January 29, 2025
Auto Insurance
How Does Driving History Affect Car Insurance Rates?
Your driving history directly impacts your car insurance premiums. Insurance companies consider driving records the most crucial factor when determining auto insurance rates.
In the United States, a driver with a clean record typically pays around $175 per month or $2,100 per year for full coverage car insurance. However, a single DUI conviction can increase rates by 85% to 92% or more, meaning you’ll end up paying between $3,885 to $4,032 which is nearly double the cost for a regular policyholder. Even a minor traffic ticket can raise insurance premiums by an average of 21%.
In this article, we'll discuss how violations like speeding tickets, accidents, and DUIs affect car insurance rates. We'll also cover how insurers use the driver’s license point system, review driving history, and set premiums. Plus, you'll learn how to check your driving record, how insurers access it, and ways good drivers can save money.
The Impact of Driving History on Your Car Insurance Premiums
A driver's record significantly influences auto insurance rates, as insurers assess risk based on past behavior. Drivers with a clean driving record typically pay the lowest premiums.
However, even one minor violation can lead to higher costs. A speeding ticket can increase rates by up to 21%, while a single at-fault accident raises premiums by about 43%. In North Carolina, a single speeding ticket can raise the insurance rate by 49%. On the other hand, In New York, drivers face a 6% increase after a speeding ticket as per Bankrate data.
The most severe impact comes from a DUI conviction, which can nearly double your car insurance premium. For example, the average annual full coverage cost for a driver with no violations is about $2,100 to $2,458, but after a DUI, rates can exceed $4,000 in many states. Typically, drivers face an 85% to 92% increase in car insurance costs after a DUI conviction, meaning you might have to pay over $1,900 more each year to maintain full coverage.
In North Carolina, auto insurance rates can increase by about 325% after a DUI conviction. With a clean record, full coverage costs $139 per month; after a DUI, it rises to $591 per month. In Texas, drivers face a 40% increase after a DUI.
Some insurers offer accident forgiveness which reduces penalties for first-time offenders. However, maintaining a clean record and avoiding violations is important to minimizing auto insurance premiums. Comparing rates from multiple insurance companies can also help mitigate costs after an infraction. In the following sections, we'll explore how much car insurance costs on average depending on the type of violation.
Car Insurance Rates by Driving History
Driving History | Average Monthly Costs | Average Annual Costs | Increase Above Clean Record |
Clean Record | $175 | $2,100 | 0% |
One Speeding Ticket | $211 | $2,532 | 21% |
Single At-Fault Accident | $250 | $3,003 | 43% |
DUI Conviction | $336 | $4,032 | 92% |
State-by-State Car Insurance Costs after a DUI Conviction
State | Monthly Cost | Annual Cost | DUI Increase |
Alabama | $311 | $3,732 | 60% |
Alaska | $219 | $2,628 | 55% |
Arizona | $350 | $4,200 | 61% |
Arkansas | $307 | $3,684 | 59% |
California | $477 | $5,724 | 184% |
Colorado | $429 | $5,148 | 78% |
Connecticut | $451 | $5,412 | 132% |
