national)
- DUI stays on record for 3–10 years depending on state
- SR-22/FR-44 filing required for 3 years in most states
- Total DUI cost: $10,000–$25,000 including insurance, fines, legal fees
- Non-standard insurers (Progressive, The General, Dairyland) are your best options
- Rates improve after 2–3 years clean; full recovery after the surcharge period
Last updated: July 2026
Disclaimer: This article provides general information about the impact of DUIs on car insurance. State laws, surcharge periods, and insurer policies vary significantly. Always consult with a licensed insurance agent for advice specific to your situation.