Car Insurance for Drivers With a DUI in California

Have a DUI on your driving record and need car insurance in California? You're not alone, and you still have options.

Finding affordable car insurance after a DUI can feel overwhelming. Some insurance companies may charge higher premiums, while others may decline to offer coverage. If you're also dealing with a suspended license or an SR-22 requirement, finding the right insurance can seem even more complicated.

The good news? A DUI doesn't automatically mean you can't get car insurance.

At eWay Insurance Services, we understand that everyone deserves an opportunity to explore their insurance options. As an independent California insurance agency, we work with multiple insurance carriers to help drivers find coverage that fits their needs and budget.

Whether you need car insurance after a DUI, help finding a policy with an SR-22 filing, or coverage for a less-than-perfect driving record, our team is here to help.

Ready to explore your options? Visit www.ewayinsurance.com to request a free auto insurance quote, contact our team, or stop by one of our offices.

Can You Get Car Insurance With a DUI in California?

Yes! You can still qualify for car insurance in California even if you have a DUI conviction on your driving record.

However, your insurance options may be more limited, and your premiums may be higher than those of a driver with a clean driving history.

Insurance companies consider several factors when determining your eligibility and premium, including:

• How recently the DUI occurred.
• Whether you have previous DUI convictions.
• Your overall driving history, including accidents and traffic violations.
• Your age and driving experience.
• The vehicle you want to insure.
• The coverage you select.
• The insurance company's underwriting requirements.

Not every insurance carrier evaluates drivers with a DUI in exactly the same way.

That's why working with an independent insurance agency like eWay Insurance can be helpful. Instead of limiting yourself to one insurance company, you can explore options from multiple carriers.

Don't assume your insurance will be unaffordable. Let eWay Insurance help you compare available options.

How Much Is Car Insurance After a DUI in California?

Car insurance typically becomes more expensive after a DUI conviction because insurance companies consider DUI violations a significant risk factor.

However, there is no single price that applies to every driver with a DUI.

For example, someone with one DUI several years ago may receive a different quote than someone with a recent DUI and multiple traffic violations.

Your premium also depends on your vehicle, driving experience, coverage limits, and the insurance company.

How Can You Find Cheaper Car Insurance After a DUI?

Although a DUI can increase your insurance costs, there are ways to look for more affordable coverage.

1. Compare quotes from multiple insurance companies.

Different insurers have different eligibility requirements and rating rules. Comparing available carriers may help you find a more competitive option.

2. Choose coverage that fits your needs.

Liability-only insurance may cost less than a policy that also includes comprehensive and collision coverage. However, it does not cover damage to your own vehicle, and financed or leased vehicles may require additional coverage.

3. Ask about available discounts.

Depending on the insurance carrier and your eligibility, you may qualify for certain discounts.

4. Avoid additional tickets and accidents.

Maintaining a better driving record over time can help improve your future insurance options.

5. Work with an independent insurance agency.

At eWay Insurance, our team can help you compare available options without having to contact multiple insurance companies individually.

Looking for affordable DUI car insurance in California? Get started today at ewayinsurance.com.

What Is SR-22 Insurance in California?

If you've received a DUI in California, you may have heard that you need SR-22 insurance.

An SR-22 is not a separate type of insurance policy. It is a certificate filed by an insurance company with the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to demonstrate that you have the required proof of financial responsibility.

An SR-22 may be required after certain DUI-related license suspensions or revocations.

Depending on your situation, obtaining the necessary insurance and SR-22 filing may be part of the process of applying for a restricted license or reinstating your driving privileges.

How Long Do You Need an SR-22 After a DUI?

Many California DUI-related cases involve a requirement to maintain proof of financial responsibility for three years, although the exact period and starting date depend on the DMV action and individual circumstances.

It's important to follow the requirements listed in your DMV notices and avoid any lapse in coverage during the required period.

If your insurance policy is canceled or lapses, the insurance company may notify the DMV, potentially affecting your driving privileges.

Need car insurance with an SR-22 filing? Contact eWay Insurance to discuss available carrier options and filing assistance.

Can You Get Car Insurance With a Suspended License After a DUI?

In certain situations, drivers with suspended licenses may still be eligible to purchase auto insurance.

However, obtaining insurance does not automatically restore your driving privileges.

Depending on your circumstances, the California DMV may require you to complete additional steps, such as:

• Completing or enrolling in an approved DUI program.
• Obtaining an SR-22 filing.
• Paying applicable DMV fees.
• Meeting ignition interlock device requirements, when applicable.
• Satisfying other court or DMV requirements.

