How much does car insurance go up after a DUI, and for how long?
A first DUI typically raises US car insurance premiums by roughly 35% to 155%, depending on the insurer. That's about $1,200 to $2,700+ a year extra in published rate studies, which is why comparing insurers matters more after a DUI than at any other time. The surcharge usually lasts 3–5 years (longer in some states), and many states also require an SR-22 insurance filing (an FR-44 in Florida and Virginia). Some insurers drop DUI drivers at renewal, which pushes them into the non-standard auto insurance market. In the UK, the equivalent DR10 conviction roughly doubles premiums at first. See our hub on car insurance for high-risk and convicted drivers.
- Increases vary widely by insurer, from about +35% to +155%. The cheapest post-DUI insurer can save you thousands a year.
- The surcharge usually lasts 3–5 years. Some states keep a DUI on your driving record much longer.
- Expect an SR-22 or FR-44 filing, typically for about 3 years. A lapse restarts problems.
- Your current insurer may non-renew you. See can insurance drop you after a claim for how non-renewals work.
- UK: a DR10 brings roughly a +103% median uplift at first (£773 vs £381 in GoCompare's 2025 analysis), falling each year.
Why a DUI Hits Premiums So Hard
Typical Cost After a DUI (Published Rate Studies)
• Typical increases: around +80% to +95% at many large carriers.
• Largest increases: +150% or more.
• Duration: usually 3–5 years of surcharges.
Because the spread between insurers is so wide, get quotes from at least five carriers, including non-standard specialists. Our tips in best rate on car insurance and the carrier overview in car insurance companies compared are a good starting point.
A gap in cover on top of a DUI makes you even harder to insure and can trigger an SR-22 suspension. Line up the new policy before you cancel the old one. See can you cancel insurance anytime and get a refund.
How to Lower Premiums After a DUI
2. Consider a higher deductible, modelled in the Car Insurance Deductible Calculator.
3. Drop collision on a low-value car if you can absorb the loss (see comprehensive vs collision).
4. No car? Use a non-owner SR-22 (see named non-owner car insurance).
5. Re-shop each year as the DUI ages.
If every carrier declines you, your state's assigned risk auto insurance plan must provide cover.
UK Drink Driving (DR10) Comparison
Illustrative Case: Shopping After a First DUI
Scenario: Marcus, 34, in Texas, paid $1,850 a year for full coverage before a first DUI conviction. The court required an SR-22. At renewal, his insurer non-renewed him.
Resolution & Judicial Outcome: Quotes ranged from $2,600 (+41%) at a non-standard carrier to $4,500 (+143%) at a large standard carrier. He took the $2,600 policy with SR-22 filing, raised his collision deductible to $1,000, and set up autopay to avoid any lapse during the 2-year Texas SR-22 period.
What You Should Do: Step-by-Step Action Plan
Critical Mistakes to Avoid
- Accepting your current insurer's renewal without comparing.
- Letting the policy lapse during the SR-22 period.
- Driving on a suspended licence, which adds a second serious violation.