Average Cost of Car Insurance After Drink Driving Ban

Ian Beevis - Clean Green Compare Insurance Expert
Written by  Ian BeevisUpdated  22 July 20252 min read

Table of Contents

If you’ve been banned for drink driving and are now looking to get back on the road, be prepared, car insurance will likely be significantly more expensive. On average, drivers with a drink driving conviction (e.g. DR10) can expect to pay £1,500 to £3,000+ per year, depending on age, vehicle, and provider.

This is often two to three times higher than a standard premium.

Key points

Why Is Insurance So Expensive After a Drink Driving Ban?

Drink driving is considered a high-risk offence by insurers. Even once the ban ends, insurers see you as a greater liability, which is why premiums are so high. Key reasons include:

  • Higher risk of future claims
  • Legal requirement to declare convictions for 5 years
  • Fewer insurers willing to cover convicted drivers, reducing competition
  • Potential need for a specialist or high-risk insurer

What Affects the Cost?

Several factors influence how much you’ll pay post-ban:

  • Length of the ban and the specific conviction code (e.g. DR10, DR20)
  • Time since your disqualification ended
  • Your age and driving history
  • Type of car you’re insuring (performance cars may cost more)
  • Level of cover (comprehensive vs third party)
Get a Average Cost of Car Insurance After Drink Driving Ban quote

How to Lower the Cost of Insurance After a Ban

It won’t be cheap, but there are ways to reduce the cost:

  • Compare specialist insurance providers that cater to convicted drivers
  • Choose a lower-risk car in a lower insurance group
  • Limit your mileage if possible
  • Take a rehabilitation or drink driving awareness course (if applicable)
  • Add a named experienced driver to the policy
  • Opt for a higher voluntary excess, if you can afford it

You can compare convicted driver insurance quotes to see which providers are more affordable and offer flexible cover.

How long will a drink driving conviction affect my insurance?

Most insurers ask about convictions within the last 5 years. Some may ask for longer depending on your history.

Can I drive while waiting for my licence to be returned?

No. You must have your licence reinstated and meet any medical or DVLA requirements first.

Will I need specialist insurance?

In many cases, yes, standard insurers may refuse cover, so you’ll likely need a policy from a provider that covers high-risk drivers.

Is third party insurance cheaper after a ban?

Not always. Some comprehensive policies can actually be cheaper, especially from specialist providers.

In Summary

  • Car insurance after a drink driving ban averages £1,500 to £3,000+ per year

  • Your premium depends on your age, conviction, and how long ago your ban ended

  • Specialist insurers are often your best option post-ban

  • Comparing quotes and choosing a low-risk car can help reduce costs

Got a recent conviction? Compare Car Insurance Quotes

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