DWI Car Insurance in North Carolina: Costs, Laws, and Cheapest Companies (2026)
Drivers in North Carolina with a DWI pay an average of $174 per month for liability-only car insurance.
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Writer: Katie PowersLicensed P&C Agent, Senior Insurance Editor
Writer: Katie PowersLicensed P&C Agent, Senior Insurance Editor
Qualifications:
Licensed auto and home insurance agent
4+ years experience in insurance and personal finance editing
NPN: 20564519
Katie uses her knowledge and expertise as a licensed property and casualty agent in Massachusetts to help readers understand the complexities of insurance shopping.
Editor: Katie PowersLicensed P&C Agent, Senior Insurance Editor
Editor: Katie PowersLicensed P&C Agent, Senior Insurance Editor
Qualifications:
Licensed auto and home insurance agent
4+ years experience in insurance and personal finance editing
NPN: 20564519
Katie uses her knowledge and expertise as a licensed property and casualty agent in Massachusetts to help readers understand the complexities of insurance shopping.
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Reviewer: David MarlettAdvisor
Reviewer: David MarlettAdvisor
Qualifications:
25 years teaching risk management and insurance course
Former commercial lines underwriter
David is the managing director of the Brantley Risk and Insurance Center. He has been quoted by The New York Times and CNN.
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Why you can trust Insurify: Comparing accurate insurance quotes should never put you at risk of spam. We earn an agent commission only if you buy a policy based on our quotes. Our editorial team follows a rigorous set of editorial standards and operates independently from our insurance partners. Learn more.
Quick Facts
On average, North Carolina drivers pay $285 per month for full-coverage insurance after a DWI.
Erie is the cheapest insurer for North Carolina drivers with a DWI on their records, with liability policies averaging $108 per month.
A DWI will affect your car insurance rates for five years in North Carolina.[1]
Cheapest car insurance quotes after a DWI in North Carolina
North Carolina drivers with a driving while intoxicated (DWI) conviction on their records pay a monthly average of $174 for liability coverage, while a full-coverage policy averages $285 per month.
Erie is currently the cheapest insurer in North Carolina for liability coverage after a DWI, with an average monthly premium of $108.
The table below shows the cheapest auto insurance rates after a DWI in North Carolina:
The below rates in North Carolina are estimated rates current as of: Wednesday, September 30 at 5:00 PM PDT.
Insurance Company | Average Monthly Quote: Liability Only |
|---|---|
| Erie | $108 |
| GEICO | $129 |
| Direct Auto | $130 |
| Liberty Mutual | $132 |
| National General | $132 |
| Travelers | $136 |
| Dairyland | $152 |
| Safeco | $153 |
| Progressive | $159 |
| Allstate | $161 |
| State Farm | $178 |
Disclaimer: Table data sourced from real-time North Carolina car insurance quotes from Insurify's 500+ partner insurance providers and quote estimates from Quadrant Information Services. Actual car insurance quotes in North Carolina may vary based on the policy buyer's unique driver profile.
Find Cheap DWI Insurance in North Carolina
Liability policies average $174 per month
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How a DWI affects car insurance rates in North Carolina
North Carolina is among the worst states for deaths caused by drunk drivers, according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.[2] Unsurprisingly, North Carolina drivers with DWIs pay significantly higher rates for coverage.
Nationally, rates increase by about 44% after a DWI, according to Insurify data. But in North Carolina, premiums increase by an average of 168%. How much your rates increase depends on several factors:
Age: In North Carolina, drivers younger than 21 who receive a DWI receive fewer points on their driving records than older drivers, so they may experience lower rate increases.[3]
Driving record: Other driving infractions, such as speeding tickets or at-fault accidents, can cause steeper rates.
Coverage level: Your selected coverage amount and what types of auto insurance you include on your policy will also affect your rates.
The table below shows how rates increase in North Carolina after a DWI based on a driver’s profile.
The below rates in North Carolina are estimated rates current as of: Wednesday, September 30 at 5:00 PM PDT.
Rates by Driver Profile
Insurance Company | With DWI | Without DWI |
|---|---|---|
| State Farm | $26 | $17 |
| Auto-Owners | $31 | $24 |
| State Farm | $34 | $25 |
| USAA | $34 | $25 |
| USAA | $35 | $26 |
| State Farm | $37 | $25 |
| Auto-Owners | $38 | $30 |
| State Farm | $39 | $29 |
| USAA | $39 | $29 |
| Auto-Owners | $40 | $30 |
| State Farm | $40 | $30 |
| American Family | $43 | $33 |
| State Farm | $44 | $32 |
| State Farm | $46 | $33 |
| Auto-Owners | $47 | $34 |
| USAA | $48 | $35 |
| State Farm | $49 | $34 |
| State Farm | $50 | $35 |
| Certainly | $50 | $40 |
| State Farm | $51 | $35 |
| State Farm | $51 | $35 |
| Mile Auto | $52 | $36 |
| USAA | $52 | $38 |
| State Farm | $52 | $39 |
| State Farm | $53 | $39 |
| Erie | $54 | $40 |
| Mile Auto | $54 | $37 |
| Auto-Owners | $55 | $41 |
| USAA | $55 | $36 |
| State Farm | $55 | $39 |
| GEICO | $55 | $41 |
| USAA | $55 | $38 |
| American Family | $55 | $43 |
| Sun Coast | $56 | $37 |
| National General | $56 | $40 |
| Auto-Owners | $56 | $41 |
| Auto-Owners | $57 | $40 |
| Auto-Owners | $57 | $41 |
| First Chicago | $58 | $46 |
| Farmers | $59 | $44 |
| Erie | $59 | $41 |
| Auto-Owners | $59 | $44 |
| State Farm | $59 | $39 |
| Progressive | $60 | $41 |
| USAA | $60 | $43 |
| GEICO | $60 | $44 |