Delaware | $395 | $4,740 | 72% |
Florida | $430 | $5,160 | 58% |
Georgia | $368 | $4,416 | 101% |
Hawaii | $408 | $4,896 | 229% |
Idaho | $219 | $2,628 | 97% |
Illinois | $315 | $3,780 | 76% |
Indiana | $217 | $2,604 | 67% |
Iowa | $283 | $3,396 | 78% |
Kansas | $298 | $3,576 | 70% |
Kentucky | $357 | $4,284 | 80% |
Louisiana | $411 | $4,932 | 65% |
Maine | $197 | $2,364 | 91% |
Maryland | $306 | $3,672 | 80% |
Massachusetts | $252 | $3,024 | 74% |
Michigan | $631 | $7,572 | 140% |
Minnesota | $323 | $3,876 | 90% |
Mississippi | $321 | $3,852 | 96% |
Missouri | $270 | $3,240 | 59% |
Montana | $312 | $3,744 | 69% |
Nebraska | $281 | $3,372 | 75% |
Nevada | $481 | $5,772 | 68% |
New Hampshire | $170 | $2,040 | 59% |
New Jersey | $416 | $4,992 | 109% |
New Mexico | $262 | $3,144 | 54% |
New York | $357 | $4,284 | 88% |
North Carolina | $591 | $7,092 | 325% |
North Dakota | $273 | $3,276 | 73% |
Ohio | $175 | $2,100 | 52% |
Oklahoma | $300 | $3,600 | 50% |
Oregon | $325 | $3,900 | 76% |
Pennsylvania | $279 | $3,348 | 62% |
Rhode Island | $516 | $6,192 | 118% |
South Carolina | $259 | $3,108 | 72% |
South Dakota | $369 | $4,428 | 113% |
Tennessee | $237 | $2,844 | 51% |
Texas | $255 | $3,060 | 40% |
Utah | $325 | $3,900 | 72% |
Vermont | $226 | $2,712 | 111% |
Virginia | $259 | $3,108 | 85% |
Washington | $244 | $2,928 | 53% |
Washington, D.C. | $352 | $4,224 | 78% |
West Virginia | $260 | $3,120 | 74% |
Wisconsin | $216 | $2,592 | 60% |
Wyoming | $221 | $2,652 | 78% |
Source: ValuePenguin
Based on the table the following states have the most expensive car insurance after a DUI conviction:
- North Carolina (325% rate increase after DUI)
- Hawaii (229% rate increase after DUI)
- California (184% rate increase after DUI)
- Michigan (140% rate increase after DUI)
- Connecticut (132% rate increase after DUI)
On average, drivers with a DUI face a 92% increase (based on the table above) in their auto insurance rates. Also, drivers with a DUI are more likely to pay state fees and may be required to carry specialized insurance coverage. Depending on the state you live in, you might also need to file an SR-22 or FR-44, and your license might get suspended after a DUI conviction.
Learn More: How Much Does Car Insurance Go Up After an Accident?
State-by-State Car Insurance Costs After a Speeding Ticket and Accident
State | Original Full Coverage | Cost After Speeding Ticket | Rate Hike Ticket | Cost After Accident | Rate Hike Crash |
North Carolina | $139 | $192 | 38.13% | $244 | 75.54% |
California | $168 | $241 | 43.45% | $332 | 97.62% |
Hawaii | $124 | $146 | 17.74% | $172 | 38.71% |
New Jersey | $199 | $250 | 25.13% | $382 | 91.96% |
Connecticut | $194 | $235 | 21.13% | $316 | 62.89% |
Michigan | $263 | $332 | 26.24% | $359 | 36.50% |
South Dakota | $173 | $211 | 21.97% | $265 | 53.18% |
Vermont | $107 | $127 | 18.69% | $158 | 47.66% |
Rhode Island | $237 | $310 | 30.80% | $305 | 28.69% |
Minnesota | $170 | $215 | 26.47% | $272 | 60.00% |
Maine | $103 | $132 | 28.16% | $161 | 56.31% |
Mississippi | $164 | $200 | 21.95% | $251 | 53.05% |
Idaho | $111 | $132 | 18.92% | $169 | 52.25% |
Virginia | $140 | $173 | 23.57% | $223 | 59.29% |
Maryland | $170 | $213 | 25.29% | $273 | 60.59% |
Georgia | $183 | $214 | 16.94% | $269 | 47.00% |
Colorado | $241 | $310 | 28.63% | $376 | 56.02% |
Kentucky | $198 | $235 | 18.69% | $315 | 59.09% |
