Will a criminal record affect car insurance rates?
Someone with a criminal conviction is considered high-risk by car insurance companies and may be charged higher insurance rates. Find cheap car insurance online and save.
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Michelle Robbins
Licensed Insurance Agent
Michelle Robbins has been a licensed insurance agent for over 13 years. Her career began in the real estate industry, supporting local realtors with Title Insurance. After several years, Michelle shifted to real estate home warranty insurance, where she managed a territory of over 100 miles of real estate professionals. Later, Agent Robbins obtained more licensing and experience serving families a...
Licensed Insurance Agent
UPDATED: Jan 6, 2025
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Editorial Guidelines: We are a free online resource for anyone interested in learning more about auto insurance. Our goal is to be an objective, third-party resource for everything auto insurance related. We update our site regularly, and all content is reviewed by auto insurance experts.
UPDATED: Jan 6, 2025
It’s all about you. We want to help you make the right coverage choices.
Advertiser Disclosure: We strive to help you make confident car insurance decisions. Comparison shopping should be easy. We are not affiliated with any one car insurance company and cannot guarantee quotes from any single company.
Our partnerships don’t influence our content. Our opinions are our own. To compare quotes from top car companies please enter your ZIP code above to use the free quote tool. The more quotes you compare, the more chances to save.
On This Page
A criminal history could influence your car insurance with a bad record, depending on the nature of your past convictions.
Some insurance companies will not cover someone with a criminal record and others may increase the rates.
Shopping for free car insurance quotes? We can help. Just enter your zip code above and we’ll send you local quotes from top insurance providers today!
- Car insurance companies may increase their rates if you are determined to be high-risk
- People with criminal records are viewed as reckless and irresponsible
- Lying on your insurance application about your criminal record could come with consequences
What do car insurance companies use to determine rates?
Gone are the days when insurance rates were based on your age and driving record only. Now insurance companies look at very specific information when determining car insurance rates.
Here are a few factors that insurance companies take into consideration:
- Age
- Gender
- Credit history
- Location
It is in the insurance companies’ best interest to minimize risk and maximize financial gain.
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Why does a criminal record matter?
Car insurance companies take criminal records very seriously. Someone who has been previously convicted of a hit-and-run crime or a DUI is considered a high-risk customer.
A conviction increases the likelihood that you will involve yourself in reckless behavior in the future.
According to the National Highway Safety Administration, over one-third of DUI convictions are repeat offenders.
This is why many insurance companies are leery of taking high-risk customers under their wing, and if they do, the individual is certainly going to face higher rates.
The National Driver Register contains records of those who are considered “problem drivers.”
Your state’s DMV is required to report if you have ever had your driving privileges:
- Suspended
- Revoked
- Cancelled
- Denied
The records stay on the list as long as your state’s record keeping requirements require.
If you would like to find out if you are on the list, you can send a notarized letter addressed to the National Driver Register requesting a check on your name.
Read More:
- Compare Best Car Insurance Companies That Don’t Report to the DMV When They Cancel a Customer
- Can car insurance companies check police records?
- How far back do car insurance companies look?
- Compare Car Insurance Rates After a Conviction
How do I apply for insurance with a criminal record?
On most car insurance applications, you will see a question that asks if you’ve ever been convicted of a crime. Whatever you do, don’t lie about it.
Sure you may end up having to pay more for insurance, but if you ever get into an accident and the insurance company finds out that you lied on the application, they may have grounds to dismiss your claim.
Lying on an insurance application is considered insurance fraud.
Insurance companies have a standard lookback period. Depending on where you live, it’s usually a standard 5-year period.
However, if you live in Massachusetts, they can look back up to 10 years on your criminal record.
While reviewing your lookback period, the insurer will most likely consider traffic citations, vehicular crimes, and even accident reports.
Serious offenses such as DUI convictions or vehicular manslaughter could double the cost of your premium.
What kind of insurance should I get if I have a criminal record?
There are the types of car insurance coverage that make up a basic car insurance policy:
- Bodily Injury Liability
- Property Damage Liability
- Personal Injury Protection
- Collision
- Comprehensive
- Uninsured or Underinsured
This list does not mean that you are required to have all of these. If you are concerned about the high costs of insurance associated with a criminal record, then you may consider only purchasing what coverage you actually need.
Of course, you must meet your specific state’s minimum car insurance requirements first.
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How can I get rid of my criminal record?
The good news is there may be a way to clean up your record. While your record won’t disappear entirely from the face of the earth, it will no longer be available to the general public.
It’s important to note that each state has its own requirements for expunging a record.
It is in your best interest to hire a criminal attorney who knows all the ins and outs of the law. Legal counsel can help you determine if your case is eligible for expungement; they can also represent you and help you with filing all court-related documents.
Most importantly, they can plead your best possible case in front of the judge.
