How a DUI Impacts Your Insurance and How Long It Stays on Your Record

A DUI can significantly raise your auto insurance rates and affect your record for years. Learn what to expect, how long it stays, and how to regain coverage at an affordable rate.

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​🚫 A DUI Isn’t Just a Legal Problem—It’s a Long-Term Insurance Issue
Getting charged with a DUI (Driving Under the Influence) is one of the most serious driving violations you can have on your record—and insurers treat it that way. In addition to court fines, license suspensions, and possible jail time, a DUI will likely cause your auto insurance rates to skyrocket and limit which carriers will even insure you.
Here’s what you need to know about how a DUI impacts your car insurance and how long it stays on your driving and insurance records.

📈 How a DUI Affects Your Insurance Rates
Insurance companies view drivers with a DUI as high-risk. That means:

• Higher premiums
• Limited carrier options
• Required filings (like an SR-22 in many states)

Premium increases after a DUI can range from 40% to over 100%, depending on your age, location, and carrier. In many cases, you’ll be removed from preferred rating tiers and may only qualify for non-standard or high-risk auto policies.

Examples of Cost Impact:

• A driver in Kansas with a clean record may pay $1,200/year.
• After a DUI, that could jump to $2,000–$3,500/year—or more.

📄 What Is an SR-22 and When Do You Need It?
An SR-22 is a certificate of financial responsibility. It’s not insurance, but a form your insurance company files with the state to prove you’re carrying the required coverage after a DUI or major violation.
You may be required to carry an SR-22 if:

• You’re convicted of a DUI or DWI
• You were driving uninsured
• You caused an accident while driving under the influence

SR-22 filing requirements vary by state:

• Kansas: Usually required for 1–3 years
• Missouri: Often required for 2–3 years
• Texas: Typically 2 years following license reinstatement

🧾 How Long Does a DUI Stay on Your Record?
This varies by state, but it affects your driving and insurance records differently:
1. Driving Record (DMV/MVR)

• Texas: 3–10 years (can be permanent for repeat offenders)
• Kansas: Typically 3–5 years
• Missouri: Up to 10 years or longer for repeat offenses

2. Insurance History

• Most insurers factor a DUI into their rating for 3 to 5 years
• Some may go back 7–10 years for high-risk or non-standard policies

Even if your state removes the DUI from your record, your insurer may still consider it when pricing your policy, especially if you file other claims or violations.

🚘 Which Carriers Insure Drivers After a DUI?
Not all companies will provide a quote after a DUI. Many major carriers may deny renewal or drop you at the end of the policy term. However, there are still good options available:
Carriers That May Accept DUI Drivers:

• Progressive: Well-known for offering SR-22 policies and flexible payment options
• Bristol West (a Foremost company): Specializes in high-risk drivers
• The General or Dairyland: Often used in non-standard markets, but with higher premiums
• Safeco: May offer coverage if the violation is older and other factors are stable

Working with an independent agency like Corin Insurance gives you access to multiple options—even after a DUI.

🧠 Tips to Lower Your Rates After a DUI

1. Maintain a clean record: Avoid further tickets or claims for the next 3–5 years.
2. Take a defensive driving course: Some states and carriers offer rate reductions for course completion.
3. Drive less or use telematics: Programs like Progressive Snapshot® or Safeco RightTrack® reward safe driving behavior.
4. Improve your credit score: In most states, credit is a factor in auto insurance pricing.
5. Ask about discounts: Some discounts may still apply—multi-policy, paid-in-full, or paperless billing.

⏳ How Long Until You Can Get “Normal” Insurance Again?
In most cases, if you remain violation- and claim-free for 3 to 5 years, you’ll be eligible for preferred or standard coverage again with:

• Lower rates
• More carrier options
• Better policy flexibility

✅ Final Thoughts
A DUI can have a major impact on your driving future—but it doesn’t have to define it. With the right support and strategy, you can find coverage that fits your budget, meet your state’s requirements, and eventually rebuild your insurance history.
Need help navigating your options after a DUI? Contact Corin Insurance for expert help comparing rates and understanding SR-22 requirements in Texas, Kansas, and Missouri.

Disclaimer:
This blog is for informational purposes only. State laws and insurance regulations vary. Always consult with a licensed insurance agent to determine coverage eligibility and compliance with DUI or SR-22 requirements in your area.