Can I keep auto insurance with a revoked driver’s license?

We understand that if you lose your driver’s license, it can be life-changing and stressful. You may be wondering, ‘Is my car insurance valid if my license is suspended or revoked?’ Learn about the potential legal repercussions, whether you can still qualify for auto insurance, and the reasons your insurance company could cancel your policy below.

Am I still insured if my license is suspended or revoked?

If your license is revoked, you may still be able to insure your vehicle, but the insurer may cancel your insurance, as well as prevent you from purchasing a new policy. It’s best to contact your insurance company directly to be sure. 

Purchasing or keeping your auto insurance if your license is suspended or revoked depends on multiple factors. Those include circumstances of the suspension or revocation, the time left on the policy, and the type of policy you have or want to purchase, plus any requirements from your insurance provider. Another key factor is the reason your license was suspended or revoked.

The answer to this question varies from state to state, but there are some general reasons that could cause your license to be revoked or suspended:

• Driving without insurance and/or registration 
• Driving while under the influence
• Accumulation of points
• An excess amount of traffic tickets
• Failure to make a payment or deadline

Whether the suspension is definite or indefinite depends on the laws in each individual state. 

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What happens if you drive with a revoked license?

Insurance companies have access to much of the same data as the DMV, so even if you do not notify your insurance provider that your driver’s license has been suspended or revoked, they will find out. So what happens if your license is revoked? Or what happens with your insurance if your license is suspended? 

Suspension is usually temporary, while a revoked license means you lose it permanently. There may be subtle differences in how they affect your auto insurance policy. First, you may not qualify to purchase a new policy or renew an existing one if your license is suspended or revoked. This is because you do not have a valid license, and you can’t legally drive. But what if you have an existing policy already? How will having your license revoked or suspended affect it?

• Definite suspension- Definite suspension means that there is a date limit. At the end of that period, you will need to pay any applicable fines and apply to have your driver’s license reinstated. If you are caught driving or get in an accident, you will not be covered. Even if your insurance company doesn’t cancel your policy, if it comes up for renewal before the suspension period is over you won’t be able to renew.
• Indefinite suspension- With indefinite suspension, there is no end date to the suspension period. Rather, the driver is required to take a certain action or fulfill a certain requirement before they can qualify to have their license reinstated. Therefore, your insurance company may not necessarily cancel your policy. If you comply with the requirements as quickly as possible, you may be able to get back in the driver’s seat without any gap or lapse in coverage. 
• Administrative review suspension- This kind of suspension is usually related to a medical condition that makes it hazardous for a person to drive. They will only lift the suspension after a doctor makes a written recommendation based on a change in condition. Without the doctor’s recommendation, your policy will eventually expire and you’ll be unable to renew.
• Revocation- Driver’s license revocation is viewed as permanent, so as soon as your insurance company is notified your policy will be canceled. Even if they don’t cancel it, you will not be covered if you are in an accident and do not have a valid driver’s license. 

There’s really no sense in insuring a car you can’t drive. And as hard as it may seem, it is not worth getting caught by the police if you are driving without a valid driver’s license. It will only make your situation worse. So consider other modes of travel, such as public transportation, carpooling, or cycling.  

Can Insurance Companies Check if Your License is Suspended?

Insurance companies regularly access DMV records, allowing them to determine whether a policyholder’s driver’s license is suspended or revoked. This capability helps insurers assess their risk accurately. If an insurance company discovers a suspension or revocation, it may affect your policy, potentially leading to an adjustment in your premium or even cancellation of your coverage. It is crucial for policyholders to notify their insurer if their driving status changes to maintain transparency and avoid complications.

Obtaining Car Insurance with a Suspended or Revoked License

While it is challenging, obtaining car insurance with a suspended or revoked license is still possible. Insurers often provide “non-standard” insurance policies tailored to high-risk drivers, including those with a revoked or suspended license. These policies generally come with higher premiums due to the increased risk associated with insuring drivers who may not legally operate a vehicle. Shopping around for insurers who specialize in high-risk policies can provide options for maintaining coverage.

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Coverage and Accidents with a Suspended License

Insurance coverage for accidents occurring while your license is suspended can be complex. Most policies require that the policyholder maintains a valid driver’s license. If you have an accident while your license is suspended, your insurer might not cover the damages, especially if the suspension was due to serious infractions like DUIs. Policyholders should thoroughly understand their policy’s terms and conditions regarding how a suspended license affects coverage.

What Happens With Your Insurance if Your License is Suspended or Revoked

If your license is suspended or revoked, your auto insurance provider may cancel your policy or increase your premiums significantly. This action reflects the higher risk you pose as a driver without a valid license. If your policy is canceled, it can be challenging to secure new insurance due to your high-risk status. It’s important to contact your insurance provider immediately after a license suspension or revocation to discuss your options and avoid lapses in coverage.

Insurance Options After License Suspension or Revocation

Drivers with a suspended or revoked license might need to explore alternative insurance options, such as:

• High-risk insurance policies: These policies are designed for drivers who do not qualify for standard insurance due to their driving history.
• Adding a co-driver: Some insurance policies might allow you to maintain coverage by adding another licensed driver to the policy.
• State-assigned risk pools: For drivers who cannot obtain insurance through traditional insurers, many states offer risk pools that provide necessary coverage.

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Final Thoughts on Keeping Auto Insurance When Your License Is Revoked 

A suspended license may not need to cause a lapse in coverage. But if your license is revoked or suspended for a definite time period, it may be canceled until your license is reinstated. Even if it’s not canceled, you won’t be able to renew it or purchase a new one. Driving without auto insurance or a valid driver’s license is illegal, so you’ll need to find an alternate means of transportation until you’re able to get it reinstated.

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