Massachusetts | $145 | $187 | 28.97% | $220 | 51.72% |
Illinois | $179 | $230 | 28.49% | $268 | 49.72% |
Oregon | $185 | $233 | 25.95% | $281 | 51.89% |
Texas | $182 | $221 | 21.43% | $337 | 85.16% |
Utah | $189 | $228 | 20.63% | $289 | 52.91% |
Nevada | $286 | $355 | 24.13% | $438 | 53.15% |
Wisconsin | $135 | $170 | 25.93% | $215 | 59.26% |
Nebraska | $161 | $190 | 17.07% | $242 | 50.31% |
Washington DC | $198 | $234 | 18.18% | $286 | 44.44% |
Iowa | $159 | $193 | 21.38% | $223 | 40.25% |
Montana | $185 | $232 | 25.41% | $268 | 44.86% |
Arizona | $218 | $290 | 33.03% | $314 | 43.58% |
South Carolina | $151 | $179 | 18.54% | $220 | 45.70% |
Arkansas | $193 | $247 | 27.98% | $286 | 48.19% |
Indiana | $130 | $154 | 18.46% | $193 | 48.46% |
North Dakota | $158 | $187 | 18.35% | $224 | 41.77% |
Delaware | $230 | $277 | 20.43% | $323 | 40.43% |
Kansas | $175 | $206 | 17.71% | $252 | 43.43% |
New York | $190 | $219 | 15.26% | $243 | 27.89% |
West Virginia | $149 | $171 | 14.77% | $211 | 41.61% |
New Hampshire | $107 | $129 | 20.56% | $161 | 50.47% |
Wyoming | $124 | $153 | 23.39% | $159 | 28.23% |
Louisiana | $249 | $306 | 22.89% | $350 | 40.56% |
Ohio | $115 | $147 | 27.83% | $168 | 46.09% |
Washington | $159 | $200 | 25.79% | $230 | 44.65% |
Florida | $272 | $322 | 18.38% | $396 | 45.59% |
Alabama | $194 | $231 | 19.07% | $275 | 41.75% |
Missouri | $170 | $195 | 14.71% | $249 | 46.47% |
New Mexico | $170 | $211 | 24.12% | $241 | 41.76% |
Tennessee | $157 | $191 | 21.66% | $221 | 40.76% |
Oklahoma | $200 | $241 | 20.50% | $284 | 42.00% |
Alaska | $141 | $169 | 19.86% | $193 | 36.88% |
Pennsylvania | $172 | $208 | 20.93% | $211 | 22.67% |
Source: ValuePenguin
Top 5 States with the Highest Car Insurance Rate Increases After a Traffic Ticket:
- California (43.45% increase compared to a driver with no traffic ticket)
- North Carolina (38.13% increase compared to a driver with no traffic ticket)
- Massachusetts (29% increase compared to a driver with no traffic ticket)
- Colorado (28.63% increase compared to a driver with no traffic ticket)
- Illinois (28.49% increase compared to a driver with no traffic ticket)
Top 5 States with the Highest Car Insurance Rate Increases After an Accident:
- California (97.62% rate increases after crash)
- New Jersey (91.96% rate increases after crash)
- Texas (85.16% rate increases after crash)
- North Carolina (75.54% rate increases after crash)
- Connecticut (62.89% rate increases after crash)
In short, the car insurance rate always increases each year to some extent. In 2025, regular car insurance prices are expected to go up by 7.5%. In circumstances like that it’s very important to maintain a clean driving record so that you don’t end up paying extra money. Regardless of which state you’re residing in, always give the highest priority to safe driving. Safe driving is the most effective strategy of all for keeping your car insurance rate under control.
How Does Your Driving Record Affect Car Insurance Premiums?
Auto insurance companies check your driving record. It’s the key factor in determining car insurance rates. Insurers consider it to assess risk. A clean record signals safe driving and lower chances of filing claims. On the other hand, records with serious accidents, or traffic violations like speeding tickets, or DUIs suggest higher risks. Insurers charge more to offset potential losses.
