Yes, you can technically get car insurance with a suspended license, but it is extremely difficult and will be significantly more expensive. Most major insurance companies will likely deny you a standard policy because you are classified as a high-risk driver. Your primary option will be seeking coverage from non-standard, high-risk auto insurance carriers. Furthermore, if your license was suspended due to a serious violation like a DUI, you will likely be required to file an SR-22 or FR-44 form (a certificate of financial responsibility) with your state's DMV to prove you have the minimum required insurance before your license can be reinstated.
The main challenge is that insurers base premiums on risk. A suspended license signals a history of violations, making you a much higher liability. If you own a car but cannot get insured yourself, you might explore listing a spouse or family member with a clean driving record as the primary driver on the policy. However, you must be listed as an excluded driver; if you are caught driving, the insurance will be invalid, and you could face serious legal penalties. Another option is a non-owner car insurance policy, which provides liability coverage for you when you drive vehicles you don't own. This doesn't cover a car you own, but it can help you maintain continuous insurance coverage, which looks better to insurers once your license is reinstated.
The most critical step is to focus on reinstating your license by fulfilling all court or DMV requirements, such as paying fines or completing courses. Once your license is valid again, you can shop for more standard insurance, though rates may remain elevated for several years.
| Common Reasons for License Suspension | Typical Impact on Insurance Premiums | Common High-Risk Insurers to Consider |
|---|
| DUI / DWI | Increase of 80% to 150% or more | The General, Dairyland, SafeAuto |
| Accumulation of Points (Speeding, etc.) | Increase of 30% to 100% | Infinity, Direct Auto, Baja Auto |
| Driving Without Insurance | Increase of 50% to 100% | Fred Loya, Titan Insurance |
| At-Fault Accidents | Increase of 40% to 80% | National General, Freeway Insurance |
| Failure to Pay Fines or Appear in Court | Increase of 20% to 60% | GAINSCO, Integon |
