Updated: July 2, 2025
Advertising & Editorial Disclosure
Even if your license is suspended or revoked, you must carry minimum coverage on a registered car in your name or risk fines and a longer suspension period.
High-risk insurance specialists like The General, Bristol West, and Dairyland offer specialized coverage options for suspended license drivers.
Applying discounts, using telematics programs, insuring a driver with a clean record, and shopping for quotes can help you get cheaper rates with a suspended license.
Having your license suspended creates immediate stress about staying legal and protected. Getting insured with a suspended license is possible and required if your car is registered. Most insurers won't rate you as an active driver, but you can keep or get coverage by listing someone else on your policy or filing the right documentation. Taking immediate action when your license is suspended can help you avoid additional penalties and find affordable coverage. Here's what to do:
Report the suspension and explore options to remain on the policy as an excluded driver.
Check whether your state requires these filings. Florida and Virginia require FR-44 for DUI convictions, while other states use SR-22 certificates.
See if you qualify for hardship licenses allowing limited driving for work, school, or medical appointments.
Get quotes from The General, Bristol West, and Dairyland, which specialize in suspended license coverage.
If you live with someone who has a valid license and clean driving record, you can list them as the primary driver on your policy. This helps you maintain coverage without a lapse. Remember that not all insurers allow this setup, so check with your provider.
If your license was suspended due to a serious violation like a DUI, your state may require an SR-22 or FR-44 to reinstate driving privileges. These forms prove you meet minimum coverage requirements. You'll need to find an insurer that can file the form for you and list a rated driver with a valid license on the policy.
Some states allow you to apply for a restricted or hardship license after your license is suspended. This lets you drive under limited circumstances like commuting to work or medical appointments and allows insurers to rate you as a driver on your policy.
If a family member or co-owner is listed on your vehicle's title, they may be able to insure the car under their name. You'd be excluded as a driver, but this can help keep the vehicle covered until your license is reinstated.
An insurance expert can walk you through your state's rules and help you find a company that offers high-risk policies. They may also assist with SR-22 or FR-44 filings if required.
Insurance requirements and procedures vary widely by state. Knowing your state's specific rules can help you avoid additional penalties and find the right coverage.
Understanding which financial responsibility form your state requires can save you time and confusion during the reinstatement process. Only Florida and Virginia require the more stringent FR-44 filing for DUI convictions, which mandates higher liability limits of 100/300/50. All other states that require financial responsibility filings use the standard SR-22 form with your state's minimum liability limits.
The difference lies in the coverage amounts. While an SR-22 proves you carry basic state-required coverage, an FR-44 requires higher liability protection, making it more expensive but providing better financial protection if you cause an accident.
Your state's insurance system affects what coverage you'll need during suspension. No-fault states may require you to maintain personal injury protection (PIP) coverage even when you're not driving, as this coverage follows you regardless of who causes an accident.
Fault-based states focus primarily on liability coverage requirements, while choice no-fault states like Kentucky and New Jersey let drivers choose between no-fault benefits and traditional liability-only coverage.
Getting caught without insurance while your license is suspended triggers additional penalties that vary by location. California impounds your vehicle for 30 days, while Texas can fine you up to $1,000 on top of existing penalties.
Florida takes your license plates, and New York suspends your vehicle registration entirely. These penalties can extend your suspension period and create expensive complications.
Getting your license back requires completing several steps in a specific order. You'll need to serve your full suspension period, pay reinstatement fees that range from $25 to $500 depending on your state and violation, and provide proof of insurance or file an SR-22/FR-44 if required.
Many states also require completion of driver education courses, defensive driving programs, or substance abuse treatment before reinstatement. Don't forget to pay any outstanding fines or court costs, as these can delay the entire process.
A restricted or hardship license lets you drive under limited circumstances while your license is suspended. This usually includes essential trips, such as going to work, school or medical appointments. In some states, restrictions may also include limited driving hours or routes.
To apply, you'll need to submit an SR-22, proof of your need to drive, and pay a filing fee. Once approved, you may qualify for nonstandard auto insurance coverage — which is often more expensive due to your higher risk status.
It allows limited driving privileges during suspension. These licenses can help you maintain employment and handle essential needs while serving your suspension period.
Most states consider restricted licenses for:
The restricted license application process varies by state, but most follow similar steps. Processing typically takes 2-4 weeks, so apply as soon as possible after your suspension begins.