Driver’s license point system is a major factor in how your record affects car insurance rates. Many states assign points for traffic violations, with each type of infraction carrying a different value. Accumulating points marks you as a higher-risk driver. If you have too many points on your record, you’ll face higher car insurance premiums. Plus, your driver’s license might get suspended.
For example, in Virginia, speeding 1 to 9 miles over the limit adds 3 points to your record. Reckless driving, like failing to stop for a school bus, can add 6 points. In New York, points range from 1-11, depending on severity. Speeding 1 to 10 miles over the limit adds 3 points while texting while driving adds 5 points.
In Michigan, reckless driving, fleeing from police, DUI, or other serious offenses add 6 points. 4 points means you’ll get a warning from the Michigan Secretary of State (SOS), 8 points means another warning letter. If you accumulate 12 points, you’ll be asked to undergo driver reexamination which typically includes vision, knowledge, and road test. Failing the test could lead to license suspension.
California uses a similar system but focuses on the frequency of violations. Minor infractions, like failing to signal, add 1 point, while DUIs or reckless driving add 2 points. North Carolina drivers face an expensive penalty. If they commit some violations such as passing a stopped school bus, it gets them 4 points and significantly raises car insurance costs.
It's worth noting that most states allow points to remain on record for 3 to 5 years though serious offenses like DUIs may stay longer. Insurance companies can get access to these points through your motor vehicle report and adjust your premiums accordingly.
So, Why Do Insurance Companies Use Your Driving Record to Set Rates?
When it comes to car insurance, companies want to ensure you're a safe driver. But what if you're not? You'll still get insurance, but the risk level is higher, and you're more likely to cause accidents or traffic violations that insurers have to cover. The higher the risk, the higher the premium they set to balance things out.
To evaluate the level of risk you pose as a driver, insurance companies use your driving record. A clean record means you’re a safe driver and less likely to file a claim. This lowers the insurer’s financial risks and results in lower premiums for you. On the other hand, a history of violations or accidents indicates a higher possibility of future claims.
Driving records also help insurers categorize you as a driver into risk groups. Preferred drivers, with no violations, enjoy lower premiums. However, standard or non-standard drivers with infractions or claims, pay more.
How Do I Check My Driving Record Before I Get a Car Insurance Quote?
Before obtaining an auto insurance rate from your desired provider, it's wise to review your driving records. You can check them through your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV). Most states allow you to request a copy online. To access your record, you'll often need to provide personal details, such as your driver’s license number, and pay a small fee.
In states like California, Texas, and Maryland, you can access a basic driving record for free, although official copies may require a fee. For example, Washington charges $15 for an online record request. Whether you're purchasing auto insurance or updating your car insurance coverage, checking your record helps you be aware of any violations or points that could affect your insurance rates.
How Do Insurance Companies Get Access to My Driving History?
Insurance companies can see your driving history through your Motor Vehicle Report (MVR). Each state’s DMV or BMV maintains this report for every driver. When you apply for auto insurance, you sign an agreement that allows insurers to review your record.
The MVR contains details about accidents, traffic tickets, and violations from the past 3 to 5 years. If you have committed serious offenses like DUIs, this may stay on record even longer than 5 years. Some insurers also use their own point system to evaluate your risks.
How Good Drivers Can Save Money on Car Insurance?
Good drivers can qualify for lower rates due to their safe driving habits. Here’s how they can save more:
- Ask for a Good Driver Discount: Many insurance companies offer discounts to drivers with no accidents or violations in the past three years.
- Enroll in Usage-Based Insurance (UBI): Look for insurance companies that offer UBI programs. It’s a type of auto policy where your insurance rate is determined by how and how much you drive.
- Take a Defensive Driving Course: Some insurers reduce premiums for completing approved defensive driving courses. Discounts often range from 5% to 20%.
