Getting convicted of a DUI (Driving Under the Influence) in Canada comes with serious consequences. Aside from legal penalties, one of the biggest challenges you’ll face is finding affordable car insurance after a DUI.
Insurance companies view drivers with a DUI as high‑risk, which means your premiums can skyrocket sometimes doubling or tripling overnight.
But here’s the good news: with the right knowledge and strategies, you can still get affordable car insurance after a DUI in Canada.
This guide explains everything you need to know about how a DUI affects your insurance, what steps you can take to lower your rates, and which insurers are more forgiving toward drivers with a record.
How a DUI Affects Car Insurance in Canada
After a DUI conviction:
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Your driver’s licence is usually suspended.
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You are required to file an SR‑22 (or equivalent) in some provinces to prove you have insurance.
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You may only qualify for high‑risk car insurance, which costs more.
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Your insurance rates can increase by 100–300%.
A DUI stays on your driving record for at least 3 to 5 years, and insurers consider it when setting your premium during that time.
According to industry data, the average car insurance premium for a Canadian driver after a DUI is around $3,000–$5,000 per year, compared to the national average of $1,300–$1,800 for clean drivers.
Can You Still Get Car Insurance After a DUI?
Yes.
Even after a DUI, you are still eligible to buy car insurance but you’ll likely need to work with high‑risk insurance providers.
Some insurers specialize in covering drivers with serious offences like DUI, at‑fault accidents, or licence suspensions. They may charge higher premiums but can help you stay legal and on the road.
Tips for Getting Affordable Car Insurance After a DUI
Here are proven ways to save money on your car insurance after a DUI in Canada:
1. Shop Around Extensively
Not all insurers treat DUIs equally. Some companies offer better rates for high‑risk drivers. Get quotes from multiple insurers, including those specializing in high‑risk policies.
2. Choose the Right Vehicle
Driving a low‑risk, affordable car in a lower insurance category can help offset your higher risk profile.
3. Opt for Higher Deductibles
Agreeing to pay a higher deductible (the amount you pay before insurance kicks in) lowers your monthly premium.
4. Take a Defensive Driving Course
Some provinces offer approved driving courses that, once completed, can help reduce your premium even after a DUI.
5. Improve Your Credit Score
In some provinces (like Alberta and Ontario), insurers consider your credit history when calculating premiums. A better score can help you save.
6. Drive Less
Some insurers offer discounts if you drive fewer kilometres per year. Consider carpooling, public transit, or walking where possible.
7. Install a Monitoring Device
Telematics, also called a black box, tracks your driving habits. Safe driving over time may lead to reduced premiums.
Best Insurance Companies for Drivers with a DUI in Canada
Some insurance companies are known for providing better rates and service to high‑risk drivers, including those with a DUI.
| Insurance Company | Best For | Average Annual Premium After DUI |
|---|---|---|
| Intact Insurance | Nationwide coverage & flexibility | $4,500 |
| Economical Insurance | High‑risk drivers & flexible payments | $4,200 |
| Aviva Canada | Forgiving policies & competitive rates | $4,300 |
| Facility Association | Last‑resort insurer for very high‑risk drivers | $5,000+ |
| Coachman Insurance (Ontario) | High‑risk Ontario drivers | $4,400 |
| Pembridge Insurance | Affordable for moderate‑risk drivers | $4,000 |
Estimates based on Canadian drivers in 2024–2025 with a single DUI on their record. Rates vary widely depending on province, age, and driving history.
How Long Does a DUI Affect Your Car Insurance in Canada?
The length of time a DUI impacts your insurance depends on the province and the insurer. Generally:
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A DUI stays on your driving record for 3–5 years.
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Some insurers may consider your DUI for up to 6 years when calculating premiums.
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After this period, your rates can gradually decrease if you maintain a clean record.
Why It’s Important to Maintain Coverage After a DUI
Even if your premium is high, don’t let your insurance lapse. A gap in coverage can:
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Make you look even riskier to insurers.
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Cause even higher premiums later.
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Leave you personally liable for damages if you drive without insurance.
Maintaining continuous insurance even with a high‑risk policy — is better than letting it lapse.
Understanding SR‑22 (or Equivalent) in Canada
Some provinces may require you to provide proof of insurance to the government after a DUI. While the term “SR‑22” is used more in the US, in Canada the equivalent is often called a Certificate of Automobile Insurance or a Proof of Financial Responsibility.
You may need to file this document for 1–3 years after your conviction to keep your licence.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Getting Insurance After a DUI
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Not disclosing your DUI (insurers will find out when they check your record).
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Failing to shop around.
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Choosing the wrong type of coverage (e.g., too much or too little).
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Letting your policy lapse.
How Much Does Car Insurance Increase After a DUI?
On average:
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A clean driver pays around $1,500/year.
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After a DUI, the average premium rises to $4,000–$5,000/year.
Some factors that influence your rate after a DUI:
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Province of residence.
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How many previous offences you have.
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Type of vehicle you drive.
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Your age and driving experience.
Summary Table: Affordable Car Insurance After a DUI in Canada
| Key Point | Details |
|---|---|
| Why expensive? | DUI marks you as high‑risk |
| Best insurers | Intact, Economical, Aviva, Coachman |
| Average premium after DUI | $4,000–$5,000/year |
| How long it affects you | 3–6 years |
| Ways to save | Shop around, defensive driving course, telematics |
| Vehicle choice | Low‑risk, affordable car |
| Must you disclose DUI? | Yes |
| Why keep coverage? | To avoid gaps and even higher premiums later |
Real‑World Example: How Emily Cut Her Post‑DUI Premium by $1,200
Emily, a 29‑year‑old from British Columbia, was paying $4,800/year after her DUI.
She:
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Switched to a Honda Civic.
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Took a defensive driving course.
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Shopped around and switched to Economical Insurance.
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Installed a telematics device.
Her premium dropped to $3,600/year — saving her $1,200.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can you get affordable car insurance after a DUI in Canada?
Yes, though it will likely be more expensive than before. You can lower your rate by shopping around, improving your driving habits, and choosing the right vehicle.
How long does a DUI stay on your driving record in Canada?
Typically, 3–5 years, depending on the province and insurer.
Do all insurers cover drivers with a DUI?
No. Some insurers refuse to insure high‑risk drivers, but there are companies that specialize in this market.
Is high‑risk insurance the same as regular insurance?
Yes, it still provides the same legal coverage but costs more due to your risk profile.
Can I drive without insurance if my premium is too high?
No. Driving without insurance is illegal and can lead to fines, licence suspension, and even jail time.
Will taking a driving course help reduce my premium?
Yes, in many cases a certified defensive driving course can help lower your rates even after a DUI.
What if I have more than one DUI?
Your options become more limited, and rates will be higher. You may need to use the Facility Association or similar last‑resort insurers.
Does the type of car I drive affect my premium after a DUI?
Yes. Cars with lower repair costs, better safety ratings, and lower theft rates are cheaper to insure.
Should I pay monthly or annually?
Paying annually is usually cheaper because monthly payments often include interest.
Can I remove the DUI from my record early?
No. You must wait the required number of years before it no longer affects your rates.
Conclusion: Take Control of Your Car Insurance After a DUI
A DUI conviction can feel like the end of affordable car insurance but it doesn’t have to be.
By taking smart steps like shopping around, driving safely, choosing the right car, and working with the right insurers, you can lower your premiums over time and stay on the road legally.
Start by getting quotes from at least three high‑risk insurance providers today, and ask about discounts for safe driving, defensive courses, and telematics. With patience and good habits, your premiums will improve as your record clears.