Yes, you can get car insurance with a suspended license, but it is more challenging and significantly more expensive. You cannot legally drive the car yourself, but you may need a policy for reasons like maintaining continuous coverage, fulfilling a court order (like an SR-22), or insuring a vehicle that other permitted drivers will operate. The most common solution is a non-owner car insurance policy, which provides liability coverage when you drive vehicles you don't own.
The primary reason insurers are hesitant is the high risk associated with a suspended license, often resulting from serious violations like DUIs, multiple at-fault accidents, or excessive speeding tickets. To mitigate this risk, they will charge much higher premiums. You will also likely need to file an SR-22 or FR-44 form (a certificate of financial responsibility) with your state's DMV to prove you have the minimum required insurance before your license can be reinstated.
The table below illustrates average annual premium increases for high-risk drivers needing an SR-22 filing, though costs can vary widely by state and individual driver history.
| Driving Profile | Average Annual Premium with SR-22 | Typical Premium Increase |
|---|
| Clean Record (Post-Suspension) | $2,200 | ~80% Increase |
| With 1 Speeding Ticket | $2,800 | ~130% Increase |
| With 1 At-Fault Accident | $3,400 | ~180% Increase |
| With a DUI Conviction | $4,100 | ~250% Increase |
The process involves shopping around with companies that specialize in high-risk insurance. Be prepared to provide all required documentation and pay premiums in full upfront. The key is to maintain this insurance without any lapses until your license is fully restored and the state no longer requires the SR-22, which is typically three years.
