Car Insurance After a DUI in Illinois

Insurance rates can increase from 30% to 100% after a DUI conviction, according to Yahoo! Finance. Drivers in Illinois do have options when it comes to car insurance after a DUI, however. It’s important to maintain coverage because lapses in your car insurance history may lead to additional price hikes. 

In this blog we’ll discuss: 

• The legal consequences of getting a DUI in Illinois 
• How a DUI can affect your car insurance premiums 
• Ways to help lower the price of insurance going forward 

If you’re an Illinois driver looking for affordable car insurance after a DUI, Illinois Vehicle Insurance Agency, LLC (Illinois Vehicle) can help. At Illinois Vehicle, we work with multiple insurance companies to offer competitive rates for drivers with less-than-perfect driving records. Call our Spanish bilingual agents at 630-581-4805. 

DUI laws and penalties in Illinois 

What is considered a DUI in Illinois? 

The Illinois Secretary of State’s DUI Fact Book defines “driving under the influence” as operating a vehicle while impaired by alcohol or other drugs. As of 2025, you could be considered a DUI offender in Illinois if you: 

• Have a blood-alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08% or higher 
• Have a cannabis (THC) concentration of 5 nanograms or more per milliliter of blood (including medical cannabis) 
• Used a controlled substance 
• Drive while impaired by medication 

The law is stricter for drivers under 21 or school bus drivers: If you fall under these categories, you may be convicted of a DUI with any level of alcohol in your system. Additionally, the blood-alcohol content limit for drivers with a commercial vehicle license is 0.04%.  

What are the legal consequences of a DUI in Illinois? 

Like in most states, DUI is a serious crime in Illinois. The following are the legal penalties for adults as outlined by the Illinois State Police: 

1. First DUI conviction: 

• License suspension for 1 year (or 2 if you are under 21) 
• Up to one year of jail time 
• Fines of up to $2,500 
• Drivers with a conviction with a blood-alcohol content of 0.16% or higher get a mandatory $500 fine (in addition to any other fines) and 100 hours of community service 

2. Second DUI conviction 

• License suspension for a minimum of 5 years if you are convicted of a DUI twice in 20 years 
• Mandatory 5 days in jail or 240 hours of community service 
• Possible jail time of up to 1 year and fines of up to $2,500 
• Drivers with a blood-alcohol content of 0.16% or higher get a mandatory minimum fine of $1,250 and serve 2 days in jail (in addition to other penalties) 

Multiple convictions can lead to higher fines, longer imprisonment time, and the loss of driving privileges for multiple years. Additionally, a DUI conviction stays on your driving record permanently. 

Can you get car insurance after a DUI in Illinois? 

• After a DUI, you can get car insurance in Illinois, but a few restrictions apply: 
• Your insurance premiums might increase since insurance companies may see you as a high-risk driver. 
• Some insurance companies that exclude high-risk drivers may drop your coverage. 

You may be required to file for an SR-22 certificate. 

SR-22 Insurance requirement 

While many refer to it as “SR-22 insurance,” an SR-22 is a certificate that proves you have the minimum car insurance mandated by the state of Illinois. A driver may be required to get an SR-22 after being convicted of a serious traffic infraction, including a DUI. Typically, drivers maintain SR-22 insurance for 3 years. 

Drivers can’t file for an SR-22 certificate on their own. If the state requires you to obtain SR-22 insurance, you need to contact an insurance company that files the SR-22 form with the Illinois Secretary of State for you. 

If you need an SR-22 certificate, Illinois Vehicle is here to help. Illinois Vehicle works with multiple insurance companies that can file the SR-22 form for you. 

Insurance options after a DUI 

While having a DUI on your record may restrict your car insurance options, here are some alternatives you can try: 

• You can try staying with your current insurer. This can help you avoid lapses in coverage. Your current insurer may also file an SR-22 form for you. However, you may have to face an increase in your premiums after a DUI. 
• Shop around for a new car insurance provider. Specialized agencies work with drivers with DUIs. Agencies like Illinois Vehicle offer affordable insurance options and SR-22 filing services.  
• If your vehicle is older or paid off, you can opt for liability-only coverage. This coverage meets the state requirements while reducing costs. If your car is newer or financed, and you want additional coverage, you can choose full coverage.  

Tips to find low-cost auto insurance with a DUI 

Drivers often see a hike in their insurance premiums after getting a DUI. However, you can still try to reduce costs with these tips: 

• Moving forward, drive safely and work to maintain a clean record. Over time, insurance companies may see you as a lower-risk driver. 
• Take a defensive driving course and inform your insurance company. Some insurers offer discounts for approved courses. 
• Choose a low-risk vehicle. Sports cars or luxury models usually cost more to insure. A low-risk vehicle, such as one with low repair costs and anti-theft features, may help you save. 
• Compare quotes annually. Insurance companies may offer discounts for switching. Additionally, as you improve your driving profile, you may be able to find lower rates with various companies.  

How Illinois Vehicle can help 

Illinois Vehicle works with drivers who had a DUI, may be labeled as “high-risk,” or have a less-than-perfect driving history. We offer: 

• Affordable SR-22 filings and policies for “high-risk” drivers 
• Assistance by Spanish-bilingual agents 
• Offices throughout Illinois for in-person support 
• Fast and simple service with online quotes 
• Quotes from multiple carriers so you can choose one that fits your budget 

If you had a DUI and are looking for budget-friendly car insurance options, reach out to Illinois Vehicle. Call us for a free quote at 630-581-4805, stop by one of our Chicagoland offices, or get a car insurance quote online. 

Disclaimer:   

This material is for general informational purposes only. The products, services, and discounts referenced herein are not available in all states or from all companies. All statements are subject to the terms, exclusions, and conditions of the applicable policy. In all cases, the actual language of the policy contract prevails. Coverage is subject to individual policyholders meeting the insurer's underwriting qualifications and state availability. Other terms, conditions, and exclusions may apply.