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In Maine, impaired driving is officially classified as Operating Under the Influence (OUI), and a conviction can have far-reaching consequences—especially when it comes to auto insurance. Many drivers are surprised by how dramatically insurance rates can change after an OUI, and how long those effects can last. From increased premiums to special coverage requirements, an OUI alters your relationship with insurers in significant ways.
This post explains exactly how an OUI conviction impacts auto insurance in Maine. Whether you’re facing a recent charge or trying to understand long-term consequences, this guide covers the basics of how insurance companies evaluate risk, how long premiums stay elevated, and what to expect when renewing or applying for a new policy after an OUI.
Because Maine retains OUI offenses on your driving record permanently—and requires certain administrative actions after a conviction—understanding these changes is essential for any driver navigating life after an OUI.
Immediate Insurance Consequences After an OUI
After an OUI conviction in Maine, one of the first changes you’ll notice is a sharp increase in insurance premiums. Insurance companies view impaired driving as a serious risk factor and generally reclassify the driver as high-risk. This leads to premium hikes that can start as soon as your insurer is notified of the conviction or license suspension.
Maine law requires insurance companies to be notified when a driver is convicted of an OUI. This notification is typically triggered when your license is suspended and then reinstated—a process that requires communication with the Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV). Once your insurer is aware of the conviction, expect your rates to increase significantly, often doubling or tripling depending on your driving history and the provider’s policy.
These increased premiums can begin immediately upon renewal and may also result in your policy being canceled or non-renewed, depending on the insurer’s guidelines. Even if you manage to maintain coverage, you’ll likely be paying substantially more for the same level of protection.
The Role of SR-22 Insurance in Maine
In most cases, a driver convicted of OUI in Maine must file an SR-22 certificate to have their license reinstated. An SR-22 is not an insurance policy itself—it’s a form your insurer files with the state to prove that you carry the minimum required coverage.
SR-22 filing is mandatory for most OUI-related license suspensions in Maine. Once you’re required to carry SR-22 insurance, it typically must be maintained for three years. During that time, if the policy lapses or is canceled, the insurer must notify the state, and your license could be suspended again.
Because SR-22 is associated with high-risk drivers, policies that include this form are often much more expensive. Not all insurance companies offer SR-22 filings, which means you may have to switch providers just to meet state requirements—often at a higher cost.
How Long Higher Insurance Rates Last After an OUI
In Maine, the duration of increased insurance rates after an OUI depends on the insurance provider, but most companies maintain elevated premiums for three to five years. During this time, the OUI remains highly relevant in underwriting decisions.
After five years of clean driving—meaning no new violations or claims—some insurers may reduce your premiums, especially if you’ve shown a consistent pattern of responsible behavior. However, some companies keep OUI convictions in their rating systems for even longer, depending on their internal guidelines.
It’s also important to note that Maine has a 10-year lookback period for repeat OUI offenses. While this lookback primarily applies to criminal sentencing, some insurers also use the 10-year mark as a threshold when evaluating a driver’s long-term risk profile.
Even after premiums go down, your OUI may still be considered by insurers in risk assessments, especially when applying for a new policy or switching providers.
Shopping for Auto Insurance After an OUI
Finding affordable insurance after an OUI conviction can be challenging, but it’s not impossible. In Maine, drivers with OUI convictions are encouraged to:
- Compare quotes from multiple insurers, as pricing varies significantly between companies
- Look for providers that specialize in high-risk coverage
- Consider increasing deductibles to reduce premium costs
- Maintain a clean driving record to qualify for rate reductions over time
When applying for insurance post-OUI, expect to be asked directly about any recent convictions. Insurers will typically pull your Motor Vehicle Record (MVR), which includes OUI information, license suspensions, and reinstatement dates. Be prepared to provide documentation related to any required SR-22 filings.
Drivers should also avoid lapses in coverage, as these can further increase premiums and delay the license reinstatement process.
Long-Term Implications for Coverage and Eligibility
An OUI conviction in Maine doesn’t just increase your rates—it can also impact your eligibility for certain types of coverage. Some insurers may deny optional add-ons or limit your ability to qualify for preferred driver programs.
In severe or repeat cases, drivers may be required to purchase insurance through a non-standard insurer or assigned risk pool, which typically results in higher costs and reduced coverage options. These providers serve high-risk drivers who are unable to secure coverage through traditional means.
Even years after an OUI, you may face challenges getting competitive quotes, particularly if the conviction was part of a pattern of risky driving behavior. Maintaining continuous coverage, avoiding further violations, and demonstrating responsible driving over time are the best ways to improve your insurance standing.
OUI and Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Holders
For those who hold a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) in Maine, an OUI conviction can be even more damaging. CDL holders are held to a higher standard under federal and state law, and an OUI conviction—whether it occurs in a personal or commercial vehicle—can lead to suspension or revocation of commercial driving privileges.
Most employers in the commercial driving sector have zero-tolerance policies for OUI, and insurance companies that provide fleet coverage often exclude drivers with any impaired driving history. This means a single conviction can result in job loss, loss of licensure, and significant challenges finding new employment in the field.
Additionally, the OUI conviction remains on the driver’s MVR and CDL record, which is reviewed during routine compliance checks, audits, and renewals.
FAQ: OUI and Auto Insurance in Maine
How much does insurance go up after an OUI in Maine?
Rates can double or even triple after a conviction. The exact amount depends on the insurer, but expect substantial increases.
How long do I need SR-22 insurance in Maine after an OUI?
Most drivers are required to carry SR-22 insurance for three years after license reinstatement.
Can I get insurance after an OUI?
Yes, but it may require using a high-risk insurer. Not all companies offer SR-22 filings, so you may need to switch providers.
Will my insurance ever go back down?
Possibly. If you maintain a clean record for three to five years, some insurers will gradually reduce your premiums.
Does an OUI affect insurance even after 10 years?
While some legal consequences may expire after 10 years, certain insurers may still consider the offense when evaluating risk.
Conclusion
An OUI conviction in Maine significantly affects auto insurance costs, eligibility, and coverage. With immediate premium increases, mandatory SR-22 filings, and long-term implications for high-risk status, the financial impact of impaired driving can extend well beyond court penalties. While rates may decrease over time with clean driving, the record of the conviction remains accessible to insurers for years.
To learn more about how impaired driving charges impact long-term insurance costs and legal visibility, visit our DUI Records and Long Term Impact page. For a closer look at the insurance-specific effects, explore our guide on How a DUI Affects Auto Insurance Rates.