| Direct Auto | $60 | $41 |
| USAA | $60 | $41 |
| Progressive | $60 | $40 |
| State Farm | $60 | $45 |
| Farmers | $60 | $43 |
| Auto-Owners | $60 | $45 |
| USAA | $61 | $42 |
| Progressive | $61 | $41 |
| Progressive | $61 | $44 |
| GEICO | $62 | $42 |
| State Farm | $62 | $44 |
| USAA | $62 | $44 |
| USAA | $62 | $42 |
| First Chicago | $62 | $42 |
| Progressive | $63 | $43 |
| Progressive | $63 | $41 |
| USAA | $63 | $47 |
| USAA | $63 | $46 |
| GEICO | $63 | $46 |
| American Family | $63 | $47 |
| Allstate | $64 | $46 |
| Progressive | $64 | $51 |
| Commonwealth Casualty | $65 | $45 |
| Certainly | $65 | $43 |
| Progressive | $65 | $48 |
| State Farm | $65 | $46 |
| State Farm | $65 | $45 |
| GEICO | $66 | $44 |
| USAA | $66 | $49 |
| Country Financial | $66 | $48 |
| Auto-Owners | $66 | $47 |
| USAA | $66 | $46 |
| Auto-Owners | $67 | $49 |
| USAA | $67 | $50 |
| Chubb | $67 | $50 |
| AssuranceAmerica | $67 | $46 |
| State Farm | $68 | $48 |
| Progressive | $68 | $54 |
| Progressive | $68 | $52 |
| GEICO | $68 | $47 |
| National General | $68 | $47 |
| Country Financial | $69 | $52 |
| The General | $69 | $49 |
| USAA | $69 | $49 |
| Travelers | $69 | $47 |
| Just Pay-Per-Mile | $69 | $49 |
| Allstate | $69 | $46 |
| Progressive | $69 | $51 |
| National General | $69 | $51 |
| Progressive | $70 | $56 |
| State Farm | $71 | $52 |
| American Family | $71 | $51 |
| National General | $71 | $48 |
| American Family | $71 | $50 |
| The General | $71 | $50 |
| Direct Auto | $72 | $51 |
| Farmers | $72 | $53 |
| State Farm | $72 | $53 |
| Auto-Owners | $72 | $56 |
| GEICO | $73 | $49 |
| Erie | $73 | $48 |
| USAA | $73 | $48 |
| Allstate | $73 | $58 |
| Progressive | $73 | $59 |
| The General | $74 | $51 |
| Plymouth Rock | $74 | $46 |
| Allstate | $74 | $60 |
| GEICO | $74 | $50 |
| American Family | $74 | $53 |
| State Farm | $74 | $56 |
| GEICO | $75 | $54 |
| USAA | $75 | $53 |
| Erie | $75 | $51 |
| Safeco | $75 | $47 |
| Excepsure | $75 | $54 |
| GEICO | $75 | $49 |
| State Farm | $76 | $55 |
| Direct Auto | $76 | $52 |
| Progressive | $76 | $61 |
| American Family | $76 | $57 |
| State Auto | $76 | $58 |
| GAINSCO | $76 | $55 |
| American Family | $76 | $57 |
| State Farm | $76 | $52 |
| GAINSCO | $77 | $57 |
| State Farm | $77 | $50 |
| State Farm | $77 | $52 |
| Certainly | $77 | $53 |
| American Family | $77 | $57 |
| State Farm | $77 | $57 |
| Allstate | $77 | $52 |
| National General | $77 | $51 |
| State Farm | $77 | $51 |
| State Farm | $78 | $55 |
| The General | $78 | $60 |
| Auto-Owners | $78 | $61 |
| Auto-Owners | $78 | $60 |
| Farmers | $78 | $58 |
| National General | $78 | $56 |
| Allstate | $79 | $54 |
| AssuranceAmerica | $79 | $56 |
| Direct Auto | $79 | $59 |
| Sun Coast | $80 | $52 |
| Allstate | $80 | $61 |
| Trexis | $80 | $53 |
| Bristol West | $80 | $54 |
| GAINSCO | $80 | $54 |
| Trexis | $80 | $55 |
| First Acceptance | $80 | $58 |
| Progressive | $80 | $58 |
| National General | $81 | $58 |
| Farmers | $81 | $59 |
| Progressive | $81 | $61 |
| State Farm | $81 | $58 |
| Direct Auto | $81 | $61 |
| Progressive | $81 | $63 |
| National General | $81 | $55 |
| GEICO | $81 | $58 |
| Auto-Owners | $81 | $59 |
| Safeco | $82 | $55 |
| Direct Auto | $82 | $60 |
| Direct Auto | $82 | $54 |
| Progressive | $82 | $63 |
| National General | $82 | $57 |
| The General | $82 | $63 |
| USAA | $82 | $59 |
| Progressive | $82 | $54 |
| Trexis | $83 | $57 |
| Root | $83 | $56 |
| GEICO | $83 | $57 |
| Auto-Owners | $83 | $62 |
| The General | $84 | $61 |
| The General | $84 | $58 |
| Sun Coast | $84 | $68 |
| The General | $84 | $59 |
| Bristol West | $84 | $63 |
| Travelers | $84 | $60 |
| The General | $85 | $65 |
| The General | $85 | $62 |
| Sun Coast | $85 | $61 |
| GAINSCO | $85 | $58 |
| Mile Auto | $85 | $60 |
| State Farm | $85 | $60 |
| Root | $85 | $61 |
| Dairyland | $85 | $64 |
| Safeco | $85 | $51 |
| USAA | $86 | $63 |
| GEICO | $86 | $62 |
| Allstate | $86 | $66 |
| National General | $86 | $63 |
| First Acceptance | $86 | $58 |
| AssuranceAmerica | $86 | $60 |
| Safeco | $86 | $53 |
| GEICO | $87 | $61 |
| National General | $87 | $65 |
| Safeco | $87 | $58 |
| Progressive | $87 | $62 |
| Mercury | $87 | $61 |
| Bristol West | $87 | $59 |
| Farmers | $87 | $59 |
| AssuranceAmerica | $87 | $60 |
| USAA | $88 | $66 |
| USAA | $88 | $63 |
| Liberty Mutual | $88 | $58 |
| National General | $88 | $66 |
| Bristol West | $88 | $66 |
| Sun Coast | $89 | $63 |
| Mile Auto | $89 | $67 |
| Allstate | $89 | $71 |
| Mile Auto | $89 | $63 |
| The General | $89 | $65 |
| State Farm | $89 | $67 |
| Country Financial | $89 | $63 |
| Erie | $90 | $59 |
| Liberty Mutual | $90 | $59 |
| Direct Auto | $90 | $66 |
| First Acceptance | $90 | $62 |
| Trexis One | $90 | $62 |
| Root | $90 | $64 |
| USAA | $90 | $66 |
| Trexis | $90 | $65 |
| Certainly | $90 | $61 |
| Progressive | $90 | $56 |
| Root | $90 | $66 |
| Progressive | $90 | $64 |
| Trexis One | $90 | $60 |
| Allstate | $90 | $67 |
| The General | $91 | $64 |
| Progressive | $91 | $65 |
| National General | $91 | $62 |
| Progressive | $91 | $74 |
| National General | $91 | $60 |
| Direct Auto | $91 | $68 |
| National General | $91 | $68 |
| Dairyland | $91 | $68 |
| National General | $91 | $68 |
| Hugo | $91 | $63 |
| Allstate | $92 | $60 |
| Root | $92 | $63 |
| Auto-Owners | $92 | $63 |
| Safeco | $92 | $55 |
| Trexis | $92 | $62 |
| Safeco | $92 | $57 |
| USAA | $92 | $66 |
| Allstate | $93 | $71 |
| Bristol West | $93 | $68 |
| Travelers | $93 | $68 |
| Direct Auto | $93 | $64 |
| GEICO | $93 | $66 |
| Aspire General | $93 | $68 |
| USAA | $93 | $63 |
| Dairyland | $93 | $64 |
| GAINSCO | $93 | $64 |
| Safeco | $93 | $58 |
| Allstate | $93 | $58 |
| Hugo | $94 | $63 |
| GEICO | $94 | $66 |
| Allstate | $94 | $68 |
| Bristol West | $94 | $70 |