Call or visit your local DMV office to obtain restricted license application forms and specific requirements.
Submit documentation such as employer letters, school enrollment records, or medical appointment schedules.
Include proof of insurance, SR-22 filing (if required), and any court orders or treatment program enrollment.
Fees range from $25-$150, depending on your state and violation type.
Maintain continuous coverage and any required filings throughout the restricted license period.
State | Restricted License Name | Typical Restrictions | Application Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
California | Restricted License | Work, school, medical, court | $125 |
Texas | Occupational License | Work, school, medical, household duties | $10 |
Florida | Hardship License | Work, school, medical, court | $50 |
New York | Conditional License | Work, school, medical, court | $50 |
Many insurers provide coverage for drivers with a suspended license, but your options may be limited and rates are higher due to your risk profile. Some standard insurers may still offer policies, even if you're excluded from coverage or another licensed driver is listed while high-risk specialists are more likely to approve applications and file SR-22 or FR-44 forms.
The lists provided may not include all insurance companies offering coverage for drivers with a suspended license. If you're unsure, contact the company directly to confirm.
SR-22 and FR-44 forms aren’t insurance policies but proof that you carry the minimum liability coverage required by your state. They're typically required after serious violations like a DUI, driving without insurance or driving with a suspended license.
If your license is suspended, you can still file an SR-22 or FR-44 — but you’ll need to be excluded from the policy and have a rated driver with a valid license listed instead. This setup allows you to meet state requirements, though you'll likely need high-risk or nonstandard insurance, which typically costs more.
State Farm offers the lowest rates in most states, with premiums as low as $507 in Idaho and $497 in Vermont. GEICO, Progressive and Allstate also provide coverage at reasonable rates in several states. MoneyGeek analyzed minimum coverage rates for drivers with suspended licenses using our sample driver profile.
| Alabama | Allstate | $1,237 |
| Alaska | State Farm | $1,006 |
| Arizona | State Farm | $1,264 |
| Arkansas | State Farm | $867 |
| California | Kemper | $1,676 |
| Colorado | State Farm | $1,244 |
| Connecticut | GEICO | $856 |
| Delaware | State Farm | $1,295 |
| District of Columbia | State Farm | $1,233 |
| Florida | GEICO | $1,984 |
| Georgia | Allstate | $1,455 |
| Hawaii | State Farm | $840 |
| Idaho | State Farm | $507 |
| Illinois | State Farm | $1,038 |
| Iowa | State Farm | $650 |
| Kansas | State Farm | $950 |
| Kentucky | State Farm | $1,006 |
| Maine | State Farm | $652 |
| Maryland | Progressive | $1,156 |
| Massachusetts | State Farm | $1,570 |
| Minnesota | State Farm | $1,008 |
| Mississippi | State Farm | $1,165 |
| Montana | Progressive | $871 |
| Nebraska | GEICO | $894 |
| Nevada | State Farm | $1,378 |
| New Jersey | GEICO | $1,379 |
| New Mexico | State Farm | $1,079 |
| New York | Kemper | $1,480 |
| North Carolina | Nationwide | $1,684 |
| North Dakota | GEICO | $591 |
| Oklahoma | State Farm | $1,069 |
| Oregon | State Farm | $1,002 |
| Pennsylvania | Travelers | $1,098 |
| Rhode Island | State Farm | $822 |
| South Carolina | Auto-Owners Insurance Co | $1,105 |
| South Dakota | State Farm | $835 |
| Tennessee | State Farm | $733 |
| Texas | State Farm | $1,238 |
| Vermont | State Farm | $497 |
| Virginia | State Farm | $870 |
| Washington | State Farm | $1,138 |
| West Virginia | State Farm | $936 |
| Wisconsin | State Farm | $829 |
| Wyoming | State Farm | $839 |
Each state has its own insurance regulations, minimum coverage requirements and market dynamics, which affect premiums. For example, in Florida or Virginia, you may need an FR-44 if convicted of a serious violation like a DUI. Use the table below to find the cheapest companies and rates per state based on age and coverage type.
