Have A Question? Search This Site:
Understanding the Impact of a DWI on Car Insurance in Missouri
A DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) conviction in Missouri affects more than just your legal standing—it often leads to significant and long-lasting consequences for your auto insurance coverage. Drivers who have been charged or convicted of a DWI frequently discover that their insurance premiums rise sharply, their policies change, or their coverage is dropped entirely.
This article explains how a DWI affects auto insurance in Missouri from an educational standpoint. It does not offer legal advice or recommendations on insurance purchases. Instead, it clarifies what insurers consider when evaluating drivers with DWI records, how rates are typically affected, and what to expect if you’re navigating coverage options after a conviction.
Because insurance companies base rates on risk profiles, a DWI signals to them that the driver presents a higher level of risk. Missouri insurers respond by adjusting premiums, coverage options, and renewal conditions—often for several years after the offense. Let’s explore what that looks like in practice.
Why Insurance Rates Go Up After a DWI
Auto insurance premiums in Missouri are based on risk—drivers with a clean history are generally rewarded with lower rates, while those with serious violations face increased costs. A DWI is classified by insurers as a major violation, and it significantly alters your risk profile.
Here’s why rates increase after a DWI:
- Statistical Risk – Insurers view DWI offenders as more likely to be involved in future accidents or file claims.
- Legal Compliance – Missouri law may require high-risk drivers to file an SR-22, which notifies the state of ongoing coverage and adds administrative costs.
- Policy Terms – Some insurers will not renew policies after a DWI, requiring drivers to seek coverage from higher-risk carriers.
On average, Missouri drivers can expect their auto insurance rates to increase by 50% to 100% or more following a DWI conviction. The actual amount varies based on factors like age, location, prior driving history, and the insurance provider’s policies.
How Long a DWI Affects Insurance Rates in Missouri
In Missouri, a DWI can affect your auto insurance rates for at least three years, and in many cases, up to five or more. While the points from a DWI conviction may age off your record after 18 months, the violation itself remains visible to insurers for much longer—especially when it results in license suspension or a required SR-22 filing.
Some key timelines:
- SR-22 Requirement – Typically required for 2–3 years after a DWI-related suspension
- Insurer Risk Evaluation – DWI conviction remains a rating factor for 3–5 years
- Driving Record Retention – Missouri retains some DWI-related administrative records for five to ten years, depending on the severity of the case
Even after the SR-22 is no longer required, insurers may continue charging higher premiums due to the lasting impact of the DWI on your record.
SR-22 Filings After a DWI Conviction
After a DWI conviction or license suspension in Missouri, drivers are often required to file an SR-22, a form submitted by your insurance company to prove that you carry the state’s minimum liability coverage. This is not a separate type of insurance, but rather a monitoring requirement that adds administrative complexity and cost.
Important facts about SR-22 in Missouri:
- Required after a DWI conviction or chemical test refusal
- Must be maintained for 2–3 years, depending on the situation
- Failing to maintain an active SR-22 can result in license suspension
Not all insurance companies offer SR-22 filings, so drivers may need to switch providers after a DWI. Those that do offer it often charge additional fees, and the coverage may come with stricter limitations or exclusions.
Policy Non-Renewal and Cancellation Risks
Following a DWI conviction, many Missouri drivers face non-renewal or cancellation of their current auto insurance policies. Insurance providers have the legal right to decline renewal for policyholders whose risk profiles change significantly—such as after a DWI.
This can happen in several ways:
- A policy may be canceled mid-term after the insurer learns of the conviction
- The policy may not be renewed when the term ends
- Some insurers may switch the driver to a high-risk insurance tier, with higher premiums and lower coverage limits
When this happens, drivers often need to seek new coverage from non-standard insurers that specialize in high-risk drivers. These providers offer fewer benefits and charge more, but they fulfill Missouri’s legal insurance requirements and can provide the necessary SR-22 filings.
How a DWI Affects Coverage Options
In addition to higher premiums, a DWI may lead to reduced coverage flexibility. Insurers may impose the following limitations:
- Higher deductibles for collision or comprehensive coverage
- Lower policy limits
- Exclusion of optional coverages like accident forgiveness or vanishing deductibles
- Ineligibility for multi-policy or safe driving discounts
In short, drivers with a DWI often pay more for less coverage. This can affect both personal and financial risk in the event of an accident or loss.
Even if your policy remains active, it’s important to review any changes in terms or limitations following a DWI conviction.
How to Manage Insurance After a DWI in Missouri
While a DWI does impact insurance rates, Missouri drivers still have options for managing their coverage effectively:
- Shop around – Different insurers treat DWIs differently; compare quotes from multiple high-risk providers
- Maintain continuous coverage – A lapse in insurance can lead to further penalties and higher costs
- Complete required SR-22 filings on time – Ensure your insurer files the form with the Missouri DOR and keep your policy active
- Drive safely going forward – Avoid new violations to rebuild your record over time
- Explore expungement if eligible – While expungement won’t remove administrative records, it may help reduce visibility on some background checks
Though insurance rates may remain elevated for a few years, they typically begin to decrease if no further violations occur and the driver maintains consistent, violation-free coverage.
Frequently Asked Questions About DWIs and Auto Insurance in Missouri
How much will my insurance go up after a DWI in Missouri?
Rates can increase 50% to 100% or more, depending on your insurer, location, and driving history.
How long will a DWI affect my insurance rates?
Most insurers factor in a DWI for three to five years, though some impacts—like SR-22 filings—may last longer.
Can my insurance company cancel my policy after a DWI?
Yes. Insurers can cancel or decline to renew your policy based on a DWI conviction.
Do I need special insurance after a DWI?
You may need to file an SR-22, which some insurers offer with high-risk policies.
Will my coverage change after a DWI?
Possibly. You may have fewer coverage options, higher deductibles, or lose eligibility for discounts.
Can I lower my rates after a DWI?
Over time, yes—by maintaining a clean record, staying insured, and comparing quotes regularly.
Does expungement remove DWI effects on insurance?
Not directly. Even if a conviction is expunged, administrative records and insurer databases may still reflect the offense for rating purposes.
Conclusion
A DWI in Missouri has a substantial effect on your auto insurance rates, policy terms, and eligibility for standard coverage. While the consequences may be most severe in the first few years, the financial and administrative impact can last far longer—especially with SR-22 requirements and insurer risk assessments. Still, drivers can manage these challenges by maintaining continuous coverage, comparing insurers, and avoiding further violations.
For a broader view of how DWIs shape long-term legal and personal consequences, explore the DUI Records And Long Term Impact page. To dive deeper into how insurance companies react specifically to impaired driving offenses, see How a DUI Affects Auto Insurance Rates.