Yes, you can get car insurance after your policy has been cancelled, but it will be more difficult and significantly more expensive. Your previous cancellation is a major red flag for insurers, who will view you as a high-risk driver. The key is to understand why your policy was cancelled, as the reason drastically impacts your options. Cancellations for non-payment are common and easier to overcome than cancellations for fraud or a serious license suspension.
Why Insurers Cancel Policies
Insurers can cancel a policy for a variety of reasons, typically within the first 60 days for any reason, and after that for specific causes like non-payment of premiums, misrepresentation on your application, or a major violation such as a DUI that drastically increases your risk profile.
Immediate Steps to Take
Your first move should be to contact your previous insurer. Sometimes, if the cancellation was for a simple oversight like a missed payment, you may be able to reinstate the policy by paying the balance immediately. If reinstatement isn't an option, you must start shopping around.
Finding New Insurance: High-Risk Providers
Standard insurance companies will likely deny your application. You will need to seek out companies that specialize in non-standard or high-risk auto insurance. These insurers provide coverage for drivers with accidents, DUIs, or prior cancellations, but at a much higher cost. You may also be required to purchase a policy from your state’s assigned risk plan, which is a pool of last-resort insurers that states mandate companies participate in to ensure all drivers can get coverage.
| Factor Influencing New Premiums | Estimated Impact on Cost |
|---|
| Reason for Cancellation (e.g., Non-payment vs. DUI) | Increase of 30% to 150% |
| Your Driving Record (Other violations) | Increase of 10% to 50% |
| State of Residence | Varies by regulation and plan |
| Vehicle Type | High-performance cars cost more to insure |
| Coverage Limits Selected | Higher limits = higher premiums |
To improve your chances, be prepared to pay a larger down payment—sometimes up to 50% of the annual premium—and shop around extensively. Maintaining a clean driving record going forward is crucial; after a few years, you can often transition back to a standard insurer.