| Liberty Mutual | $94 | $70 |
| Direct Auto | $94 | $68 |
| USAA | $94 | $71 |
| Progressive | $95 | $64 |
| Allstate | $95 | $62 |
| GAINSCO | $95 | $66 |
| USAA | $95 | $67 |
| Trexis One | $95 | $64 |
| Auto-Owners | $96 | $75 |
| Bristol West | $96 | $69 |
| Allstate | $96 | $66 |
| GEICO | $96 | $67 |
| Aspire General | $96 | $68 |
| Novo Flex | $96 | $68 |
| Liberty Mutual | $96 | $65 |
| GEICO | $96 | $68 |
| First Acceptance | $96 | $64 |
| Direct Auto | $96 | $67 |
| Elephant | $96 | $67 |
| American Family | $96 | $74 |
| Direct Auto | $97 | $67 |
| Dairyland | $97 | $66 |
| USAA | $97 | $66 |
| GAINSCO | $97 | $69 |
| State Farm | $97 | $64 |
| Sun Coast | $97 | $71 |
| Direct Auto | $97 | $66 |
| Direct Auto | $98 | $66 |
| USAA | $98 | $73 |
| Mendota | $98 | $65 |
| Sun Coast | $98 | $79 |
| First Acceptance | $98 | $61 |
| GEICO | $98 | $67 |
| Auto-Owners | $98 | $78 |
| The General | $99 | $76 |
| Erie | $99 | $68 |
| Dairyland | $99 | $65 |
| Root | $99 | $70 |
| USAA | $99 | $70 |
| Trexis One | $99 | $68 |
| Allstate | $99 | $67 |
| State Farm | $99 | $71 |
| The General | $99 | $73 |
| GEICO | $99 | $74 |
| Root | $99 | $69 |
| National General | $100 | $75 |
| Auto-Owners | $100 | $78 |
| Bristol West | $100 | $71 |
| Clearcover | $100 | $75 |
| Novo Next | $100 | $71 |
| Bristol West | $100 | $66 |
| AssuranceAmerica | $100 | $75 |
| Auto-Owners | $101 | $69 |
| Clearcover | $101 | $72 |
| National General | $101 | $72 |
| The General | $101 | $68 |
| Direct Auto | $101 | $72 |
| Farmers | $101 | $69 |
| GEICO | $101 | $75 |
| National General | $101 | $72 |
| Progressive | $101 | $74 |
| State Farm | $101 | $75 |
| Certainly | $102 | $72 |
| National General | $102 | $74 |
| Allstate | $102 | $82 |
| Chubb | $102 | $75 |
| Erie | $102 | $62 |
| Travelers | $102 | $76 |
| Bristol West | $102 | $71 |
| The General | $102 | $74 |
| State Farm | $103 | $77 |
| Allstate | $103 | $79 |
| Mile Auto | $103 | $73 |
| USAA | $103 | $76 |
| American Family | $103 | $76 |
| AssuranceAmerica | $103 | $74 |
| Safeco | $103 | $67 |
| USAA | $103 | $68 |
| Safeco | $103 | $68 |
| First Chicago | $103 | $70 |
| Travelers | $103 | $71 |
| The General | $104 | $70 |
| Direct Auto | $104 | $76 |
| Liberty Mutual | $104 | $71 |
| Dairyland | $104 | $75 |
| GEICO | $104 | $68 |
| Safeco | $104 | $69 |
| USAA | $105 | $72 |
| Allstate | $105 | $79 |
| Safeco | $105 | $69 |
| USAA | $105 | $69 |
| Dairyland | $105 | $71 |
| GEICO | $105 | $74 |
| National General | $106 | $78 |
| Safeco | $106 | $65 |
| State Farm | $106 | $80 |
| Allstate | $106 | $66 |
| Progressive | $106 | $66 |
| USAA | $106 | $80 |
| Elephant | $106 | $73 |
| Farmers | $106 | $73 |
| Liberty Mutual | $106 | $73 |
| GAINSCO | $107 | $74 |
| National General | $107 | $80 |
| Dairyland | $107 | $76 |
| GEICO | $107 | $79 |
| Bristol West | $107 | $73 |
| GEICO | $107 | $79 |
| Mercury | $107 | $72 |
| State Farm | $107 | $80 |
| USAA | $107 | $65 |
| GEICO | $108 | $72 |
| Country Financial | $108 | $83 |
| Root | $108 | $73 |
| GEICO | $108 | $76 |
| Bristol West | $108 | $77 |
| The General | $108 | $84 |
| Erie | $108 | $55 |
| Bristol West | $109 | $81 |
| Safeco | $109 | $71 |
| Novo | $109 | $77 |
| American Family | $109 | $85 |
| American Family | $109 | $78 |
| Safeco | $109 | $70 |
| Bristol West | $109 | $80 |
| Dairyland | $109 | $76 |
| Hugo | $109 | $79 |
| Allstate | $109 | $68 |
| Country Financial | $110 | $85 |
| GEICO | $110 | $79 |
| Shelter | $110 | $76 |
| Root | $110 | $79 |
| The General | $110 | $83 |
| GAINSCO | $110 | $76 |
| State Farm | $111 | $82 |
| Farmers | $111 | $83 |
| State Farm | $111 | $84 |
| Insurify Car | $111 | $74 |
| Mercury | $112 | $74 |
| The General | $112 | $86 |
| Dairyland | $112 | $76 |
| Bristol West | $112 | $80 |
| Farmers | $112 | $78 |
| Liberty Mutual | $112 | $81 |
| The General | $113 | $83 |
| Direct Auto | $113 | $82 |
| Root | $113 | $82 |
| Trexis One | $113 | $90 |
| Elephant | $113 | $77 |
| Safeco | $113 | $73 |
| 21st Century | $113 | $79 |
| Dairyland | $113 | $81 |
| Progressive | $113 | $83 |
| Safeco | $113 | $76 |
| Root | $114 | $79 |
| Chubb | $114 | $84 |
| Chubb | $114 | $75 |
| Farmers | $114 | $81 |
| Bristol West | $114 | $86 |
| Allstate | $114 | $93 |
| Root | $114 | $78 |
| Mendota | $114 | $77 |
| USAA | $115 | $81 |
| National General | $115 | $84 |
| GEICO | $115 | $75 |
| Liberty Mutual | $115 | $80 |
| National General | $115 | $80 |
| Allstate | $116 | $82 |
| Just Unlimited | $116 | $82 |
| Root | $116 | $85 |
| The General | $116 | $86 |
| Allstate | $116 | $84 |
| Bristol West | $117 | $80 |
| First Acceptance | $117 | $83 |
| Travelers | $117 | $83 |
| American Family | $117 | $87 |
| Travelers | $117 | $77 |
| Clearcover | $117 | $89 |
| Progressive | $117 | $96 |
| Direct Auto | $117 | $84 |
| GEICO | $118 | $82 |
| The General | $118 | $88 |
| First Acceptance | $118 | $94 |
| Mendota | $118 | $94 |
| Freedom National | $118 | $95 |
| Travelers | $118 | $82 |
| Travelers | $118 | $80 |
| Bristol West | $118 | $84 |
| Hiroad | $119 | $84 |
| Bristol West | $119 | $82 |
| Erie | $119 | $88 |
| Root | $119 | $89 |
| Elephant | $119 | $88 |
| Travelers | $119 | $89 |
| State Farm | $119 | $70 |
| Progressive | $119 | $93 |
| Safeco | $120 | $75 |
| Root | $120 | $89 |
| The General | $120 | $87 |
| Direct Auto | $120 | $90 |
| Mile Auto | $120 | $90 |
| Root | $120 | $86 |
| Safeco | $120 | $72 |
| Mile Auto | $120 | $91 |
| National General | $121 | $83 |
| Alinsco | $121 | $86 |
| Travelers | $121 | $84 |
| American Family | $121 | $95 |
| Safeco | $121 | $80 |
| GEICO | $121 | $88 |
| Direct Auto | $121 | $89 |
| National General | $121 | $87 |
| National General | $121 | $80 |
| Allstate | $122 | $98 |
| Direct Auto | $122 | $86 |
| The General | $122 | $87 |
| GEICO | $123 | $80 |
