What a DUI Does to Your Auto Insurance in 2026
I want to be direct with you about this, because the numbers are significant. If you're reading this after a DUI conviction — or you know someone who is — understanding what's coming with your auto insurance is important for planning. And if you haven't had a DUI, this is a clear picture of why it's one of the most expensive decisions a driver can make.
AutoInsurance.com's 2026 pricing trends report shows DUI drivers are facing approximately 35% auto insurance premium increases this year. That's not a one-time hit — a DUI typically stays on your driving record for 3 to 10 years depending on your state, and your auto insurance rates reflect that elevated risk classification for the entire period.
Teen Drivers Are Seeing Significant Hikes Too
Teen drivers — statistically the highest-risk group on the road — are seeing approximately 17% premium increases in 2026. If you have a teen driver on your auto insurance policy, you already know how dramatically they affect the monthly premium. This year's increases compound that further.
The strategies for managing teen driver costs are the same they've always been: keep them on your policy rather than a separate one (usually cheaper), enroll them in defensive driving courses that qualify for discounts, and make sure their vehicle is rated conservatively for insurance purposes. The General and other high-risk-market auto insurance providers can also be worth comparing if your current carrier's rates have become difficult to manage.
Clean Drivers Are in the Best Position They've Been in Years
Here's the flip side of risk-based pricing: if you have a clean record, 2026 is potentially a good year to shop your auto insurance. Five of the ten largest US auto insurers are cutting rates this year, and Allstate — among those raising prices — is only increasing by 1.98%, the smallest hike among major carriers raising prices at all.
Compare your auto insurance quotes actively. USAA, GEICO, Liberty Mutual, and Costco's auto insurance program all have competitive options for drivers with clean records. Don't let your loyalty to a current carrier cost you money you don't have to spend.