At eWay Insurance, we can help you explore insurance options based on your license status and the requirements of participating insurance carriers.

Important: You must have valid driving privileges before legally operating a vehicle. An insurance policy alone does not authorize you to drive with a suspended license.

What Are California's Minimum Car Insurance Requirements in 2026?

California requires drivers to maintain financial responsibility. For standard automobile liability insurance policies, the minimum coverage limits effective since January 1, 2025, are:

CoverageMinimum Requirement

Bodily injury liability per person

$30,000

Bodily injury liability per accident

$60,000

Property damage liability per accident

$15,000

These limits are commonly referred to as 30/60/15.

Drivers with a DUI must still satisfy California's applicable financial responsibility requirements.

Although minimum liability coverage may be a more affordable starting point, higher coverage limits can provide additional financial protection if you're responsible for an accident.

Our agents can help explain the differences between liability-only and broader auto insurance coverage.

Can You Get Full Coverage Car Insurance After a DUI?

Yes, some drivers with DUI convictions may qualify for policies that include comprehensive and collision coverage.

While the term "full coverage" is commonly used, it is not a specific insurance policy type and does not mean every possible loss is covered.

Depending on the insurer and your eligibility, you may be able to obtain:

• Bodily injury and property damage liability.
• Comprehensive coverage.
• Collision coverage.
• Uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage.
• Other available optional coverages.

Availability and pricing depend on the insurance carrier, vehicle, driving record, and other underwriting factors.

If you finance or lease your vehicle, your lender may require comprehensive and collision coverage.

Why Choose eWay Insurance for DUI Car Insurance in California?

At eWay Insurance Services, we believe your driving history shouldn't prevent you from exploring your insurance options.

We understand that finding insurance after a DUI can be frustrating, especially when you're dealing with higher premiums or difficulty obtaining coverage.

As an independent insurance agency, we help California drivers explore coverage options for a variety of driving situations.

What Makes eWay Insurance Different?

Multiple insurance carriers: We can compare options from participating insurance companies instead of offering coverage from only one carrier.

Experience with challenging driving records: Our team helps drivers with DUI convictions, accidents, tickets, and other driving record concerns explore available coverage.

SR-22 assistance: We can help you find out whether an eligible insurance carrier can provide the filing you need.

Personalized service: Have questions about your coverage? Our team can explain your options in English or Spanish.

Convenient ways to get insured: Request a quote online, speak with an agent, or visit an eWay Insurance office.

Serving drivers throughout California: Whether you're in Los Angeles, Orange County, Riverside, San Bernardino, San Diego, or another California community, our team can help you explore your auto insurance options.

Frequently Asked Questions About DUI Car Insurance in California

Can I get cheap car insurance with a DUI?

You may be able to find more affordable options by comparing insurance companies. Although a DUI can increase premiums, rates vary based on your driving history, vehicle, coverage, and insurer.

Will every insurance company reject me because of a DUI?

No. Some insurance companies offer coverage to drivers with DUI convictions, although eligibility varies. An independent agency can help you explore available carriers.

Do I automatically need an SR-22 after a DUI?

Not every situation is identical. SR-22 requirements depend on the DMV action and your specific circumstances. Review your DMV notices to determine what is required.

Can I buy car insurance online if I have a DUI?

You can begin your insurance quote request online through eWay Insurance. Whether a policy can be purchased and issued entirely online depends on the carrier, your driving history, and any additional documentation required.

Can I get insurance if my DUI happened several years ago?

Yes, coverage may be available. How a previous DUI affects your eligibility and premium depends on the insurer's rules and the details of your driving history.

Does an SR-22 automatically reinstate my driver's license?

No. An SR-22 is proof of financial responsibility, not a driver's license reinstatement. You must satisfy all applicable DMV requirements before your driving privileges can be restored.

Get a Free DUI Car Insurance Quote in California Today!

A DUI doesn't have to be the end of your search for car insurance.

At eWay Insurance Services, we're here to help you explore available coverage, compare quotes, and find an insurance option that works for your situation.

Whether you need liability insurance, broader auto coverage, or assistance finding an SR-22 filing, our team is ready to help.

Get started today:

• Get a quote online: Visit www.ewayinsurance.com.
• Call an eWay Insurance agent: Speak directly with our team about your insurance needs.
• Visit one of our offices: Stop by for personalized assistance.

eWay Insurance Services — Helping California Drivers Find Their Way to Better Insurance Options.

Insurance availability, premiums, discounts, and SR-22 filing services are subject to carrier eligibility and underwriting requirements. eWay Insurance Services is an independent insurance agency and is not affiliated with the California DMV.