- Bundle Policies: Combine auto insurance with other policies such as renter’s, motorcycle insurance, or commercial vehicle insurance to save money.
- Shop Around for Rates: Even with a clean record, premiums vary between insurers. So, compare quotes to find the best rates.
Affordable Car Insurance Options for High-Risk Drivers by L.A. Insurance
If you’re looking for the cheapest car insurance for bad drivers, visit L.A. Insurance whether online or physically. We’ve designed affordable full coverage auto insurance for high-risk drivers. No matter the type of infractions you have on your record, speeding tickets, accidents, or DUIs, we have over 33 years of experience in providing cheap car insurance. We’re now so far the most affordable insurance agency serving over 10 million happy customers nationwide.
Dial us at (800) 893-9393 or find an agent here to talk about how we can help find the best car insurance at the cheapest rate even if you’re a bad driver! You can also get your auto insurance quote online and receive instant proof of insurance once you pay for your coverage.
Auto Insurance Rate by Driving History: The Bottom Line
Your driving history significantly affects your auto insurance costs. If you’re a good and responsible driver, you will enjoy the lowest rate. In contrast, if you’re a bad driver with traffic violations such as at-fault accidents, speeding tickets, DUIs, or SR-22, you probably will end up paying double that of a regular driver.
Drivers with a clean record pay less than the national average of $2,100 for full-coverage auto insurance. However, a single accident on your record can increase this rate by 21% on average.
Insurance companies typically assess risks using your Motor Vehicle Report, claims history, and the driver’s license point system. Points from violations like speeding or reckless driving signal higher risk, which ultimately results in higher premiums.
Good drivers can save through discounts, usage-based insurance, or bundling policies. Bad drivers also have the option to lower costs by comparing quotes, improving driving habits, being extra cautious at nighttime driving, and completing safety courses.
Read more about car insurance costs in our articles:
- How much is car insurance?
- How much is car insurance by age?
- The average car insurance costs by gender
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
# Can Your Driving Record be Checked by Your Insurance Company?
Yes, insurance companies can check your driving record. They access it through your Motor Vehicle Report (MVR). When you apply for insurance, you permit them to review your history of violations and accidents by accepting the terms and conditions.
# Is It Fair That People With Bad Driving Records Pay More For Car Insurance?
Yes, it’s fair because insurance companies look at risk. Drivers with poor records are more likely to make claims. Higher premiums help cover the greater financial risk they pose to the insurers, which makes rates fairer for safer drivers.
# How a Speeding Ticket Affects Your Insurance Rate?
A single speeding ticket can raise your insurance rates by 21% to 27%. If your current full coverage costs $2,100, after a speeding ticket, you'll pay between $2,520 and $2,667, which is an extra $420 to $567.
# How Much Do I Have to Pay for Car Insurance in Michigan If I’m Caught Speeding?
In Michigan, after a speeding ticket, full coverage car insurance costs $332 per month or $3,984 annually. This is 26.25% higher than the original rate of $263 per month. So, a single incident can significantly increase your insurance expenses.
# How Long Do Violations Saty on Your Driving Record?
Violations typically stay on your driving record for three to five years, depending on the state. Serious offenses, like DUIs, may remain longer or permanently. Some states allow points to expire earlier with safe driving or completed driving courses.
# How Serious Violations Like DUIs Impact Car Insurance Costs?
DUIs notably increase insurance costs often by 85% to 92% on average. Drivers with a DUI pay over $4,000 annually for full coverage auto insurance. This is because driving under the influence is a serious offense and is considered high-risk due to the likelihood of future claims. This leads to substantially higher premiums and stricter policy requirements.
# How Much Is Minimum and Full Coverage Costs After a Speeding Ticket?
According to NerdWallet, the average annual cost for full coverage after a speeding ticket is $2,693. For minimum coverage, it’s $868. Minimum coverage is cheaper because it only provides basic protection, while full coverage includes comprehensive and collision insurance for more extensive protection.
