Texas DWI: How It Affects Insurance Rates and What You Can Do

Understanding DWI in Texas

Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) in Texas is a serious offense with legal consequences that can ripple into nearly every area of your life—including your wallet. Being arrested and convicted of a DWI doesn’t just mean facing fines, court appearances, and potential jail time. It also means grappling with the long-term financial effects, especially on your car insurance premiums.

Most drivers aren’t prepared for how much their insurance rates can spike after a DWI. In Texas, where DWI laws are strictly enforced, insurance companies view DWI offenders as high-risk drivers. That designation often results in significantly higher premiums, the requirement of SR-22 insurance, and even the possibility of being dropped by your current insurer.

How a Texas DWI Impacts Your Insurance

Once you've been convicted of a DWI Texas, your driving record is updated to reflect the offense, and insurance companies take notice almost immediately. Most insurers perform periodic reviews of your driving record, and a DWI will flag you as a liability. That can double, triple, or even quadruple your monthly insurance premium.

In fact, on average, Texas drivers see their insurance rates increase by as much as 50-100% after a first-time DWI. For repeat offenders, the impact is even more severe. This is because insurance companies use risk-based pricing models, and a DWI shows that you're statistically more likely to be involved in future accidents or violations.

Many drivers in this situation are required to carry SR-22 insurance. This is not an insurance policy itself, but rather a certificate that proves you carry the minimum liability coverage required by the state. Insurers charge fees to file the SR-22, and only certain companies are willing to issue it, narrowing your options and driving prices up even more.

The Financial Reality of a DWI Conviction

It’s easy to focus solely on the legal penalties associated with a DWI, such as court costs, license suspension, and possible jail time. However, the financial aftermath often lasts much longer. After your conviction, you may need to pay:

• DWI fines (which can range from hundreds to thousands of dollars)

• License reinstatement fees

• SR-22 filing fees

• Higher monthly insurance premiums

• Vehicle impound or towing costs

• Legal and attorney fees

All of these costs add up quickly, and when you combine them with increased insurance rates, it becomes clear why a DWI is not just a legal issue—it’s a long-term financial burden. For many drivers, this creates a cycle that’s hard to break out of unless they take proactive steps.

What Happens to Your Insurance Policy After a DWI

Following a DWI conviction, your insurance provider may choose to either raise your rates or cancel your policy entirely. If your provider cancels your policy, you’ll be forced to shop around for new coverage—often under much more expensive terms. And because you’re now considered a high-risk driver, your options may be limited to non-standard insurers who specialize in covering risky drivers.

Some companies may not cancel your policy right away but will hike your premiums at renewal time. This leaves drivers with a tough choice: pay the higher premium or search for a new provider who’s willing to file an SR-22 on their behalf.

Additionally, many insurers will require that you maintain SR-22 coverage for a period of three years following your DWI conviction. During this time, if your insurance lapses for any reason—even if you miss a single payment—your SR-22 status may be revoked, resulting in a suspended license or extended penalties.

Proactive Steps to Lower Your Insurance After a DWI

While a DWI will inevitably impact your insurance costs, there are several positive steps you can take to reduce the financial damage and begin the path toward recovery. The key is to be proactive, patient, and consistent. Here’s what you can do:

1. Shop Around for Insurance
   Don’t settle for the first quote you receive. Every insurer calculates risk differently, and while one may offer sky-high rates, another might be more affordable. Get quotes from multiple providers who are familiar with handling DWI cases.

2. Maintain Continuous Coverage
   One of the worst things you can do after a DWI is allow your insurance to lapse. A lapse not only violates SR-22 requirements but also signals to insurers that you’re unreliable. Even if premiums are high, keeping consistent coverage can help lower your rates over time.

3. Take a Defensive Driving Course
   Some Texas-approved defensive driving or DWI education courses can help demonstrate to insurers that you’re taking responsibility for your actions. Completion of such a course may qualify you for insurance discounts or point reduction on your record.

4. Drive Safely and Stay Violation-Free
   Time is your friend here. The longer you go without additional violations, the better your driving record looks. Safe driving habits can lead to gradual reductions in your premium each year post-conviction.

5. Improve Your Credit Score
   Believe it or not, many insurers in Texas use your credit score as a factor in determining rates. Improving your credit may not offset the DWI entirely, but it can help bring down your overall premium.

6. Install a Telematics Device
   Some insurers offer discounts to drivers who install a telematics device in their vehicle. These devices monitor your driving behavior, and if you consistently demonstrate safe habits, you could earn premium discounts even after a DWI.

Understanding the SR-22 Requirement in Texas

If you’ve been convicted of a DWI in Texas, you’ll likely be required to file an SR-22 form with the Texas Department of Public Safety. This form proves that you carry the state’s minimum required liability insurance.

It’s important to understand that the SR-22 is not something you can file on your own. Your insurance provider must submit it on your behalf, and not all companies are willing to do so. That’s why shopping around for a specialized provider is key.

Once the SR-22 is on file, you’ll be required to maintain it for a minimum of three years. Failure to do so can result in your license being suspended again and your DWI penalties being extended. It’s vital to stay on top of your insurance payments and renewal deadlines during this period.

How Long Will a DWI Affect Your Insurance Rates?

A DWI conviction in Texas stays on your driving record for life, but its impact on your insurance rates will gradually fade. Generally, insurers look back at the last 3 to 5 years of your driving history when determining rates. That means if you maintain a clean driving record after your conviction, you may begin to see rate reductions after three years.

However, some insurers may penalize you for up to seven years, especially if you have multiple offenses. That’s why it’s critical to start the recovery process immediately and demonstrate positive driving behavior as soon as possible.

Rebuilding Trust With Insurers

Rebuilding your relationship with insurance providers after a DWI takes time, but it’s completely possible. Insurers are primarily concerned with risk. The more you can prove that you’re no longer a risky driver, the better your rates will be.

That means paying your premiums on time, avoiding traffic violations, maintaining coverage without lapses, and possibly even writing a letter of explanation if you’re applying for new coverage. Some insurers appreciate transparency and responsibility, which can work in your favor.

Final Thoughts: Turning a Setback Into a Comeback

Getting a DWI in Texas is undoubtedly a setback, but it doesn’t have to define your future. With patience, smart choices, and a proactive approach, you can minimize the financial burden and start rebuilding your driving and insurance reputation.

Remember, your past doesn’t determine your future. Every positive decision you make—from shopping for better rates to taking a driving course—brings you closer to lower premiums and restored financial stability.

To learn more about managing your Texas DWI and insurance options, visit https://www.sr22texas.org/.