An expunged record means a fresh new start. With your records locked away in a vault somewhere, you can now say that you have never been convicted of a crime.
Another benefit is car insurance rates will be much lower than with a conviction on your record.
Before you choose a car insurance company, be sure to shop around. Just because one company doesn’t offer insurance to high-risk customers doesn’t mean that you won’t find one who will.
Comparing multiple quotes will help you determine the best coverage for the best rate. Just enter your zip code into our free search box and find the best policy for you today!
Navigating Car Insurance with a Criminal Record: What You Need to Know
Having car insurance with a criminal record can significantly impact your insurance rates. Insurance companies typically view individuals with criminal records as high-risk drivers, which often results in higher premiums. But can you get car insurance with a criminal record? Yes, you can, though it may require more effort to find an insurer willing to provide coverage. Specialized car insurance for those with criminal convictions is available from companies that cater to high-risk drivers, offering tailored policies that consider the unique challenges these drivers face.
Many people wonder, do car insurance companies check criminal records? The answer is yes; insurance providers conduct thorough background checks to assess the risk level of applicants. So, does a felony affect car insurance? Absolutely, felonies can lead to significantly higher premiums or even denial of coverage from certain insurers. Some providers, like Admiral offer car insurance policies specifically for individuals with criminal convictions, making it easier to find suitable coverage.
A thorough background check for insurance companies helps them gather information about your driving history and any criminal offenses, directly influencing your insurance rates. Finding the best car insurance for convicted drivers involves researching companies that specialize in high-risk coverage. Despite the challenges, car insurance with a bad driving record can still find suitable policies by focusing on insurers who understand their needs.
For those with a criminal past, knowing car insurance companies that accept felons is crucial. Some insurers do not consider criminal records in their underwriting process, providing options for those seeking car insurance companies that don’t ask for criminal convictions. For instance, convicted drivers or those with convictions in the last 5 years need to look for specialized car insurance coverage. Options like car insurance for criminal convictions, car insurance for ex-offenders, and car insurance for people with convictions are designed to help high-risk drivers find affordable rates.
If you’re seeking car insurance for someone with a criminal record, comparing car insurance quotes for convicted drivers can help you find the most affordable options. While finding cheap car insurance is more challenging, there are cheap car insurance for convicted drivers and cheap car insurance for criminal convictions available. It’s important to be honest when declaring criminal conviction in car insurance, as this ensures proper coverage and avoids future claim complications. Researching insurance companies for convicted drivers and insurance companies for drivers with convictions can help you find the best rates. Avoid lying about your address on car insurance as it can lead to severe penalties. Even a minor conviction can make car insurance more expensive, but options like temporary car insurance for convicted drivers and knowing which insurance companies do not ask about criminal convictions can provide solutions.
Case Studies: Impact of Criminal Records on Car Insurance Rates
Case Study 1: DUI Conviction
John has a criminal record that includes a DUI conviction from two years ago. When he applied for car insurance, he disclosed his conviction as required. As a result, insurance companies consider John a high-risk customer due to the increased likelihood of reckless behavior on the road. Consequently, John is charged higher insurance rates compared to individuals with clean driving records.
Case Study 2: Hit-and-Run Incident
Sarah was involved in a hit-and-run accident a few years ago and was subsequently convicted of the offense. When she applied for car insurance, she faced difficulty finding coverage due to her criminal record. Some insurance companies may refuse to provide coverage to individuals with hit-and-run convictions, while others may offer coverage at significantly higher premiums.
Case Study 3: Multiple Traffic Violations
Michael has a history of multiple traffic violations, including reckless driving and speeding tickets. These convictions have resulted in increased insurance rates for Michael. Insurance companies consider individuals with a pattern of traffic violations as higher-risk drivers, as they are more likely to be involved in accidents.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of criminal convictions can impact car insurance rates?
Various convictions can impact car insurance rates, including DUI/DWI, reckless driving, hit-and-run, driving without a license, and other serious traffic violations.
How long will a criminal record affect my car insurance rates?
The impact of a criminal record on car insurance rates can vary. Generally, insurance companies consider recent convictions within the past five years. However, some states have longer lookback periods, and certain offenses may have a more prolonged effect.
Can I still get car insurance if I have a criminal record?
Yes, it is generally possible to obtain car insurance with a criminal record. However, not all insurance companies may be willing to provide coverage, and those that do may charge higher premiums.
Will my car insurance rates go down if my criminal record is expunged?
Expunging your criminal record can have a positive impact on your car insurance rates. Insurance companies often offer lower rates to individuals with clean records, as they are considered lower-risk customers.
Can I remove my criminal record from my driving record?
Your criminal record and driving record are separate entities. Expunging a criminal record does not automatically remove it from your driving record. You may need to follow specific procedures to clean your driving record.
How can I find car insurance companies that offer coverage to individuals with criminal records?