| Clearcover | $123 | $95 |
| The General | $123 | $93 |
| GEICO | $123 | $91 |
| Direct Auto | $123 | $92 |
| American Family | $123 | $93 |
| Liberty Mutual | $123 | $90 |
| Bristol West | $123 | $87 |
| The General | $124 | $93 |
| Travelers | $124 | $89 |
| Safeco | $124 | $77 |
| Farmers | $124 | $86 |
| Bristol West | $124 | $90 |
| GEICO | $124 | $72 |
| GEICO | $124 | $88 |
| GAINSCO | $125 | $88 |
| The General | $125 | $91 |
| Just Pay-Per-Mile | $125 | $98 |
| Travelers | $125 | $76 |
| Bristol West | $126 | $92 |
| GAINSCO | $126 | $94 |
| Dairyland | $126 | $95 |
| Lone Star | $126 | $90 |
| Allstate | $126 | $98 |
| Direct Auto | $127 | $90 |
| Bristol West | $127 | $91 |
| Dairyland | $127 | $93 |
| Direct Auto | $127 | $91 |
| Mercury | $127 | $88 |
| GEICO | $127 | $93 |
| Direct Auto | $128 | $84 |
| Liberty Mutual | $128 | $94 |
| Mercury | $128 | $85 |
| Mercury | $128 | $83 |
| USAA | $128 | $96 |
| GAINSCO | $129 | $96 |
| USAA | $129 | $84 |
| GEICO | $129 | $65 |
| Safeco | $129 | $83 |
| Dairyland | $129 | $92 |
| USAA | $130 | $98 |
| Commonwealth Casualty | $130 | $92 |
| Anchor | $130 | $93 |
| Farmers | $130 | $93 |
| Root | $130 | $98 |
| Direct Auto | $130 | $66 |
| Safeco | $130 | $88 |
| Safeco | $130 | $83 |
| Dairyland | $131 | $92 |
| Dairyland | $131 | $93 |
| Allstate | $131 | $96 |
| Freedom National | $131 | $89 |
| Allstate | $131 | $105 |
| GEICO | $132 | $85 |
| GEICO | $132 | $96 |
| National General | $132 | $93 |
| Covercube | $132 | $94 |
| Dairyland | $132 | $96 |
| Auto-Owners | $132 | $98 |
| CSAA | $132 | $94 |
| Clearcover | $132 | $96 |
| Liberty Mutual | $132 | $67 |
| National General | $132 | $67 |
| The General | $132 | $100 |
| Liberty Mutual | $132 | $95 |
| Root | $133 | $99 |
| Mile Auto | $133 | $98 |
| USAA | $133 | $78 |
| Insurify Car | $133 | $96 |
| Progressive | $133 | $104 |
| Clearcover | $134 | $95 |
| Safeco | $134 | $86 |
| Direct Auto | $134 | $99 |
| Root | $135 | $101 |
| GAINSCO | $135 | $98 |
| Elephant | $135 | $93 |
| Travelers | $136 | $69 |
| Direct Auto | $137 | $103 |
| Chubb | $137 | $98 |
| State Farm | $137 | $103 |
| Trexis | $137 | $97 |
| Bristol West | $137 | $97 |
| Root | $137 | $97 |
| Safeco | $137 | $92 |
| AssuranceAmerica | $138 | $97 |
| Direct Auto | $138 | $103 |
| Direct Auto | $138 | $91 |
| Dairyland | $138 | $96 |
| Safeco | $139 | $83 |
| NJM | $139 | $114 |
| Trexis | $139 | $100 |
| The General | $139 | $105 |
| Kemper Special | $140 | $102 |
| Commonwealth Casualty | $140 | $99 |
| GAINSCO | $140 | $99 |
| National General | $141 | $104 |
| Bristol West | $141 | $101 |
| State Farm | $141 | $101 |
| Embark | $141 | $110 |
| Liberty Mutual | $142 | $103 |
| USAA | $142 | $105 |
| Mendota | $142 | $102 |
| Dairyland | $142 | $98 |
| GEICO | $142 | $104 |
| AssuranceAmerica | $143 | $101 |
| Hugo | $143 | $95 |
| First Acceptance | $143 | $97 |
| USAA | $143 | $108 |
| Allstate | $144 | $117 |
| Progressive | $144 | $117 |
| Dairyland | $144 | $103 |
| Travelers | $144 | $99 |
| Farmers | $144 | $103 |
| Insurify Car | $144 | $97 |
| Bristol West | $144 | $95 |
| Farmers | $144 | $104 |
| Allstate | $145 | $90 |
| Bristol West | $145 | $107 |
| Allstate | $145 | $113 |
| Chubb | $145 | $99 |
| Travelers | $145 | $107 |
| CSAA | $146 | $100 |
| Dairyland | $146 | $103 |
| Safeco | $146 | $98 |
| Mendota | $146 | $104 |
| GEICO | $146 | $108 |
| GEICO | $146 | $109 |
| State Farm | $146 | $110 |
| Safeco | $146 | $99 |
| State Farm | $147 | $89 |
| Dairyland | $147 | $97 |
| Travelers | $148 | $104 |
| State Auto | $148 | $114 |
| State Auto | $148 | $115 |
| Bristol West | $148 | $111 |
| Travelers | $148 | $106 |
| Root | $149 | $98 |
| Allstate | $149 | $106 |
| Sun Coast | $149 | $106 |
| Root | $149 | $110 |
| Dairyland | $149 | $112 |
| Farmers | $151 | $107 |
| Insurify Car | $151 | $102 |
| Excepsure | $152 | $108 |
| Dairyland | $152 | $77 |
| Root | $152 | $114 |
| Clearcover | $153 | $111 |
| Direct Auto | $153 | $108 |
| Safeco | $153 | $72 |
| GAINSCO | $153 | $115 |
| Shelter | $154 | $114 |
| National General | $154 | $109 |
| Progressive | $154 | $123 |
| Farmers | $154 | $106 |
| Direct Auto | $155 | $114 |
| The General | $155 | $119 |
| Kemper Rsvp | $155 | $113 |
| Safeco | $155 | $100 |
| Covercube | $155 | $110 |
| Liberty Mutual | $155 | $105 |
| Insurify Car | $155 | $107 |
| Root | $155 | $107 |
| Trexis | $156 | $125 |
| CSAA | $156 | $115 |
| Liberty Mutual | $156 | $111 |
| Shelter | $156 | $116 |
| Dairyland | $157 | $111 |
| GAINSCO | $157 | $116 |
| Farmers | $157 | $118 |
| Root | $158 | $112 |
| Dairyland | $158 | $116 |
| Safeco | $158 | $106 |
| 21st Century | $158 | $116 |
| USAA | $158 | $104 |
| Liberty Mutual | $158 | $109 |
| Loop | $159 | $113 |
| Progressive | $159 | $63 |
| Mendota | $159 | $113 |
| CSAA | $160 | $111 |
| Elephant | $160 | $113 |
| Allstate | $161 | $125 |
| Direct Auto | $161 | $121 |
| National General | $161 | $106 |
| American Family | $161 | $118 |
| Allstate | $161 | $64 |
| Liberty Mutual | $161 | $112 |
| Allstate | $162 | $116 |
| Insurify Car | $162 | $115 |
| National General | $163 | $115 |
| Direct Auto | $164 | $116 |
| Country Financial | $164 | $118 |
| Bristol West | $164 | $120 |
| Bristol West | $164 | $114 |
| Farmers | $165 | $118 |
| Bristol West | $165 | $118 |
| First Acceptance | $165 | $117 |
| State Auto | $166 | $119 |
| Safeco | $166 | $106 |
| Dairyland | $166 | $119 |
| Direct Auto | $167 | $123 |
| Travelers | $167 | $125 |
| Root | $167 | $110 |
| Travelers | $168 | $120 |
| GEICO | $168 | $101 |
| GAINSCO | $168 | $124 |
| Mendota | $168 | $114 |
| Dairyland | $169 | $125 |
| Insurify Car | $170 | $128 |
| Shelter | $170 | $121 |
| Hugo | $170 | $115 |
| Shelter | $170 | $123 |
| Liberty Mutual | $170 | $121 |
| Safeco | $171 | $109 |
