What's the Difference Between DUI and DWI?
- In some states, a DWI is worse than a DUI; in others, they are used interchangeably.
- A DUI or DWI charge will raise insurance rates by 93%.
Insurance may be harder to find after a DUI/DWI—but you're not out of options. Enter your ZIP code and let The Zebra help you find coverage that fits your needs and budget.
DUI vs DWI:Â Different names, same insurance impact
When it comes to auto insurance, there is little to no difference between a DUI and a DWI. While the terminology varies by state — some distinguishing between the two and others using them interchangeably — insurers generally treat both as equally serious violations. Either charge typically results in significant premium increases, potential policy cancellation, and classification as a high-risk driver.
DUI: Driving Under the Influence
A DUI is issued when someone drives under the influence of drugs or alcohol. While the federal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit is 0.08%, some states set lower thresholds—especially for underage drivers, with limits as low as 0.01%.
DWI: Driving While Intoxicated
Some states use DWI interchangeably with DUI, covering both alcohol and drug impairment. In others, DWI typically refers to drug-related impairment, while DUI may include both alcohol and drugs.
- A DWI is often the more severe offense, usually indicating a higher level of intoxication or drug involvement.
- A DUI may be considered a lesser charge, particularly if the driver’s BAC is below 0.08% or if it’s a first offense.
- Some states allow a DWI to be reduced to a DUI under specific circumstances, but criteria vary by jurisdiction.
Do DUIs and DWIs raise insurance rates?
According to The Zebra's proprietary Dynamic Insurance Rating Tool, a DUI or DWI conviction could increase your rates by 93%.[1]
As insurers reevaluate your risk, a DUI or DWI violation can cost you thousands of dollars over three or more years. This can make it very challenging to find cheap car insurance after the incident.Â
Check out the average rates from top companies below, with and without a DUI charge.
Updating data...
| Company | No DUI | After a DUI | $ difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Allstate | $1,484 | $2,189 | $705 |
| Farmers | $1,202 | $1,742 | $540 |
| GEICO | $949 | $1,973 | $1,023 |
| Nationwide | $1,070 | $2,628 | $1,558 |
| Progressive | $1,076 | $1,388 | $312 |
| State Farm | $1,178 | $1,903 | $725 |
| USAA | $831 | $1,557 | $726 |
Source: The Zebra
The Zebra’s Dynamic Insurance Rating Tool data methodology
The Zebra’s Dynamic Insurance Rating Tool for home and auto insurance rates utilizes the latest ZIP code-level rate filings from across the U.S., sourced from Quadrant Information Services and S&P Global. These filings, typically updated annually or biennially by insurers, are verified through Quadrant’s QA process and then integrated into The Zebra’s estimator.
The displayed rates are based on a dynamic home and auto profile designed to reflect the content of the page. This profile is tailored to match specific factors such as age, location, and coverage level, which are adjusted based on the page content to show how these variables can impact premiums.
For a comprehensive understanding, see our detailed methodology.
Based on The Zebra's database of insurance rates, the most affordable car insurance company after a DUI is Progressive. Of course, you should gather personalized quotes to see which company is cheapest for you given the uniqueness of individual driver profiles. Use the form below to compare rates from many companies at once and find the best coverage for your circumstances.Â
A DUI can raise your rates—but not all insurers treat it the same. Compare quotes with The Zebra.
Other impaired driving terms
In addition to DUI and DWI, other terms related to drunk driving exist, usually varying by state laws. Each of these charges means the driver was exhibiting dangerous behavior while behind the wheel of a vehicle. Remember, a driver can be charged after failing a field sobriety test, even with a BAC below the state's legal limit. Some of the more common acronyms are:
- DWAI: Driving While Ability Impaired— Occurs when a driver's BAC is between .05% and .07% (New York, Colorado) or their driving is impaired by marijuana (Colorado)[2,3]
- DUAC: Driving With an Unlawful Alcohol Concentration— Used in place of a DWI and is charged when BAC equals .08% or more (South Carolina[4])
- OUI: Operating under the influence— often used interchangeably with DUI (Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Wisconsin)
- OWI: Operating while intoxicated— (Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, Wisconsin)Â
- OWVI: Operating While Visibly Impaired— applies to any substance that can impair your ability to drive a motor vehicle (Michigan)[5]
Any of these charges will have significant impacts on your driving record and ability to obtain affordable insurance easily.Â
How a DUI or DWI affects insurance
DUIs mark you as high-risk, so brace for lasting rate hikes — often for at least three years. Your premiums could jump 30% to 100% or more, depending on your insurer and state. Additionally, a DUI disqualifies you from most safe-driver perks. This adds to your long-term cost.
After a serious infraction like a DUI, your insurer may deem you too great a risk to continue covering, and issue either a non-renewal or cancellation.
Next steps: finding insurance after a DUI
Step 1: Shop around for quotes
Compare rates from multiple insurance companies and find the best value after a DUI.
Step 2: Look for specialized insurers
Non standard insurance companies specialize in high-risk clientele and offer policies to drivers with DUIs.
Step 3: Improve your driving record
While it will take some time for your rates to decrease again, avoiding further violations can help balance rates in the future.
How long does a DUI or DWI stay on my insurance record?Â
"It can vary depending on where you live and your insurance company's policies," says The Zebra's own Amber Vigil, "But a DUI or DWI can stay on your driving record and possibly impact your insurance rates for typically around three to five years, or even longer in some cases."
"In many states, if a charge is dismissed and you’re not convicted, it may not appear on your driving record—meaning your insurance rates might not be affected." She continues, "However, this can vary by state and by insurance provider. The best practice is to check with your local DMV and your insurance carrier to get the most accurate information for your specific situation."
In-house experts, on your side.
Contact our team of licensed agents to find the best policy for your needs. Call 1-888-419-3716 to get started.
Find DUI car insurance online.
Frequently asked questions — DUI vs DWI
Data Methodology. The Zebra’s Dynamic Insurance Rating Tool
Penalties for Alcohol or Drug-Related Violations. NY DMV
Colorado Drunk Driving Laws.Colorado Law Summary
SC Laws relative to impaired driving. South Carolina DPS
MCL - Section 257.625. Michigan Legislature
About The Zebra
The Zebra is not an insurance company. We publish data-backed, expert-reviewed resources to help consumers make more informed insurance decisions.
- The Zebra’s insurance content is written and reviewed for accuracy by licensed insurance agents.
- The Zebra’s insurance editorial content is not subject to review or alteration by insurance companies or partners.
- The Zebra’s editorial team operates independently of the company’s partnerships and commercialization interests, publishing unbiased information for consumer benefit.
- The auto insurance rates published on The Zebra’s pages are based on a comprehensive analysis of car insurance pricing data, evaluating more than 83 million insurance rates from across the United States.