If you’ve been convicted of driving under the influence (DUI) in Ontario—whether it involves alcohol or drugs—the consequences are serious. Beyond fines, suspensions, and mandatory programs, your car insurance will be heavily impacted, as you’ll likely need high-risk auto insurance. Use the updated information below to understand what happens after a DUI conviction and the potential effect on your premiums.
Zero Alcohol Tolerance for Novice Drivers
In Ontario, novice drivers (G1, G2, M1, M2, M2-L, or M2-M license holders) face strict penalties under the zero-tolerance alcohol law. Here’s what you need to know:
- Zero alcohol in blood: Any trace results in an immediate 24-hour roadside suspension.
- Conviction Penalty:
- 30-day license suspension
- Fine between $60–$500
- License cancellation, requiring the driver to retake all tests
Additionally, if a novice driver is caught with a warn-range blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.05 to 0.08, the penalties increase significantly.
Penalties for Drivers with Warn-Range BAC (0.05 to 0.08)
| Offence | Penalty |
| First Time | 3-day roadside license suspension + $150 fine |
| Second Time | 7-day suspension + $250 fine + mandatory alcohol education program |
| Third Time | 30-day suspension + $450 fine + alcohol education program and assessment |
Consequences of a DUI Conviction in Ontario
If you are convicted of a DUI, the penalties are more severe than a roadside suspension. Here’s what you can expect:
Penalties for First DUI Offence:
- Mandatory alcohol education program
- 1-year license suspension (may be reduced with an ignition interlock device)
- Ignition Interlock Program: Must install and maintain for at least 1 year
- $1,000 minimum fine
- No minimum jail sentence
Impact on Car Insurance:
- Insurance providers may refuse renewal, forcing drivers to seek high risk insurance.
- Premiums can increase by 150-300%, depending on the location and driving history.
- You will need a high-risk auto insurance provider specializing in DUI convictions.
Sample Insurance Costs with a DUI Conviction (2024 Data)
Here’s how a DUI conviction impacts insurance rates across different cities in Ontario.
Sample Insurance Costs with a DUI Conviction (2024 Data)
| City | Car Insurance Before DUI | Car Insurance After DUI | % Increase |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barrie Car Insurance | $1,963/year ($163.58/month) | $5,656/year ($471.33/month) | 188% |
| London Car Insurance | $1,809/year ($150.75/month) | $5,752/year ($479.33/month) | 218% |
| Hamilton Car Insurance | $1,958/year ($163.17/month) | $6,494/year ($541.17/month) | 232% |
| Toronto Car Insurance | $2,126/year ($177.17/month) | $8,852/year ($737.67/month) | 316% |
Note: The driver profile in the sample above is a 34-year-old male driving a 2024 VW Tiguan for 10 km to work daily, with an annual mileage of 15,000 km and continuous insurance coverage for 10 years prior to the DUI. Individual results may vary based on many factors.
DUI Insurance – High Risk Car Insurance After Impaired Driving Conviction: What to Expect
After a DUI conviction, you’ll likely need high risk auto insurance. Here are some things to consider:
- Expect stricter terms: High deductibles and higher premiums will apply.
- Availability varies: Not all Ontario insurers offer high risk policies.
- Coverage limitations: Some insurers may restrict optional coverages, such as collision or comprehensive.
If you’ve been convicted of DUI, it’s essential to contact a broker specializing in high risk car insurance to compare quotes and explore your options.
Get a DUI Insurance Quote Today
Need help finding DUI insurance in Ontario? We work with high-risk insurance providers that offer tailored coverage options for drivers with impaired driving convictions. Click below to request a quote and find out what options are available to you.
A DUI conviction carries long-lasting financial and legal consequences. From fines and mandatory programs to skyrocketing insurance premiums, drivers need to prepare for the challenges ahead. Working with a broker experienced in high-risk auto insurance can help you find the right coverage at the best possible rate.
At Humberview Insurance, we’ve been proudly serving Ontario for over 40 years, helping drivers navigate challenging situations, including those with DUI convictions. Our team specializes in DUI insurance, providing tailored solutions to get you back on the road with the right coverage at competitive rates. If you need help finding high-risk auto insurance, trust Humberview Insurance to guide you every step of the way.
This article was originally written in 2015 and refreshed in 2024