| Bristol West | $171 | $128 |
| The General | $171 | $130 |
| Safeco | $172 | $102 |
| Farmers | $173 | $130 |
| Insurify Car | $173 | $124 |
| Farmers | $173 | $122 |
| Safeco | $173 | $117 |
| CSAA | $174 | $130 |
| Trexis | $175 | $136 |
| Sun Coast | $175 | $137 |
| AssuranceAmerica | $175 | $129 |
| Dairyland | $176 | $116 |
| USAA | $176 | $116 |
| Dairyland | $176 | $132 |
| Liberty Mutual | $176 | $132 |
| Auto-Owners | $177 | $135 |
| State Farm | $178 | $90 |
| Safeco | $178 | $118 |
| Liberty Mutual | $178 | $134 |
| The Hartford | $179 | $121 |
| Travelers | $179 | $134 |
| Progressive | $180 | $112 |
| Chubb | $181 | $119 |
| Liberty Mutual | $181 | $119 |
| Mercury | $181 | $128 |
| Liberty Mutual | $181 | $135 |
| Country Financial | $182 | $137 |
| Farmers | $182 | $123 |
| CSAA | $183 | $138 |
| National General | $183 | $138 |
| Liberty Mutual | $184 | $136 |
| AssuranceAmerica | $184 | $136 |
| Hugo | $184 | $147 |
| Root | $185 | $140 |
| Safeco | $185 | $111 |
| Travelers | $186 | $135 |
| Insurify Car | $186 | $145 |
| Insurify Car | $186 | $145 |
| Bristol West | $187 | $141 |
| Shelter | $187 | $132 |
| Trexis One | $187 | $133 |
| Plymouth Rock | $187 | $132 |
| State Auto | $187 | $132 |
| Allstate | $188 | $150 |
| Progressive | $189 | $115 |
| Bristol West | $189 | $139 |
| Trexis One | $189 | $152 |
| Clearcover | $190 | $148 |
| Bristol West | $190 | $140 |
| Allstate | $190 | $118 |
| GEICO | $190 | $142 |
| Allstate | $190 | $156 |
| Liberty Mutual | $190 | $142 |
| Mercury | $191 | $132 |
| Liberty Mutual | $192 | $125 |
| The General | $194 | $147 |
| GAINSCO | $194 | $128 |
| Travelers | $195 | $138 |
| Allstate | $195 | $158 |
| State Auto | $195 | $139 |
| Chubb | $195 | $138 |
| Liberty Mutual | $196 | $129 |
| Liberty Mutual | $196 | $129 |
| Liberty Mutual | $196 | $147 |
| Dairyland | $197 | $147 |
| GEICO | $198 | $147 |
| Root | $198 | $145 |
| Hugo | $198 | $136 |
| Liberty Mutual | $199 | $140 |
| Root | $199 | $140 |
| Dairyland | $199 | $147 |
| Root | $199 | $147 |
| State Auto | $199 | $155 |
| AssuranceAmerica | $199 | $145 |
| Hugo | $200 | $142 |
| Hugo | $201 | $147 |
| Trexis One | $202 | $157 |
| Insurify Car | $202 | $144 |
| Clearcover | $202 | $154 |
| Farmers | $203 | $144 |
| Progressive | $203 | $165 |
| Farmers | $204 | $150 |
| State Auto | $204 | $139 |
| The General | $205 | $159 |
| GAINSCO | $205 | $155 |
| Mendota | $205 | $161 |
| Allstate | $205 | $167 |
| Direct Auto | $206 | $155 |
| Mercury | $206 | $143 |
| Allstate | $206 | $169 |
| Direct Auto | $206 | $156 |
| Hugo | $207 | $166 |
| Allstate | $207 | $162 |
| National General | $207 | $153 |
| AssuranceAmerica | $208 | $157 |
| Direct Auto | $208 | $137 |
| Bristol West | $210 | $138 |
| First Acceptance | $210 | $153 |
| Root | $210 | $158 |
| Travelers | $210 | $158 |
| Direct Auto | $210 | $157 |
| Allstate | $211 | $131 |
| Direct Auto | $211 | $139 |
| Progressive | $212 | $172 |
| State Auto | $212 | $164 |
| Travelers | $213 | $160 |
| Safeco | $215 | $144 |
| CSAA | $215 | $162 |
| State Farm | $216 | $142 |
| Trexis One | $216 | $177 |
| Travelers | $217 | $160 |
| GEICO | $217 | $159 |
| National General | $220 | $164 |
| 21st Century | $220 | $160 |
| Erie | $221 | $147 |
| Direct Auto | $222 | $167 |
| Travelers | $223 | $168 |
| Progressive | $225 | $184 |
| Direct Auto | $226 | $167 |
| Trexis | $226 | $177 |
| State Farm | $226 | $149 |
| Mendota | $227 | $186 |
| Root | $227 | $168 |
| Liberty Mutual | $227 | $171 |
| GAINSCO | $228 | $170 |
| National General | $228 | $172 |
| GEICO | $228 | $170 |
| Progressive | $228 | $179 |
| Hugo | $229 | $163 |
| Root | $229 | $171 |
| Travelers | $229 | $169 |
| Direct Auto | $230 | $174 |
| First Acceptance | $231 | $189 |
| GEICO | $233 | $153 |
| National General | $233 | $176 |
| Insurify Car | $233 | $191 |
| Trexis | $233 | $191 |
| Safeco | $233 | $155 |
| Liberty Mutual | $233 | $167 |
| Root | $236 | $174 |
| Hugo | $236 | $184 |
| Liberty Mutual | $237 | $168 |
| State Farm | $238 | $158 |
| Just Unlimited | $239 | $187 |
| Clearcover | $239 | $162 |
| Bristol West | $240 | $181 |
| Elephant | $240 | $158 |
| GEICO | $241 | $157 |
| Safeco | $241 | $159 |
| Excepsure | $242 | $198 |
| The General | $242 | $186 |
| CSAA | $243 | $160 |
| USAA | $244 | $162 |
| GEICO | $245 | $160 |
| State Auto | $248 | $176 |
| Root | $249 | $187 |
| AssuranceAmerica | $250 | $187 |
| Travelers | $251 | $165 |
| Safeco | $251 | $150 |
| Chubb | $252 | $180 |
| Liberty Mutual | $252 | $188 |
| Liberty Mutual | $253 | $179 |
| Dairyland | $254 | $190 |
| Bristol West | $255 | $166 |
| Safeco | $255 | $173 |
| Insurify Car | $258 | $207 |
| Travelers | $258 | $194 |
| Erie | $258 | $170 |
| CSAA | $258 | $170 |
| First Acceptance | $260 | $208 |
| National General | $261 | $172 |
| Hugo | $265 | $206 |
| CSAA | $265 | $176 |
| Shelter | $273 | $203 |
| Progressive | $275 | $171 |
| First Acceptance | $277 | $216 |
| Insurify Car | $280 | $174 |
| Liberty Mutual | $281 | $208 |
| Chubb | $284 | $172 |
| CSAA | $284 | $172 |
| Farmers | $284 | $210 |
| GAINSCO | $289 | $190 |
| GEICO | $292 | $218 |
| Dairyland | $294 | $221 |
| Travelers | $296 | $193 |
| Mendota | $298 | $232 |
| Root | $301 | $198 |
| Bristol West | $301 | $227 |
| Travelers | $305 | $201 |
| Bristol West | $305 | $226 |
| Progressive | $314 | $198 |
| Liberty Mutual | $315 | $232 |
| Mercury | $315 | $223 |
| Hugo | $323 | $248 |
| Bristol West | $323 | $213 |
| Liberty Mutual | $324 | $244 |
| Hugo | $329 | $263 |
| Progressive | $333 | $178 |
| Hugo | $334 | $274 |
| American Family | $335 | $258 |
| Bristol West | $337 | $252 |
| Travelers | $339 | $251 |
| Liberty Mutual | $342 | $257 |
| Embark | $343 | $209 |
| Liberty Mutual | $347 | $262 |
| State Farm | $352 | $266 |
| Liberty Mutual | $369 | $243 |