Researching and comparing car insurance providers is crucial. Some insurers specialize in providing coverage to high-risk individuals, including those with criminal records. Working with an insurance agent or using online comparison tools can help you find suitable options.
Does a criminal record affect car insurance?
Yes, a criminal record can affect car insurance rates. Insurance companies view individuals with criminal records as higher risk, which can result in higher premiums or even denial of coverage.
Do insurance companies check criminal records?
Yes, insurance companies often check criminal records to assess the risk level of applicants. This background check helps them determine the appropriate rates and coverage options.
Can you work in insurance with a criminal record?
It depends on the nature of the criminal record and the specific regulations of the state or country. Some positions within the insurance industry may have restrictions for individuals with certain types of criminal convictions.
Do I have to declare spent convictions to insurance companies?
Generally, you do not have to declare spent convictions to insurance companies. However, it is essential to understand the specific regulations in your region, as they can vary.
Do insurance policies cover intentional losses?
No, insurance policies do not cover intentional losses. Insurance is designed to cover accidental and unforeseen events, not deliberate actions taken by the policyholder.
Do speeding tickets affect Geico insurance?
Yes, speeding tickets can affect insurance rates with Geico. Traffic violations, including speeding tickets, are considered when determining your risk profile and can lead to higher premiums.
Does a misdemeanor affect car insurance?
Yes, a misdemeanor can affect car insurance rates. Depending on the nature of the misdemeanor, it may be viewed as an indication of higher risk, resulting in increased premiums.
Does a criminal record affect credit score?
No, a criminal record does not directly affect your credit score. However, related financial issues, such as fines or legal fees, could impact your credit if they result in unpaid debts.
Does getting arrested affect your credit score?
Getting arrested does not directly affect your credit score. However, any resulting financial consequences, such as unpaid fines or legal costs, could negatively impact your credit if they lead to unpaid debts.
Does my husband’s criminal record affect you?
Your husband’s criminal record does not directly affect you or your credit score. However, it could have indirect effects, such as higher insurance premiums for shared policies or difficulties in joint financial applications.
How far back do insurance companies check for DUI?
Insurance companies typically check for DUI convictions going back five to ten years, depending on the company’s policies and the state regulations.
How long do I have to declare drunk driving to insurance?
You generally have to declare drunk driving convictions to insurance companies for five years from the date of the conviction, but this period can vary based on the insurer and state regulations.
How long do motoring convictions last?
Motoring convictions can remain on your driving record for three to eleven years, depending on the severity of the offense and state regulations.
How long does an accident stay on insurance?
Accidents typically stay on your insurance record for three to five years, but this can vary by insurer and state regulations.
What convictions affect car insurance?
Convictions that can affect car insurance include DUI/DWI, reckless driving, hit-and-run, and other serious traffic offenses. These convictions indicate a higher risk to insurers and can lead to increased premiums or denial of coverage.
What happens if you don’t tell insurance about convictions?
If you don’t tell your insurance company about convictions, it can result in denied claims, policy cancellations, or even accusations of insurance fraud, which could further complicate your legal and financial situation.
Which car insurance companies do not ask about criminal convictions?
Some smaller or high-risk insurance providers may not ask about criminal convictions. However, it’s essential to research and confirm this with the insurer directly.
Why do insurance companies ask for 5 years convictions?
Insurance companies ask for convictions from the past five years to assess the recent risk profile of the applicant. This timeframe helps them determine the likelihood of future claims based on recent behavior.
Why is my car insurance so high with a clean record?
Car insurance can be high despite a clean record due to factors such as location, vehicle type, coverage level, and even credit score. Insurers consider multiple factors beyond just driving history.
What major convictions will affect eligibility, and under what criteria?
Major convictions affect eligibility based on criteria such as the severity of the offense, the time elapsed since the conviction, and the insurer’s policies. These can lead to higher premiums or denial of coverage.
What minor convictions will affect eligibility, and under what criteria?
Minor convictions can affect eligibility based on the frequency of offenses, the time since the last conviction, and the insurer’s risk assessment policies. These may result in higher premiums but are less likely to lead to denial of coverage compared to major convictions.
Free Car Insurance Comparison
Enter your ZIP code below to view companies that have cheap car insurance rates.
Secured with SHA-256 Encryption
Michelle Robbins
Licensed Insurance Agent
Michelle Robbins has been a licensed insurance agent for over 13 years. Her career began in the real estate industry, supporting local realtors with Title Insurance. After several years, Michelle shifted to real estate home warranty insurance, where she managed a territory of over 100 miles of real estate professionals. Later, Agent Robbins obtained more licensing and experience serving families a...
Licensed Insurance Agent
Editorial Guidelines: We are a free online resource for anyone interested in learning more about auto insurance. Our goal is to be an objective, third-party resource for everything auto insurance related. We update our site regularly, and all content is reviewed by auto insurance experts.