| Alabama | State Farm | $953 | $79 |
| Alaska | State Farm | $789 | $66 |
| Arizona | Root Insurance Company | $754 | $63 |
| Arkansas | State Farm | $699 | $58 |
| California | National General | $1,280 | $107 |
| Colorado | American National P&C | $806 | $67 |
| Connecticut | State Farm | $1,031 | $86 |
| District of Columbia | Progressive | $1,206 | $101 |
| Florida | State Farm | $1,190 | $99 |
| Georgia | Country Financial | $1,094 | $91 |
| Hawaii | State Farm | $690 | $57 |
| Idaho | State Farm | $412 | $34 |
| Illinois | American Family | $844 | $70 |
| Indiana | American Family | $706 | $59 |
| Iowa | State Farm | $547 | $46 |
| Kansas | State Farm | $922 | $77 |
| Louisiana | State Farm | $1,391 | $116 |
| Maine | State Farm | $627 | $52 |
| Michigan | Chubb | $961 | $80 |
| Minnesota | State Farm | $862 | $72 |
| Mississippi | State Farm | $898 | $75 |
| Missouri | State Farm | $1,034 | $86 |
| Montana | Progressive | $520 | $43 |
| Nebraska | American National P&C | $571 | $48 |
| Nevada | State Farm | $1,050 | $87 |
| New Hampshire | Concord Group | $949 | $79 |
| North Dakota | State Farm | $680 | $57 |
| Ohio | American Family | $619 | $52 |
| Oregon | State Farm | $791 | $66 |
| South Carolina | American National P&C | $649 | $54 |
| South Dakota | State Farm | $868 | $72 |
| Tennessee | State Farm | $622 | $52 |
| Texas | Mercury | $1,218 | $101 |
| Utah | State Farm | $1,004 | $84 |
| Vermont | State Farm | $527 | $44 |
| Virginia | State Farm | $812 | $68 |
| Washington | PEMCO | $881 | $73 |
| Wisconsin | State Farm | $677 | $56 |
| Wyoming | State Farm | $808 | $67 |
Getting affordable car insurance can be tough, especially after an accident or with a suspended or revoked license. However, you can use strategies to lower your premiums and secure a reasonable rate.
Consider dropping comprehensive or collision coverage for older vehicles to save on monthly costs. Weigh the cost savings against potential out-of-pocket expenses in an at-fault accident.
Seek out discounts such as multi-policy, defensive driving course completion or good student rates.
Compare rates from multiple carriers. Switching insurers can save money, but ensure the new provider meets your coverage and service needs.
If your car has a valid registration, keep continuous insurance, as a lapse can raise your rates. Consider a non-owner policy or minimum coverage if you don't drive your car.
Some insurers specialize in high-risk drivers. Although their rates are higher than those of standard companies, they can be more competitive for drivers with a suspended license.
Taking approved courses can earn you discounts and show your commitment to safe driving. It may also be required to reinstate your driver's license.
Opt for a vehicle that's cheaper to insure. Safer vehicles or those with good repair histories often earn lower insurance rates.
A higher deductible can reduce your premium, but ensure you can afford it if you need to file a claim.
Many insurers consider your credit history when determining premiums. A good credit-based insurance score can secure better rates, even with a challenging driving record.
Insurers are notified electronically by your state’s motor vehicle department when your license is suspended, just as they are for traffic violations. Once notified, your insurer may cancel or not renew your policy, even mid-term, especially after serious offenses like a DUI or reckless driving. Depending on state law, they must give written notice 30 to 120 days in advance.
In some cases, your insurer may allow the policy to remain active but exclude you as a driver. If excluded, you won’t be covered behind the wheel even if you own the car.
If your vehicle’s registration is active, you're legally required to keep it insured — even if your license is suspended. Letting your coverage lapse can lead to:
For example, a full coverage policy from Travelers costs $1,356 per year without a lapse. If you go uninsured for less than 30 days, the rate can rise to $1,527. A lapse of over 31 days pushes it to $2,065.
Having a suspended license doesn't mean you're out of options for car insurance. While coverage will be more expensive, many companies specialize in high-risk drivers and can provide the financial protection you need.
Start by understanding your state's SR-22 or FR-44 requirements, then explore restricted license options if eligible. Don't let your coverage lapse — the penalties are severe and can extend your suspension period.
Navigating car insurance with a suspended license can be complex. Here are answers to the most common questions to help you understand your options and requirements.
You can get coverage with a suspended license. In most states, you're still legally required to register and insure your car, even with a revoked license. If you won't be driving, make sure to meet your state's minimum car insurance requirements.
