Convicted Driver Guide

Insurance for Convicted DriversGet Cover After Convictions

Got a driving conviction? You can still get car insurance. Learn about specialist insurers, cost reduction strategies, and how to get back on the road legally.

4.6/5 Specialist Rating
High-Risk Specialists

Key Facts

Insurance available - Specialists cater to convicted drivers

Higher costs - Expect increased premiums initially

Improving situation - Costs reduce as convictions age

Types of Convictions

How different conviction types affect your insurance premiums

Minor Traffic Offences

Speeding, mobile phone use, careless driving

10-50% premium increase

Common examples:

  • SP30 (Speeding)
  • CU80 (Mobile phone)
  • CD10 (Careless driving)
Serious Driving Offences

Drink/drug driving, dangerous driving, racing

100-300% premium increase

Common examples:

  • DR10 (Drink driving)
  • DG10 (Drug driving)
  • DD40 (Dangerous driving)
Insurance/License Offences

No insurance, driving without license, disqualification

50-200% premium increase

Common examples:

  • IN10 (No insurance)
  • LC20 (No license)
  • BA10 (Disqualification)
Non-Motoring Convictions

Theft, fraud, violence, criminal damage

20-100% premium increase

Common examples:

  • Theft
  • Fraud
  • Assault
  • Criminal damage

How Conviction Age Affects Premiums

The impact of convictions decreases over time

1

0-12 months

Premium Impact

Maximum premium impact

Description

Recent convictions have the highest effect on premiums

Market Access

Limited options, specialist insurers needed

2

1-2 years

Premium Impact

High premium impact

Description

Still significant effect but more options available

Market Access

More mainstream insurers willing to quote

3

2-3 years

Premium Impact

Moderate premium impact

Description

Premiums start to reduce as conviction ages

Market Access

Most insurers will provide quotes

4

3-5 years

Premium Impact

Reducing premium impact

Description

Effect diminishes significantly over time

Market Access

Nearly full market access

5

5+ years

Premium Impact

Minimal/no impact

Description

Most convictions no longer affect premiums

Market Access

Full market access restored

How to Reduce Your Premiums

Strategies to minimize the cost impact of your convictions

Shop Around Extensively

Get quotes from specialists, comparison sites, and direct insurers

20-40%

Increase Your Excess

Higher voluntary excess reduces premium but increases claim costs

10-25%

Choose Lower Insurance Group

Smaller, less powerful cars cost less to insure

15-35%

Advanced Driving Course

Pass Plus or IAM courses can earn discounts with some insurers

5-15%

Types of Insurers

Understanding your options in the insurance market

Mainstream Insurers
Standard insurers who may accept drivers with minor convictions

Pros:

  • Lower premiums for accepted risks
  • Standard policy features
  • Established brands

Cons:

  • Often decline convicted drivers
  • Limited flexibility
  • Strict acceptance criteria

Best for: Drivers with minor/older convictions

Specialist Convicted Driver Insurers
Insurers specifically designed for drivers with convictions and difficult histories

Pros:

  • Accept high-risk drivers
  • Understand your situation
  • Flexible approach

Cons:

  • Higher premiums
  • May have restrictions
  • Limited additional services

Best for: Recent or serious convictions

Non-Standard Insurers
Mid-market insurers who bridge the gap between mainstream and specialist

Pros:

  • More flexible than mainstream
  • Better rates than specialists
  • Growing market

Cons:

  • Limited options
  • Variable service quality
  • Not all offer convicted driver cover

Best for: Moderate convictions, improving drivers

Application Process Tips

How to successfully apply for insurance with convictions

1

Gather All Documentation

Collect conviction details, court documents, and driving license information

2

Be Completely Honest

Declare all convictions accurately - insurers will verify through databases

3

Use Multiple Channels

Try comparison sites, direct insurers, brokers, and specialist companies

4

Consider Payment Terms

Monthly payments may be available even if annual payment is expensive

5

Review Policy Terms

Check for restrictions on driving times, passengers, or vehicle use

6

Plan for Renewal

Shop around at renewal - your situation improves as convictions age

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about insurance for convicted drivers

What convictions affect car insurance?
How long do I need to declare convictions?
Do I need a specialist insurer?
How much will my premium increase?
How can I reduce my insurance costs with convictions?
What happens if I don't declare a conviction?

Get Back on the Road Legally

Don't let convictions stop you driving. Get quotes from specialist insurers who understand your situation.