Glossary

DUI

Driving while impaired by alcohol or drugs, an offense that brings license penalties, possible SR-22 or FR-44 filings and steep insurance increases.

Also called: driving under the influence, DWI, OUI, OWI, drunk driving

DUI stands for driving under the influence of alcohol, drugs or both. States use different names for the same kind of offense, including DWI (driving while intoxicated or impaired), OUI (operating under the influence) and OWI (operating while intoxicated). Every state makes it illegal for adult drivers to have a blood alcohol concentration of 0.08% or higher, except Utah, which lowered its limit to 0.05%. Limits are lower for commercial drivers and for drivers under 21.

For insurance, a DUI is a major violation, among the most heavily rated items on a driving record. Insurers may surcharge the policy for years, remove discounts or decline to renew, and many convicted drivers end up with a nonstandard auto insurance company. States often require proof of insurance after a DUI conviction or suspension: an SR-22 in most states, or an FR-44 with higher liability limits in Florida and Virginia. Many states also require an ignition interlock device.

How long a DUI affects your rates depends on how long it stays on your driving record and how far back insurers look, both of which vary by state. Shop around after a conviction, since insurers price DUIs very differently, and keep any required filing active without a lapse, because the insurer must report a cancellation to the state.

Last reviewed October 4, 2026

In the index now

Related terms

SR-22 A form an insurer files with the state to certify that a high-risk driver carries the required liability coverage, often for about three years. FR-44 A certificate filed by an insurer in Florida or Virginia proving that a driver convicted of certain DUI offenses carries higher-than-minimum liability limits. Ignition interlock device An in-car breath tester that keeps the engine from starting if it detects alcohol, often required after a DUI conviction. Major violation A serious driving offense, such as DUI, reckless driving or driving with a suspended license, that brings large surcharges and can lead to nonrenewal. High-risk driver A driver insurers expect to cost more in claims because of a DUI, tickets, crashes, a coverage lapse, little experience or similar factors. Nonstandard auto insurance Coverage sold to drivers that standard insurers decline or price steeply, such as those with DUIs, many tickets, lapses or little license history.

Related guides

Car insurance after a DUI What a DUI does to your car insurance: surcharges, possible nonrenewal, SR-22 or FR-44 filings, how long it counts, and how to stay insured. FR-44 insurance in Florida and Virginia FR-44 filings prove higher liability limits after a DUI in Florida (100/300/50 for three years) and Virginia (double the minimums), unlike an SR-22.