Your License is suspended and you are wondering if you can still get car insurance. This guide is for you. People might lose their driver’s license for various reasons, like breaking traffic rules driving without insurance, or while intoxicated. Whatever the reason, insurance companies will likely see you as a riskier driver. And many of them may not want to offer you with coverage.
But don’t worry; some companies are willing to cover you while you sort out getting your license back. However, if you need insurance with a suspended license, be prepared for higher premiums. Read on to know how you can get car insurance with a suspended license. So that you can get back on track.
Reasons why you may have a Suspended License
Suspension of your driver’s license means temporary withdrawal of your right to drive. There are many reasons for a license suspension. And it may vary by state, however below are some of the common ones;
- Driving recklessly
- At fault accidents
- Not paying traffic tickets
- Driving around without auto insurance
- Lapse in car insurance coverage
- Medical conditions such as cognitive decline, epilepsy, consciousness disorders
- Driving while intoxicated or under the influence (DUI, DWI).
The rules of each state and the policies of your current insurance company will determine what you need to do to get your license back and if your insurance rates will go up.
Can you get Car Insurance with a Suspended License?
Just because your license is suspended doesn’t mean you can’t get insurance. However, you might not be allowed to drive. But you’ll probably need insurance for your car to keep it covered. Finding insurance might be tougher, though, and it might cost you more.
How to Get Car Insurance with a Suspended License
Not all insurers will insure a person with a suspended license. And just like I have mentioned above, those who do will likely refer you as a high-risk driver, which can result in a higher premium. In most cases, you will have to purchase coverage with a non-standard auto insurance provider. If you want to purchase car insurance and your driver’s license has been suspended. Below is what you need to do
Apply for a hardship or a restricted license
Lots of insurance companies won’t cover folks with a suspended license, but some might if you have a hardship or restricted license. Rules differ from state to state, so it’s best to contact your local DMV to see if you qualify for one of these licenses.
Get SR-22 or FR-44
An SR-22 also called a certificate of financial responsibility, isn’t insurance itself. It’s a form your insurance company files with your state to show you have the minimum auto liability insurance required.
If your license is suspended, you might need an SR-22. Not all insurers offer it, so you might need to switch to one that does. Similar to an SR-22, some states require an FR-44 form. This shows you have auto insurance with higher liability limits, usually needed for suspensions involving alcohol or drugs.
Shop around
While it’s easy to stick with what you know, the real trick to getting affordable car insurance is to shop around. Different companies view traffic tickets in various ways, so comparing quotes from multiple insurers is key, especially if your license is suspended.
Why do I need Car insurance when my license has been suspended?
Even if your driver’s license is suspended, it’s smart to have car insurance for a few reasons:
- Preventing Coverage Gaps: Keeping insurance avoids higher rates later. Letting it lapse means the insurance will be expensive when you reinstate your license.
- Avoiding Fines: In some states, having an uninsured car, even if not driven, can lead to fines. For example, in Maryland, you could face fines of $150 initially and $7 per day afterward.
- Meeting Loan or Lease Terms: If you’re financing or leasing a vehicle, you might be obligated to keep insurance, regardless of your license status. Otherwise, you might be forced to buy costly insurance.
- Getting a Special License: If you need to drive for work or school, you might qualify for a special license. To get it, you’ll likely need insurance and may need your insurer to file an SR-22 form.
- Protecting Your Car: Even if you’re not driving, your car could still get damaged. Without insurance, you’d have to pay for repairs yourself if, say, it’s hit by a hit-and-run driver or damaged by weather.
However, having car insurance with a suspended license can be expensive and requires a lot of effort. You can get low rates by comparing multiple quotes from different companies.
When comparing quotes ensure you have a good credit score, and a clean driving record, look around for discounts, and adjust your coverage selection. Also, explore telematics programs and adjust your deductibles.