Best DUI Insurance Companies 2026
After a DUI conviction, finding affordable auto insurance requires knowing which companies actually specialize in high-risk drivers — and which will offer the best rates given your specific situation. Not all insurers treat DUI convictions equally, and the difference between a competitive and an average quote can be $800 to $1,500 per year.
Below, we've ranked the best DUI insurance companies based on average premium increases after a first DUI conviction, SR-22 availability, and financial strength ratings from AM Best.
Top DUI Insurance Companies Compared
| Company | Avg DUI Increase | SR-22 Available | AM Best Rating | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Progressive | +72% | ✅ All states | A+ | Overall best value |
| State Farm | +67% | ✅ Most states | A++ | Long-term customers |
| GEICO | +83% | ✅ Most states | A++ | Moderate surcharge states |
| The General | +105% | ✅ All states | A- | Rejected by standard carriers |
| Dairyland | +98% | ✅ All states | A+ | Midwest & Southeast |
| Bristol West | +110% | ✅ All states | A | Multiple violations |
| Nationwide | +79% | ✅ Most states | A+ | Bundling discounts |
Average increases based on NAIC rate filings and industry data for a 35-year-old driver with a first DUI conviction. Individual rates vary significantly by state, coverage level, and personal factors.
1. Progressive — Best Overall for DUI Drivers
Progressive is the most consistently recommended insurer for drivers with a DUI, and for good reason. They specialize in non-standard risk and offer SR-22 filing in every state that requires it. Their Name Your Price tool lets you find coverage that fits your budget, and their average DUI surcharge (around 72%) is well below the industry norm.
Pros: Lowest average DUI surcharge among major carriers; SR-22 filing available in all states; easy online quote process; snapshot telematics program can reduce rates over time.
Cons: Rates can be higher in certain states; customer service ratings are mixed.
2. State Farm — Best for Existing Customers
State Farm evaluates DUI cases individually and is known for being more lenient with long-term customers who have clean records prior to the DUI. Their average surcharge of 67% is the lowest among major carriers, though availability of SR-22 filing varies by state. If you've been with State Farm for years, call them before shopping elsewhere.
Pros: Lowest average surcharge; strong financial stability (AM Best A++); excellent local agent network.
Cons: Does not file SR-22 in all states; may non-renew for repeat offenders.
3. GEICO — Competitive in Most Markets
GEICO offers competitive DUI rates in most states and provides a straightforward online process for obtaining coverage. Their average surcharge of 83% is slightly above Progressive but still competitive compared to smaller carriers. Available in most states for SR-22.
Pros: Strong online experience; competitive rates in many markets; 24/7 customer service.
Cons: Higher surcharge than Progressive and State Farm; does not file SR-22 in all states.
4. The General — Best for Hard-to-Insure Drivers
The General specializes in non-standard, high-risk auto insurance and accepts drivers who've been declined or dropped by standard carriers. If you have multiple violations or have been turned away elsewhere, The General is worth getting a quote from. Rates are higher than standard carriers but the acceptance threshold is lower.
Best for: Drivers with multiple violations, very recent DUIs, or those who've been non-renewed by standard carriers.
5. Dairyland — Strong Regional Option
A division of Sentry Insurance, Dairyland focuses exclusively on non-standard auto insurance. They are particularly strong in the Midwest and Southeast, and are known for efficient SR-22 filing with same-day processing in most states.
Tips for Getting the Cheapest DUI Insurance Quote
- Compare at least 5 quotes — DUI surcharges vary dramatically between insurers
- Ask about discounts — even high-risk drivers can qualify for multi-policy, paperless, or defensive driving discounts
- Consider a telematics program — Progressive's Snapshot and State Farm's Drive Safe & Save reward safe driving behavior regardless of your history
- Evaluate your coverage level — dropping comprehensive/collision on an older vehicle reduces your premium significantly
- Set up auto-pay — prevents the costly mistake of a policy lapse during your SR-22 period
Want to calculate exactly how much your DUI will cost before you shop? Use our free DUI insurance calculator →
Ready to lower your SR-22 cost?
Compare quotes from top SR-22 insurers to find the best rate for your state and situation.
Calculate My Cost First Full DUI Insurance Guide