If getting your own policy isn't an option, you can get a restricted driver’s license, apply for FR-44 or SR-22 or be included on a policy of a rated driver with a clean motor vehicle record.
Yes, you need to. You'll have to list a rated driver with a valid license on your policy and exclude the revoked license holder. Depending on your state, you may only be able to purchase high-risk insurance, SR-22 or FR-44, which is more expensive.
It depends on the state. Most states will let you register a vehicle with a suspended license if you have proof of insurance and documents to identify yourself.
Lying about your license status constitutes insurance fraud and can result in policy cancellation, claim denials, and potential criminal charges. Insurers verify license status through state databases, so misrepresentation will likely be discovered. Always provide accurate information when applying for coverage.
Lenders require continuous insurance coverage regardless of license status. If your license is suspended, inform your lender immediately. They may work with you to maintain coverage through alternative arrangements, such as listing another driver as primary or accepting comprehensive-only coverage during the suspension period.
You generally can't purchase insurance for a vehicle you don't own or have an insurable interest in. However, if you're listed on the vehicle's title or have a financial interest in the car, you may be able to secure coverage by listing another licensed driver as the primary operator.
A suspension is temporary and ends automatically after a specific period or when you meet certain requirements. A revocation is permanent termination of your driving privileges, though you may be able to apply for a new license after a waiting period and meeting reinstatement requirements.
Your coverage requirements remain the same during suspension. Understanding how much car insurance you need helps ensure adequate protection. You must maintain at least your state's minimum liability coverage. However, you may be able to adjust your coverage levels or add storage insurance if you won't be driving during the suspension period.
Most violations affect your rates for three to five years, but serious offenses like DUI can impact rates for five to 10 years or longer. The specific timeframe depends on your state's laws, the severity of the violation, and your insurer's policies. Some insurers may offer rate reductions after you complete defensive driving courses or maintain a clean record.
Your state's minimum coverage requirements still apply to registered vehicles. Loan and lease agreements require drivers to carry full coverage. If you're storing the vehicle, you may be able to switch to comprehensive-only coverage to protect against theft and weather damage.
An SR-22 is a certificate from your insurer that confirms you meet your state's minimum auto insurance requirements. It's often required for high-risk drivers with serious violations. While it's not an insurance policy, it serves as proof of compliance and is required for one to three years, depending on state regulations.
Getting your license suspended doesn't mean you can't get car insurance, but it does mean you'll face higher rates and fewer options. We designed our research specifically for drivers in this situation, focusing on which companies actually offer coverage and what you can realistically expect to pay when you're ready to get back on the road.
Data Collection and Scope
We collected data from state insurance departments and Quadrant Information Services, analyzing 2,474,515 quotes from 607 companies across 3,523 ZIP codes. This comprehensive dataset ensures our rate estimates reflect real-world pricing across different markets and company underwriting approaches.
Sample Driver Profile
Our analysis centers around a 40-year-old single male driving a 2012 Toyota Camry LE. We chose this profile because it represents a common demographic seeking coverage after license reinstatement,, and the mid-range vehicle helps establish baseline rates without luxury car premiums affecting the data.
We adjusted this profile across different ages, locations, and driving histories to capture how suspension-related rate increases vary by personal circumstances.
Coverage Analysis
Our rate comparisons include both coverage levels drivers with suspended licenses typically need:
Understanding Policy Limits The 100/300/100 coverage format means:
Why This Methodology Works for Your Situation
License suspension often stems from serious violations, which means your driving record significantly impacts both availability and pricing. Our research accounts for these factors and focuses on companies that don't automatically reject applicants with suspensions, giving you actionable options rather than theoretical rates you can't actually get.
About Mark Fitzpatrick
Mark Fitzpatrick, a Licensed Property and Casualty Insurance Producer, is MoneyGeek's resident Personal Finance Expert. With over five years of experience analyzing the insurance market, he conducts original research and creates tailored content for all types of buyers. His insights have been featured in publications like CNBC, NBC News and Mashable.
Fitzpatrick holds a master’s degree in economics and international relations from Johns Hopkins University and a bachelor’s degree from Boston College. He's also a five-time Jeopardy champion!
Passionate about economics and insurance, he aims to promote transparency in financial topics and empower others to make confident money decisions.