| Liberty Mutual | $387 | $257 |
| Liberty Mutual | $406 | $307 |
| Amica | $414 | $263 |
| Bristol West | $430 | $261 |
| 21st Century | $438 | $272 |
| Travelers | $456 | $344 |
Best car insurance companies after a DWI in North Carolina
Approximately 0.77% of drivers in North Carolina have a DWI on their records, according to Insurify data. Although rates may vary based on your unique situation, we found that the following three insurers are among the best companies for drivers with DWIs in North Carolina.
Erie Insurance: Best for full coverage after a DWI in North Carolina
| User Reviews | 4.4 |
|---|---|
| IQ Score The Insurify Quality (IQ) Score uses more than 15 criteria to objectively rate insurance companies on a one-to-ten scale. The Insurify editorial team researches insurer data to determine the final scores. | 8.4 /10 |
| Liability Only Liability-only insurance, sometimes called minimum-coverage insurance, pays for bodily injury and property damage to others in an accident the policyholder causes. It does not pay for the insured’s own damages. | $55/mo |
| Full Coverage Full-coverage car insurance generally includes liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage, and may include other optional coverages such as uninsured motorist coverage. Collision covers a policyholder’s repair or replacement costs in case of an accident. Comprehensive covers damages caused by non-accident events. The average quote displayed here reflects policies with the following coverage limits: $50,000 bodily injury liability per person; $100,000 bodily injury liability per accident; $50,00 property damage liability per accident; $1,000 collision deductible; and a $1,000 comprehensive deductible. | $91/mo |
4.4
Best choice in North CarolinaBased on 558 verified driver reviews and ratings
Erie Insurance's score | Industry average | |
|---|---|---|
| Coverage options | 4.2 | 3.2 |
| Customer service | 3.8 | 3.6 |
| Discounts | 3.7 | 2.9 |
| Policy transparency | 4.0 | 3.1 |
| Value | 3.7 | 2.9 |
How drivers feel about Erie Insurance
Customers appreciate the insurer’s excellent customer service and quick claim handling but are dissatisfied with the unexpected and unexplained rate increases. Some also found the policy details hard to understand.
Based on analysis of verified reviews collected by Insurify
Best in North Carolina for
Showing 5 reviews from North Carolina driversSee all 242 Erie Insurance reviews
Verified Review
Reviewed in North Carolina on August 10, 2026
Low cost for the coverage offered.
Verified Review
Reviewed in North Carolina on February 21, 2026
Excellent company until they canceled my policy following a three-car accident for which I was not at fault and received no citations.
Verified Review
Reviewed in North Carolina on January 30, 2026
My current insurance, which cancels for a new company policy tomorrow, has been great in terms of the people, customer service, and thoughtfulness.
JD Power
J.D. Power data measures overall customer satisfaction and claims satisfaction based on a 1,000-point scale.
700
NAIC Index
Average amount of customer complaints relative to competitors on a 0-5 scale. A lower score represents fewer complaints.
0.68
A.M. Best
A.M. Best analyzes an insurer’s financials, operating performance, business profile, and other factors to generate an opinion-based rating of a company’s financial and credit strength. Ratings range from A++ (exceptional) to D (poor).
A+
Why we picked this company
Erie has some of the cheapest full-coverage policies for drivers with a DWI in North Carolina. Besides low rates, Erie is also a top-ranked insurer for customer satisfaction, according to the 2026 J.D. Power Insurance Shopping Study. Plus, it has many optional coverages you can add to your policy for added protection, including coverage for your dog or cat if they’re hurt in an accident.
Pros
Low full-coverage rates after a DWI
Top-ranked for customer satisfaction in J.D. Power study
Multiple coverage add-ons available
Cons
Usage-based program not available in NC
Limited discounts in NC
No online quotes
Direct Auto: Best for usage-based insurance after a DWI in North Carolina
| A.M. Best A.M. Best analyzes an insurer’s financials, operating performance, business profile, and other factors to generate an opinion-based rating of a company’s financial and credit strength. Ratings range from A++ (exceptional) to D (poor). | A |
|---|---|
| IQ Score The Insurify Quality (IQ) Score uses more than 15 criteria to objectively rate insurance companies on a one-to-ten scale. The Insurify editorial team researches insurer data to determine the final scores. | 8.3 /10 |
| Liability Only Liability-only insurance, sometimes called minimum-coverage insurance, pays for bodily injury and property damage to others in an accident the policyholder causes. It does not pay for the insured’s own damages. | $66/mo |
| Full Coverage Full-coverage car insurance generally includes liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage, and may include other optional coverages such as uninsured motorist coverage. Collision covers a policyholder’s repair or replacement costs in case of an accident. Comprehensive covers damages caused by non-accident events. The average quote displayed here reflects policies with the following coverage limits: $50,000 bodily injury liability per person; $100,000 bodily injury liability per accident; $50,00 property damage liability per accident; $1,000 collision deductible; and a $1,000 comprehensive deductible. | $94/mo |
How drivers feel about Direct Auto
Drivers appreciate the insurer’s helpful customer service and easy-to-use website. But they dislike the frequent and significant rate increases, especially for those with clean driving records. Some also report difficulties with roadside assistance.
