Yes, you can still get car insurance with a suspended license—and in many cases, you should. Keeping coverage active helps avoid costly premium hikes later. Drivers with coverage gaps can pay up to 30% more when reinstating insurance.
Having your license suspended is never fun—it can seriously disrupt your daily life. Most importantly, you must not drive while your license is suspended. Doing so is illegal and can lead to harsh consequences, including misdemeanor charges, steep fines, and even jail time. For instance, repeat offenders in Tennessee can face up to 1 year in jail and a $2,500 fine for driving on a suspended license.
The good news? You can still handle the insurance side responsibly. Keeping your coverage active puts you in a much better position to get back on the road legally and affordably once you’re eligible to drive again.
Call Insure on the Spot at 773-202-5060 for help!
What Is a License Suspension (and How Is It Different from a Revocation)?
A driver’s license suspension means your state’s motor vehicles department has temporarily invalidated your license, banning you from legally driving for a defined period. You must meet certain requirements set by the state (such as paying fines or taking a course) to have the suspension lifted and your driving privileges reinstated.
This is different from a license revocation, which is a full cancellation of your license – if revoked, your driving privilege is terminated, and you may have to reapply for a new license (often after a longer waiting period or not at all, depending on the offense). In short, a suspension is usually temporary and fixable, whereas a revocation is more permanent.
Why would a license be suspended? There are many reasons a state might suspend your license, typically related to serious or repeated infractions. Common causes include:
- Driving Under the Influence (DUI) – Being convicted of a DUI is one of the most frequent reasons for suspension in all states.
- Too Many Traffic Violations or Points – Racking up multiple tickets or points on your driving record in a short time can trigger a suspension (many states suspend a license after, say, 3 moving violations within 12 months or if you exceed a point threshold).
- Driving Without Insurance or Proof of Insurance – If you’re caught driving uninsured or fail to show proof of insurance when required, your license can be suspended in many states.
- Unpaid Fines or Child Support – Failing to pay court fines, traffic tickets, or delinquent child support can lead to a license suspension as a penalty.
- Serious Driving Offenses – Offenses like reckless driving, hit-and-run, or vehicular assault may result in immediate suspension of your license.
These are just a few examples – the exact reasons and rules vary by state. The key point is that during the suspension period, you cannot legally drive until you fulfill the state’s requirements and the suspension is lifted.
Do I Need Car Insurance if My License Is Suspended?
If you’re not allowed to drive for now, you might wonder: Do I really need car insurance while my license is suspended?
The short answer is yes – in most cases, it’s wise (or even required) to keep your car insured. Here are several reasons why maintaining at least basic insurance coverage during a suspension is important:
- Avoid Coverage Lapses: Letting your insurance lapse can raise your future premiums by up to 30%. Keeping coverage maintains your continuous insurance history and saves you money later.
- Meet Legal Requirements: In most states (including Illinois), any registered vehicle must be insured, even if it’s not driven. Skipping insurance could result in fines or a longer suspension.
- Reinstate Your License: To get your license back, you’ll likely need proof of insurance and possibly an SR-22 form. No active policy means no SR-22—and no license reinstatement.
- Get a Restricted License: If you’re eligible for a restricted license (for work, school, etc.), insurance is mandatory. Keeping your policy active increases your chances of approval.
- Protect Your Vehicle: Even parked, your car can be damaged, stolen, or vandalized. Comprehensive insurance covers non-driving risks. If your car is financed or leased, coverage is required regardless of license status.
Unless you’ve sold your car and truly have no vehicle, it’s usually smart to keep your insurance active during a license suspension. Even without a car, you may need a non-owner insurance policy to meet court or DMV requirements, especially if you’re required to file an SR-22. Non-owner insurance provides basic liability coverage for those who don’t own a vehicle.
Bottom line: Don’t drop your coverage, keeping it can save you money, protect your record, and help you meet legal obligations.
Can My Car Insurance Be Canceled Because of a Suspended License?
What happens to your existing auto insurance policy if your license gets suspended? The answer can depend on your insurance company and state regulations, but here are the general scenarios:
- Mid-Policy Cancellation: Most states don’t allow insurers to cancel your policy mid-term just for a suspended license. Unless it’s for serious reasons like non-payment or fraud, you’ll likely stay covered until the end of your current policy period.
- At Renewal: When your policy comes up for renewal, your insurer may check your driving record. A suspended license is a red flag and can lead to non-renewal.
- Getting New Insurance: Applying for a new policy with a suspended license is difficult. Most insurers require a valid license, and hiding a suspension can result in cancellation for misrepresentation, sometimes with as little as 10 days’ notice.
Your insurance won’t vanish with a suspended license, but you should notify your insurer. They may let you keep the policy if another licensed driver is listed as the primary driver and you’re excluded. Being upfront helps protect your coverage—hiding a suspension could risk a denied claim.
Will My Insurance Rates Go Up After a License Suspension?
