How long does a DUI stay on your record?

How long does a DUI stay on your record for insurance purposes? Also, how long does a DUI stay on your criminal record? Are they related?

Depending on your state, a DUI may stay on your record perpetually. Of course, any insurance company is free to view those records as part of its risk assessment.

Generally, your car insurance rates will increase after a DUI. You may only be able to get high-risk car insurance in some cases, but some companies will give you more leniency than others.

Learn more about how long a DUI stays on your record for car insurance purposes, plus what you can do to lower your car insurance rates after getting a DUI.

And if you want to see rates from some car insurance companies in your area right now, enter your ZIP code into our free quote tool above.

How long does a DUI stay on your driving record overall?

Discover how long a DUI can remain on your driving record after a conviction based on your state:

How Long a DUI Stays on Your Record in Each State

*For each DUI infraction a person commits in Alaska, they will have a longer SR-22 period. That person will have a permanent SR-22 requirement after their fourth infraction.

A DUI conviction will likely stay on your criminal record in perpetuity unless you can get it removed. However, the expungement will not affect your DMV record.

Next, we will examine how a DUI offense affects your car insurance rates.

How long does a DUI stay on your record for car insurance purposes?

The previous section also included data for SR-22 period lengths because a DUI conviction will lead to a suspended license. And if you need to retrieve your driver’s license after committing a DUI infraction, you will need to file an SR-22 for car insurance. While the SR-22 doesn’t cost much on its own, the DUI that led to the SR-22 will mean higher insurance rates.

Depending on your chosen car insurance company, a DUI conviction can affect your car insurance rates and your eligibility for some discounts. Here are some car insurance companies that may grant you leniency after a certain period:

How Long a DUI Stays on Your Record for Car Insurance Companies

This list partially relies on information about these companies’ good driving discounts and accident forgiveness programs. In most cases, these companies will reward drivers who remain accident-free for three to five straight years.

That said, car insurance companies will keep a record of any driver’s accidents and driving violations.

Insurance companies operate on risk, and they are constantly evaluating drivers listed on their policies. If you have too many violations, insurance companies will raise your rates, bar you from receiving certain discounts, or non-renew your policy.

How much does car insurance cost after you commit a DUI offense?

Here is a snapshot of the possible car insurance rate increases you may see after a DUI infraction:

How Long Does a DUI Stay on Your Record? Car Insurance Rate Increases With Major Companies

American Family Insurance might have the lowest increases, but The Hartford’s rates increased on this chart by an astounding 237%. However, based on the average, you should expect your rates to increase by approximately 80%.

Tips For Lowering Your Car Insurance Rates After A DUI Infraction

If rates from your current insurance company are too high, consider finding another car insurance company. However, if your insurance company decides to keep you as a policyholder, you can avoid a lapse in coverage and have a second chance.

Here is what you can do to lower your rates in any case:

• Maintain a good driving record after the DUI offense. Given what we discussed about record resets, your insurance company may lower your rates after a few years of driving without accidents and violations.
• Take a defensive driving course. The Insurance Information Institute mentions that you could receive this discount if another person listed on your policy takes the course. However, in this case, you can benefit in two ways by enrolling in such a course.
• Drive a different car. You may get a discount by driving a car with safety features and passive restraint systems. Also, look at car insurance rates for your vehicle because the type of vehicle you drive can impact your rates.

You may also lower your monthly rates by raising your deductible, driving less, or enrolling in a telematics program. The latter may also allow your insurance company to see that your driving is gradually improving.

We hope that we have helped you understand more about how long a DUI offense can remain on your record for car insurance. Now, if you would like to see car insurance rates from some companies in your area, enter your ZIP code into our free quote tool below.

Case Studies: Impact of DUI on Car Insurance Rates

Case Study 1: John’s DUI and Skyrocketing Premiums

John, a resident of Illinois, was recently convicted of a DUI. His car insurance premiums skyrocketed by 80% following the conviction. John now faces the challenge of finding affordable coverage as a high-risk driver.

Case Study 2: Sarah’s DUI and Limited Insurance Options

Sarah, a resident of Florida, received a DUI citation. Her insurance company decided not to renew her policy, leaving her with limited options. Sarah struggled to find coverage and eventually secured a policy with a different provider at a significantly higher cost.

Case Study 3: Mark’s DUI and Insurance Company Loyalty

Mark, a resident of Texas, faced a DUI conviction. Despite his offense, his insurance company showed loyalty by offering him a second chance. They provided him with a policy renewal at slightly higher rates but still considerably lower than what other insurers were quoting him.

Case Study 4: Emily’s DUI and Policy Non-Renewal

Emily, a resident of California, was charged with a DUI offense. Her insurance company decided not to renew her policy due to the increased risk associated with the conviction. Emily had to search for a new insurance provider that would offer coverage despite her DUI, resulting in higher premiums and limited options.