Based on analysis of verified reviews collected by Insurify
Best in North Carolina for
Showing 19 reviews from North Carolina driversSee all 546 Direct Auto reviews
Verified Review
Reviewed in North Carolina on October 6, 2026
Insurance is too high for a ten-year-old car.
Verified Review
Reviewed in North Carolina on September 4, 2026
Make sure they give you the full details of your quote, or they may come back later saying you don’t qualify for a discount that wasn’t mentioned in your quote. My quote went from $233 to $310. I would have stayed with my prior insurer if I’d known that.
Verified Review
Reviewed in North Carolina on July 28, 2026
Very expensive. I tried getting full coverage on all my vehicles, but for two of them they only put liability, which irritated me.
JD Power
J.D. Power data measures overall customer satisfaction and claims satisfaction based on a 1,000-point scale.
Not rated
NAIC Index
Average amount of customer complaints relative to competitors on a 0-5 scale. A lower score represents fewer complaints.
Not rated
Why we picked this company
North Carolina drivers tend to cover fewer miles than the national average each year, according to Insurify data. So if you live in the state and have a DWI on your record, enrolling in a usage-based insurance (UBI) program like Direct Auto’s DynamicDrive could help you save money.
When you enroll in DynamicDrive, you can save up to 10%. If you drive safely, you could save even more over time.
Pros
Usage-based coverage may reduce rates
Multiple discounts available
Optional coverage add-ons available
Cons
Below-average J.D. Power customer service ratings
Poor Trustpilot reviews
Liberty Mutual: Best for new-car owners after a DWI in North Carolina
| User Reviews | 3.4 |
|---|---|
| IQ Score The Insurify Quality (IQ) Score uses more than 15 criteria to objectively rate insurance companies on a one-to-ten scale. The Insurify editorial team researches insurer data to determine the final scores. | 8.4 /10 |
| Liability Only Liability-only insurance, sometimes called minimum-coverage insurance, pays for bodily injury and property damage to others in an accident the policyholder causes. It does not pay for the insured’s own damages. | $67/mo |
| Full Coverage Full-coverage car insurance generally includes liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage, and may include other optional coverages such as uninsured motorist coverage. Collision covers a policyholder’s repair or replacement costs in case of an accident. Comprehensive covers damages caused by non-accident events. The average quote displayed here reflects policies with the following coverage limits: $50,000 bodily injury liability per person; $100,000 bodily injury liability per accident; $50,00 property damage liability per accident; $1,000 collision deductible; and a $1,000 comprehensive deductible. | $111/mo |
3.4
A solid option in North CarolinaBased on 4,501 verified driver reviews and ratings
Liberty Mutual's score | Industry average | |
|---|---|---|
| Coverage options | 3.6 | 3.2 |
| Customer service | 3.4 | 3.6 |
| Discounts | 3.3 | 2.9 |
| Policy transparency | 3.4 | 3.1 |
| Value | 3.0 | 2.9 |
How drivers feel about Liberty Mutual
Drivers appreciate the ease of making payments and the company’s helpful customer service. But they dislike the frequent and unexplained rate increases, and some report difficulties in communication and claim handling.
Based on analysis of verified reviews collected by Insurify
Best in North Carolina for
Showing 8 reviews from North Carolina driversSee all 2,047 Liberty Mutual reviews
Verified Review
Reviewed in North Carolina on September 22, 2026
They refused to support my claim that I was not at fault when another vehicle sideswiped my car.
Verified Review
Reviewed in North Carolina on July 17, 2026
Great overall.
Verified Review
Reviewed in North Carolina on July 9, 2026
Excellent and knowledgeable. Very good—thank you.
JD Power
J.D. Power data measures overall customer satisfaction and claims satisfaction based on a 1,000-point scale.
612
NAIC Index
Average amount of customer complaints relative to competitors on a 0-5 scale. A lower score represents fewer complaints.
4.28
A.M. Best
A.M. Best analyzes an insurer’s financials, operating performance, business profile, and other factors to generate an opinion-based rating of a company’s financial and credit strength. Ratings range from A++ (exceptional) to D (poor).
A
Why we picked this company
Nearly 30% of drivers in North Carolina have an outstanding car loan, according to Insurify data, highlighting the importance of protection for newer cars. With Liberty Mutual, drivers who have a DWI on their records don’t have to sacrifice protection. They can get relatively affordable coverage and add options like gap insurance and new car replacement coverage to their policies.
Pros
Offers gap insurance and new car replacement coverage
Multiple discounts available
Special rates for teachers, service members, and veterans
Cons
Above-average number of complaints with the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC)
More expensive than some competitors for full coverage
Mixed customer reviews
How we chose the best companies
Our editorial team analyzed our proprietary data, more than 80,000 verified user reviews, and third-party industry ratings to choose the best insurers for drivers with a DWI in North Carolina. We also weight rate affordability, coverage options, available discounts, customer satisfaction rankings, and financial strength.
How to get car insurance after a DWI in North Carolina
After a DWI, follow these steps to get car insurance:
Complete court-ordered penalties. Pay any fines, complete community service or probation requirements, and follow the court’s rulings.
Undergo a substance use assessment. In North Carolina, anyone convicted of a DWI must complete a substance use assessment through an approved provider. You must undergo a substance use assessment to get your license reinstated.[4]
Enroll in an education or treatment program. North Carolina requires drivers convicted of a DWI to complete either an education or treatment program.
Shop for coverage. Not all insurers will work with a driver with a DWI on their record, so you may have to shop around and consider non-standard companies that specialize in insuring high-risk drivers.
Pay reinstatement fees. Contact the DMV to get your license reinstated and to pay the necessary fees.
Provide proof of insurance. Rather than SR-22 or FR-44 coverage, North Carolina requires drivers who are reinstating their license to file a DL-123 form, proving they have coverage that meets the state’s minimum liability requirements.[5]
Adjust your coverage, if appropriate. If your insurance premiums are too high after a DWI, consider reducing your coverage limits or dropping collision and comprehensive insurance if you have an older car.
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Full-coverage policies average $285/mo. for drivers with a DWI
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DWI laws in North Carolina
In North Carolina, you can be convicted of a DWI if you were driving under the influence of an impairing substance (which can include prescription medications), with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher, or if you were driving under the influence of a Schedule I controlled substance.
What are the penalties for DWI in North Carolina?
The consequences of a DWI are steep in North Carolina. Depending on the severity of the event, aggregating factors, and your driving record, you could face jail time, financial fines, and have to complete community service and continuous alcohol monitoring (CAM).
At a minimum, for a first offense, North Carolina suspends the licenses of drivers convicted of a DWI for at least one year. A second offense will lead to a four-year suspension, while a third or subsequent offense will lead to a permanent suspension.
Refusing to perform a chemical breathalyzer or blood test will result in an immediate suspension of your driver’s license for at least one year.