A license suspension is a big red flag to insurance companies, so yes, your car insurance rates will likely increase due to the suspension. Auto insurers categorize drivers with serious violations or suspensions as “high-risk” drivers, which can translate to significantly higher premiums – in fact, you might see your insurance costs nearly double compared to before. The exact impact on your rate depends on a few factors:
- Reason for Suspension: Serious offenses like DUI or reckless driving can raise your rates by 50–100%+ and require high-risk coverage. Administrative issues (e.g., unpaid fines) typically cause smaller increases.
- How Long It Impacts You: Suspensions usually affect your premium for 3–5 years, depending on your state and insurer. Rates may gradually drop if you maintain a clean record afterward.
- SR-22 Requirement: If you need an SR-22, expect a small filing fee (around $25) and fewer insurer options. States like Florida and Virginia may require stricter FR-44 filings with higher coverage limits, increasing costs further.
A suspended license will raise your insurance rates—there’s no way around it. But you can reduce the impact by shopping around (some insurers are more lenient), maintaining continuous coverage, and using available discounts (like a defensive driving course). As you rebuild a clean record, your rates should gradually improve. In the meantime, be prepared for higher premiums.
How Can I Get Car Insurance While My License Is Suspended?
Getting or keeping car insurance with a suspended license is possible—but more difficult.
Most standard insurers avoid covering drivers without a valid license. However, specialized or high-risk insurers can still provide coverage, and many suspended drivers are insured every day. You may need to follow specific steps or meet additional requirements, but it’s doable. Here’s how to get insured during your suspension:
1. Determine if you need an SR-22 or FR-44:
Check your court or DMV notice to see if you’re required to file an SR-22, which your insurer submits to prove you carry the state’s minimum liability coverage. SR-22s are usually required after DUIs, serious offenses, or repeat violations.
In Florida and Virginia, you may need an FR-44, which requires higher coverage limits. Since not all insurers offer these filings, be upfront about your needs to find a company that does.
2. Apply for a Restricted License:
Many states offer restricted licenses for suspended drivers, allowing limited driving (e.g., to work or school). If eligible, this can make insurers more willing to cover you. Requirements often include partial suspension served, proof of insurance, and possibly a course or interlock device. Insurance is required before the license is granted.
3. Use High-Risk or Non-Standard Insurers:
If standard insurers won’t cover you, look for high-risk providers who handle SR-22 filings and suspended licenses. Some may list you as an excluded driver until reinstated.
Rates are higher, so compare quotes and consider using an independent agent to find options.
4. Consider a Non-Owner Policy:
No car? A non-owner policy provides liability coverage and satisfies SR-22 requirements. It’s cheaper than standard insurance and helps you avoid a lapse while staying legally compliant.
5. Keep Coverage Active:
Pay premiums on time and don’t let your policy lapse—SR-22 coverage must stay continuous, often for 3 years. Even if you’re not driving, dropping coverage can lead to penalties or re-suspension.
Tip: List a licensed household member as the primary driver and exclude yourself. This keeps the car insured and legally drivable. Some insurers may require the person to live with you or be on the title. Talk to your agent to see if this option works for you.
Staying insured during your suspension may feel like a hassle, but it helps you avoid legal trouble and prepares you to regain your license smoothly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is an SR-22, and do I need one after a suspended license?
A: An SR-22 is a form your insurer files with the state to prove you carry the required liability coverage. It’s often required after a DUI or serious offense, but not always. You’ll be notified by the court or DMV if it’s needed. It’s not insurance itself, just proof of it. If required, your insurer will file it for a small fee. Tip: Always tell insurers upfront if you need an SR-22 so they quote the right policy.
Q: What is a restricted or hardship license?
A: A restricted license allows limited driving (e.g., work or medical appointments) during a suspension. You’ll need to apply with your state, show proof of insurance, and possibly meet conditions like installing an ignition interlock device. Not all offenses qualify. You must maintain insurance to keep and use this license.
Q: What is a non-owner car insurance policy?
A: Non-owner insurance provides liability coverage for drivers who don’t own a car. It’s ideal if you need to file an SR-22 or avoid a lapse while your license is suspended. It won’t cover vehicle damage but does protect against liability. It’s usually cheaper than regular insurance and helps you stay compliant while not owning a vehicle.
Q: How long do I have to carry an SR-22?
A: Most states require you to keep an SR-22 on file for about 3 years, though this varies by state and offense. If your policy lapses, the clock may reset or your license may be suspended again. Always verify your state’s rule and keep coverage active for the full required term before removing the SR-22.
Q: Will a suspension raise my insurance, and how can I lower the cost?
A: Yes, a suspension usually increases your premium, sometimes significantly. To reduce costs:
- Shop around with high-risk insurers
- Maintain continuous coverage
- Take a defensive driving course
- Consider usage-based insurance
- Adjust your coverage if your vehicle doesn’t need full protection
Over time, as your record improves, your rates should go down.
Get a Quote Today!
By understanding how to manage car insurance with a suspended license, you can stay compliant, protect your finances, and position yourself for a smooth reinstatement. If you have questions about SR-22 filings, non-owner policies, or finding coverage during your suspension, Insure on the Spot is here to help.
Call us at 773-202-5060 for expert, personalized guidance.