Car Insurance for High-Risk Drivers in Washington, D.C. (2025)
High-risk drivers in Washington, D.C., pay an average of $336 per month for insurance.
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If you have a serious traffic offense on your record, such as driving under the influence (DUI), insurers consider you to be high-risk. You can also fall into this category if you accumulate too many points on your record. If this happens, the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) may suspend or revoke your license.1
High-risk drivers in D.C. face higher car insurance costs than people with clean driving records. For example, high-risk drivers pay an average of $281 per month for liability coverage, while drivers with clean records pay $225 on average.
Who is a high-risk driver in Washington, D.C.?
A high-risk driver has traffic violations, license suspensions, or license revocations on their record. In D.C., the DMV uses a points-based system to keep track of traffic violations, including traffic violations in other states, and impose penalties.3
For example, a speeding ticket for going 11 to 15 mph over the speed limit will cost you two points. Once you reach 10 points, the DMV will suspend your license. If you reach 12 points, it’ll revoke your license. Some infractions, such as DUIs, result in automatic license revocation. Each point stays on your driving record for two years.
Best Washington, D.C., auto insurance companies for high-risk drivers
Shopping around with different insurance companies is the best way to find cheap car insurance. Each company calculates insurance rates differently, and your premium depends on your driving profile and traffic offenses. Here some of the best insurance companies in D.C. for high-risk drivers:
State Farm: Best for cheap rates
The General: Best for very high-risk drivers
USAA: Best for military members
Cheapest car insurance in Washington, D.C., with an at-fault accident
Car accidents are costly, and drivers who have already caused one are more likely to cause another.6 Since you’re more likely than the average driver to cost the insurance company money, it’ll either deny coverage or raise your car insurance rates.
The table below shows the companies with the lowest average rates for liability-only coverage and full coverage if you have an at-fault accident, according to Insurify data:
Cheapest car insurance in Washington, D.C., with a DUI
A DUI is a serious driving violation. In 2022, 44% of D.C. traffic fatalities involved alcohol.7 From an insurance standpoint, insuring a driver with a DUI is also an expensive risk.
Insurify data shows the companies below have some of the lowest rates for drivers with a DUI:
Cheapest auto insurance in Washington, D.C., with a speeding ticket
In 2022, speeding drivers caused 13 people to die in Washington, D.C.8 If your driving history includes speed-related driving infractions, you’ll pay higher car insurance rates.
The table below includes insurers with some of the lowest average prices for liability-only and full-coverage insurance for drivers with a speeding ticket:
How to find cheaper car insurance for high-risk drivers in Washington, D.C.
Finding low car insurance rates is possible, even with traffic violations or suspended driving privileges. These strategies can save you money:9
How to improve your driving record in Washington, D.C.
Driving safely is one of the best ways to pay less for car insurance. These tips can help you improve your driving record:
Buy a safer vehicle. The next time you’re shopping for a car, look for one with safety features like lane assist, proximity sensors, and crash warnings to help you avoid an accident.
Use a telematics app or device. Many larger insurers offer mobile apps or devices that track your driving. These apps and devices provide personalized feedback and tips to improve your driving and may offer a discount, too.
Take a defensive driver education course. These courses teach safer driving habits and skills. Anyone can take a defensive driving course, and many insurers offer an extra discount for completing one.
Washington, D.C., high-risk drivers insurance FAQs
Although you’ll pay higher insurance rates with traffic violations on your driving record, you can find ways to save money. These answers to frequently asked questions may help.
What makes you a high-risk driver in Washington, D.C.?
High-risk drivers have major driving infractions on their driving records, ranging from speeding tickets to DUIs. Depending on the severity of the infractions, you may face a license suspension or revocation.
What is an SR-22, and how do you get one?
An SR-22 is an insurance verification form your insurer files with the Washington, D.C., government that shows you have adequate coverage to meet insurance requirements. It’s usually required if your license is revoked, such as in the case of a DUI.
How do auto insurance companies calculate risk in Washington, D.C.?
Insurance companies consider many factors when assessing a driver’s risk, which affects the cost of different coverage options. These factors include your ZIP code, vehicle information, prior insurance claims, driving record, and more.
What is the cheapest insurance company in Washington, D.C., for high-risk drivers?
CSAA offers the cheapest car insurance coverage on average for high-risk drivers in Washington, D.C., with monthly liability rates of $114.
How much does high-risk auto insurance cost in Washington, D.C.?
High-risk drivers in D.C. pay an average of $281 per month for state-minimum coverage and $391 per month for full coverage.
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