All drivers convicted of a DWI must complete a substance use assessment and education or treatment, and they may need to install an ignition interlock device on their vehicles. In addition, drivers may face the following penalties after a DWI in North Carolina, according to the North Carolina Sentencing and Policy Advisory Commission.[6]
Level | Sentence | If Suspended, Special Probation Requirements | Maximum Fine | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3+ grossly aggravating factors | Level A1 | 12–36 months | Active term of at least 120+ days and 120 days of CAM | $10,000 |
| 2 grossly aggravating factors or driving with a minor or disabled person | 1 | 30 days to 24 months | Active term of at least 30 days or 10 days and 120 days of CAM | $4,000 |
| 1 grossly aggravating factor other than driving with a minor or disabled person | 2 | 7 days to 12 months | Active term of at least 7 days or 90 days CAM | $2,000 |
| Aggravating > Mitigating | 3 | 72 hours to 6 months | Active term of 72 hours and/or 72 hours of community service | $1,000 |
| Aggravating = Mitigating or None | 4 | 48 hours to 120 days | Active term of 48 hours and/or 48 hours of community service | $500 |
| Mitigating > Aggravating | 5 | 24 hours to 60 days | Active term of 24 hours and/or 24 hours of community service | $200 |
How long does a DWI stay on your record in North Carolina?
In North Carolina, a DWI will stay on your record permanently, and DWI convictions can’t be expunged, according to the North Carolina General Assembly. Although your record will always show the DWI conviction, the DWI affects your insurance points (and increases premiums) for only five years.
Expert’s insight
“North Carolina has some tough DWI laws and if you’re convicted of impaired driving, you could lose your license for a while. It’s important to maintain active insurance during that time, though, especially if you own a registered vehicle. A lapse in coverage can make it even harder and costlier to get coverage once you’re driving again.”
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Austin MoyersLicensed P&C Insurance Agent and Sales Manager
SR-22 insurance in North Carolina
An SR-22 certificate is a form that your insurer files with the state to prove that you meet the minimum liability requirements to drive legally. Many states require this form for high-risk drivers with incidents on their record, such as a DWI. North Carolina uses Form DL-123 as proof that you have liability insurance.
To reinstate your license in North Carolina, you need to complete the court-ordered requirements, complete the substance use assessment and education or treatment plan, and obtain insurance with a DL-123 form.
Minimum car insurance requirements in NC after a DWI
Unlike some states, North Carolina doesn’t increase coverage requirements after a DWI. All drivers must have coverage that meets the state’s minimum requirements, regardless of their driving record.
In July 2025, North Carolina increased its minimum coverage requirements. All drivers must have policies that meet these coverage minimums:
$50,000 in bodily injury liability for one person
$100,000 in bodily injury liability for two or more people
$50,000 in property damage liability
All policies must also include uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage.
How long a DWI stays on your record varies by state. In North Carolina, a DWI stays on your record permanently, but it affects your car insurance rates for only five years.
Shop for Insurance After a DWI in North Carolina
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How to lower DWI insurance costs in North Carolina
Although car insurance premium increases are unavoidable after a DWI in North Carolina, you have some ways to lower your insurance rates:
Switch to a usage-based insurance (UBI) policy. On average, North Carolina drivers cover fewer miles per year than drivers in the rest of the country. If you tend to have a short commute or work from home — and maintain safe driving habits — enrolling in a UBI policy could help you save money.
Adjust your coverage. Dropping from a full-coverage policy to a basic liability-only policy could slash your premiums in half. Just keep in mind that dropping collision and comprehensive insurance can be risky if your car is expensive to repair or replace. Considering that 68% of North Carolina drivers own their vehicles, according to Insurify data, your car’s value is an important factor to keep in mind when making a decision on what coverage you need.
Increase your deductible. A higher deductible means you’ll pay more up front for a collision or comprehensive claim, but you’ll have lower premiums.
Shop around. Rates vary by insurer, so request quotes from several companies to find the best rates after a DWI.
DWI car insurance in North Carolina FAQs
After a DWI conviction, it’s important to take steps to get your license reinstated and insurance policy in place. The following information can help you as you shop for affordable coverage in North Carolina.
What is the cheapest car insurance company in North Carolina after a DWI?
The cheapest car insurance company in North Carolina after a DWI conviction is Erie, with an average monthly liability premium of $108.
How long will a DWI affect your car insurance premium in North Carolina?
In North Carolina, a DWI will affect your car insurance premiums for five years, but it’ll stay on your driving record permanently.
How much is DWI insurance in North Carolina?
On average, drivers in North Carolina who have a DWI on their records pay $174 per month for liability insurance. For full-coverage policies, drivers pay a monthly average of $285.
How do multiple DWIs affect your car insurance rates in North Carolina?
Multiple DWIs in North Carolina can cause your car insurance rates to skyrocket, and the state may suspend your license. Depending on the number of convictions, license suspensions can range from one year to permanent revocations.
Sources
- North Carolina Department of Insurance. "Changes to the Rating of Automobile Insurance Policies, Effective July 1, 2025."
- Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. "Fatality Facts 2024."
- North Carolina Department of Insurance. "Safe Driver Incentive Plan."
- North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services. "Driving While Impaired."
- North Carolina Department of Transportation. "License Suspensions."
- North Carolina Sentencing and Policy Advisory Commission. "DWI Sentencing."
Methodology
Insurify data scientists analyzed more than 250 million quotes served to car insurance applicants in Insurify’s proprietary database to calculate the premium averages displayed on this page. These premiums are real quotes that come directly from Insurify’s 500+ partner insurance companies in all 50 states and Washington, D.C. Quote averages represent the median price for a quote across the given coverage level, driver subset, and geographic area.
Unless otherwise specified, quoted rates reflect the average cost for drivers between 20 and 70 years old with a clean driving record and average or better credit (a credit score of 600 or higher).
Liability-only premium averages correspond to policies with the following coverage limits:
- Bodily injury limits between state-minimum rates and $50,000 per person, $100,000 per accident
- Property damage limits between $10,000 and $50,000
- No additional coverage
- Comprehensive coverage with a $1,000 deductible
- Collision coverage with a $1,000 deductible
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Writer: Katie PowersLicensed P&C Agent, Senior Insurance Editor
Writer: Katie PowersLicensed P&C Agent, Senior Insurance Editor
Qualifications:
Licensed auto and home insurance agent
4+ years experience in insurance and personal finance editing
NPN: 20564519
Katie uses her knowledge and expertise as a licensed property and casualty agent in Massachusetts to help readers understand the complexities of insurance shopping.
Editor: Katie PowersLicensed P&C Agent, Senior Insurance Editor
Editor: Katie PowersLicensed P&C Agent, Senior Insurance Editor
Qualifications:
Licensed auto and home insurance agent
4+ years experience in insurance and personal finance editing
NPN: 20564519
Katie uses her knowledge and expertise as a licensed property and casualty agent in Massachusetts to help readers understand the complexities of insurance shopping.
Reviewer: David MarlettAdvisor
Reviewer: David MarlettAdvisor
Qualifications:
25 years teaching risk management and insurance course
Former commercial lines underwriter
David is the managing director of the Brantley Risk and Insurance Center. He has been quoted by The New York Times and CNN.