References:
- Timmons, M. (2025, January 8). Average cost of car insurance (2025). ValuePenguin. https://www.valuepenguin.com/average-cost-of-insuranceMartin, S. (2025, January 17). Average cost of car insurance in January 2025. Bankrate. https://www.bankrate.com/insurance/car/average-cost-of-car-insurance/#car-insurance-cost-by-driving-record
- Martin, S. (2024, October 23). Rate hike hotspots: 5 states where fighting a speeding ticket matters most. Bankrate. https://www.bankrate.com/insurance/car/speeding-ticket-funding-driving-up-insurance-costs/
- Timmons, M. (2025, January 6). State of auto insurance in 2025. ValuePenguin. https://www.valuepenguin.com/state-of-auto-insurance-2025
- Gula, D. (2024, May 24). How a speeding ticket affects your insurance. NerdWallet. https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/insurance/auto-insurance-rates-after-speeding-ticket
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How Does Driving History Affect Car Insurance Rates?
Your driving history directly impacts your car insurance premiums. Insurance companies consider driving records the most crucial factor when determining auto insurance rates.
In the United States, a driver with a clean record typically pays around $175 per month or $2,100 per year for full coverage car insurance. However, a single DUI conviction can increase rates by 85% to 92% or more, meaning you’ll end up paying between $3,885 to $4,032 which is nearly double the cost for a regular policyholder. Even a minor traffic ticket can raise insurance premiums by an average of 21%.
In this article, we'll discuss how violations like speeding tickets, accidents, and DUIs affect car insurance rates. We'll also cover how insurers use the driver’s license point system, review driving history, and set premiums. Plus, you'll learn how to check your driving record, how insurers access it, and ways good drivers can save money
Average Car Insurance Rate by Gender
Car insurance costs vary quite considerably by gender, especially for younger drivers. This gender-based pricing may not seem fair but insurance company justifies it based on risk factors. Studies reveal young male drivers typically pay higher premiums due to higher risk factors. However, recent studies also show women pay more in certain states. For example: in Florida, women pay $199 more annually than men.
How Much Is Car Insurance by Age?
Did you know that if you’re a young teen or have just become an adult and drive a car, you’re likely to pay around two times higher than the average car insurance rate? However, if you live in Hawaii or Massachusetts, you won’t face this issue, as these states ban the use of age as a factor for setting insurance rates.
How Much Is Car Insurance?
Everyone in the U.S.A. wants to get the cheapest car insurance quote. However, getting an affordable car insurance rate is nearly impossible if you don’t compare rates for both full coverage and minimum coverage policies. Before you compare rates, you need to know how much car insurance costs and the factors that influence the rates.
The cost of auto insurance varies for each person. This variation depends on factors like driving history, location, age, type of vehicle, credit score, annual mileage, marital status, and so forth. For example, the average cost in Michigan is $133 per month for minimum liability insurance and $263 per month for full coverage.
Does Full Coverage Car Insurance Cover Towing?
Just think of that helpless situation when your car breaks down in the middle of nowhere. You’re stranded, frustrated, and unsure who to call. Tow truck services can be costly, especially if you don’t have the right auto insurance coverage. Many drivers also assume that their full coverage insurance automatically includes towing services, but that’s not always true. Yet if your car breaks down you might wonder “Does full coverage car insurance cover towing?”.
How Much is Dirt Bike Insurance?
Riding a dirt bike is fun, and exhilarating. But as these motorbikes are built for off-roads, they are relatively riskier to ride, especially if you don’t take necessary precautions. There can be slippery slopes, potholes, or bumps which can turn exciting rides into a dangerous accident.
Whether you ride through forests, or climb up mountain trails, there is always a high risk of getting into an accident which can lead to serious bodily injuries, or even death. It can also leave your bike badly damaged and sometimes beyond repair.
