Can you get car insurance with drink driving convictions?
Drink driving convictions doesn't necessarily mean you won't be able to get car insurance. But you should expect additional challenges. Here's what you need to know.
Key takeaways
Car insurance premiums are likely to be higher for drivers with drink driving convictions due to higher perceived risks and potential for more frequent claims
Drivers must declare any drink driving convictions when applying for car insurance for a period typically lasting five years. Failing to do so can lead to policy invalidation and legal consequences
Drivers with a history of drink driving can still get cover by demonstrating responsible behaviour, completing rehabilitation programs, and consulting with specialised insurance brokers

Can you get car insurance with a history of drink driving?
Getting car insurance if you've got a drink driving conviction can be challenging, but it's not impossible.
Much will depend on the severity of the offence, the time elapsed since the conviction, and any rehabilitation schemes you've undertaken since the conviction was issued.
To improve your chances of obtaining car insurance, consider enrolling in a recognised driving course, such as the Drink Drive Rehabilitation Scheme (DDRS).
Demonstrating responsible financial behaviour and maintaining a clean driving record post-conviction can also be beneficial.
Additionally, consulting with insurance brokers who specialise in high-risk profiles may provide more suitable options and tailored advice.
Do I have to declare previous drink driving convictions?
When applying for car insurance, it's crucial to be upfront about any previous drink driving convictions.
Here's why honesty matters and what could happen if you don't declare these offences:
Honesty is key: Insurance companies assess risk based on the truthfulness of your application. Not disclosing your drink driving history can be seen as fraudulent
Risk of policy invalidation: If past convictions are not disclosed, your insurer might cancel your policy. This leaves you without cover when you need it most
Legal repercussions: Failing to be honest on your application could lead to legal action. This might include fines or further penalties
Higher premiums: Insurers often raise premiums for drivers with convictions. By declaring your history, you ensure that your policy is correctly priced
Peace of mind: Being transparent allows you to drive with confidence, knowing that your insurance is valid and effective
For how long do I need to declare drink driving offences to my insurer?
Under UK law, specific statutory periods require you to declare any drink driving convictions when applying for car insurance.
Typically, insurers mandate disclosure of such offences for five years from the conviction date. This period significantly affects your insurance premiums.
A drink driving offence on your record usually results in higher insurance rates due to the increased risk perceived by insurers.
It is crucial to comply with these requirements to ensure your policy is valid and to avoid potential legal complications.
Will my car insurance be more expensive with a history of drink driving?
If you have a history of drink driving, expect higher car insurance premiums. Here's why:
Risk factor: Insurers view drivers with drink driving convictions as higher risks. Past behaviour often predicts future actions. Convicted drivers are seen as more likely to claim
Statistical evidence: Data indicates that drivers with drink driving convictions are more accident-prone. This statistical link makes insurers cautious, leading to higher premiums
Legal and administrative costs: Managing policies for convicted drivers involves more legal and administrative work. This extra effort translates into higher costs for the insurer, which are passed on to you
Reinsurance rates: Insurers may face higher costs insuring someone with a drink driving conviction. They often need additional reinsurance to cover potential large claims, increasing your premium
How much more can I expect to pay for car insurance if I have drink driving convictions?
As you'd expect, premiums for drivers with drink driving convictions can be significantly higher. The increase varies, but rates doubling or even tripling are not uncommon, depending on the conviction's severity and recency
What are the penalties for drink driving in the UK?
Drink driving in the UK attracts severe penalties. If found guilty, the offender faces hefty fines.
These fines can escalate depending on the offence's severity. Typically, fines can reach up to thousands of pounds. This puts a substantial financial strain on the individual.
Apart from monetary penalties, a driving ban is almost inevitable. This prohibition from driving can last for several months or even years. The length of the ban generally depends on the incident's gravity and any previous convictions.
These penalties extend beyond just fines and bans. They can profoundly affect both personal and professional lives.
Losing the ability to drive can mean not just a loss of independence. It can also severely impact job opportunities, especially for those whose employment requires driving.
The stigma of a drink driving conviction can also tarnish personal relationships and social standing.