Having your driver’s license suspended can feel overwhelming. Whether it’s due to a DUI, unpaid tickets, or lapses in insurance coverage, the consequences are serious. But one question many Americans face is: “Can I still get car insurance with a suspended license?”

The short answer is yes — but it’s more complicated, often more expensive, and requires the right approach. In this in-depth guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about getting car insurance with a suspended license in the USA, including:

Why your license may be suspended.
Whether you can buy or keep insurance with a suspended license.
SR-22 and FR-44 insurance requirements.
How to lower costs even if you’re a high-risk driver.
The best steps to reinstate your license.

Why Do Licenses Get Suspended?

Before learning how to get insurance, it’s important to understand why licenses are suspended in the first place.

Common reasons for license suspension in the U.S.:

Driving Under the Influence (DUI/DWI) – One of the most serious violations.
Excessive Traffic Violations – Too many speeding tickets or moving violations.
Failure to Pay Fines or Child Support – Legal obligations can impact your license.
Uninsured Driving – Driving without mandatory auto insurance.
Serious Accidents Without Coverage – At-fault accidents with no liability insurance.
Fraudulent Activity – Using false information for licenses or insurance.

👉 Each state has its own rules, but most suspensions last from 30 days to several years, depending on the offense.

Can You Get Car Insurance with a Suspended License?

The good news: Yes, you can get insurance even with a suspended license. However, it won’t be as simple as purchasing a standard policy.

Why would you need insurance with a suspended license?

To reinstate your license (states often require proof of insurance).
To maintain coverage for a car you still own.
To get SR-22 or FR-44 insurance as required by the state.
To keep your insurance history active (avoiding gaps that raise premiums later).

✅ Tip: Even if you can’t drive legally, maintaining continuous coverage keeps your record cleaner for when you’re reinstated.

Understanding SR-22 and FR-44 Insurance

If your license was suspended, your state may require you to file a special insurance form.

What is SR-22 Insurance?

An SR-22 is not insurance itself but a certificate filed by your insurer with the DMV.
It proves you carry the minimum liability coverage required by law.
Required after DUI, uninsured driving, or multiple violations.

What is FR-44 Insurance?

Similar to SR-22 but with higher liability coverage requirements.
Only required in certain states like Florida and Virginia.
Usually applies after severe DUI offenses.

👉 Both SR-22 and FR-44 make you a high-risk driver, meaning premiums will be higher.

How to Buy Car Insurance with a Suspended License

Here’s a step-by-step process to secure coverage in 2025:

1. Contact High-Risk Insurance Providers

Not all insurance companies cover suspended license drivers. Look for insurers specializing in non-standard or high-risk auto insurance.

2. Apply for an SR-22 or FR-44 (if required)

Your insurance company must file this form with your DMV.
Expect additional fees ($15–$50 filing fee).

3. Consider a Named-Driver Exclusion

If someone else drives your car (like a spouse or family member), you can exclude yourself from the policy while suspended. This helps reduce costs.

4. Maintain Non-Owner Car Insurance

If you don’t own a vehicle but need insurance to reinstate your license, a non-owner SR-22 policy is a cost-effective option.

5. Compare Multiple Quotes

High-risk insurance rates vary drastically between companies. Always shop around.

How Much Does Car Insurance Cost with a Suspended License?

Unfortunately, insurance with a suspended license is often 2–3 times more expensive than standard coverage.

Factors affecting cost:

Reason for suspension (DUI vs. unpaid tickets).
State requirements (some states mandate higher coverage).
Driving history (accidents, violations, lapses in insurance).
Type of insurance policy (owner vs. non-owner policy).

✅ Example: A driver with a DUI may pay $250–$400 per month for SR-22 coverage, while a driver suspended for unpaid tickets may pay less.

Best Insurance Options for Suspended License Drivers in 2025

Some companies are more willing to work with high-risk drivers than others.

Popular insurers offering SR-22 / high-risk insurance include:

Progressive – Known for SR-22 filings and flexible coverage.
Dairyland Insurance – Specializes in high-risk drivers.
The General – Offers coverage when other companies deny.
State Farm – Provides SR-22 in many states.
GEICO – May offer cheaper non-owner SR-22 policies.

Tips to Lower Insurance Costs with a Suspended License

Even as a high-risk driver, there are ways to reduce premiums:

✅ Take a Defensive Driving Course – Some states lower penalties and insurance costs.
✅ Bundle Insurance Policies – Combine auto with renters/homeowners insurance.
✅ Maintain Continuous Coverage – Avoid lapses, even if you can’t drive.
✅ Raise Deductibles – Higher deductibles lower monthly premiums.
✅ Improve Credit Score – In most states, better credit = lower premiums.
✅ Drive Safely After Reinstatement – Build a clean driving record.

How to Reinstate Your License After Suspension

Car insurance is only one part of the reinstatement process.

Steps to reinstate your license:

Complete suspension period (varies by state).
Pay reinstatement fees to the DMV.
Provide SR-22 or FR-44 proof of insurance (if required).
Complete court-ordered requirements (like DUI school).
Submit all documents to your state DMV.

Once reinstated, your premiums will remain high for a few years but should gradually decrease with good behavior.

Pros and Cons of Getting Insurance with a Suspended License

✅ Pros:

Keeps coverage active.
Allows license reinstatement.
Protects financial liability if others drive your car.

❌ Cons:

Higher premiums.
Limited provider options.
May require SR-22 or FR-44 filings.

Common Mistakes Drivers Make

❌ Canceling insurance during suspension (leads to higher future rates).
❌ Ignoring SR-22/FR-44 requirements (can extend suspension).
❌ Choosing the cheapest plan without checking coverage.
❌ Not comparing quotes from multiple high-risk insurers.

FAQs About Car Insurance with a Suspended License

Q1. Can I insure my car if my license is suspended?
Yes, but you’ll likely need high-risk insurance or a non-owner policy.

Q2. How long do I need SR-22 insurance?
Most states require 3 years, but it varies.

Q3. Can I drive with insurance if my license is suspended?
No — having insurance does not allow you to drive. You must wait for reinstatement.

Q4. Is non-owner SR-22 cheaper?
Yes, if you don’t own a car, this is the most affordable way to maintain coverage.

Q5. Will insurance rates go down after reinstatement?
Yes, but it may take 3–5 years of clean driving history.

Final Thoughts

Getting car insurance with a suspended license in 2025 is challenging but absolutely possible. Whether you need it to reinstate your license, maintain coverage, or meet state requirements, there are insurance companies ready to work with high-risk drivers.

The key steps are:

Understand why your license was suspended.
File for SR-22 or FR-44 insurance if required.
Compare quotes from high-risk insurers.
Consider non-owner policies if you don’t own a car.
Maintain continuous coverage to avoid higher costs later.

👉 Bottom line: A suspended license isn’t the end of your driving future — with the right insurance strategy, you can protect yourself financially and work toward getting back on the road legally.

“How to Get Car Insurance with a Suspended License”