Convicted driver insurance guide

If you have committed certain crimes, then it can be challenging to get car insurance.

This guide explains all you need to know about convicted driver insurance, including the impact of points on your licence and what is included in the coverage.

What is convicted driver insurance?

Convicted driver insurance is a specialist form of car insurance designed for motorists who have driving-related convictions on their record.

This can include anything from penalty points and fixed‑penalty offences, to previous driving bans, motoring convictions such as speeding or drink‑driving, or even a history of multiple claims on earlier policies.

Standard insurers often increase premiums significantly for these drivers, or in some cases refuse to offer cover altogether, which is why dedicated convicted‑driver policies exist.

This is because insurers view convicted drivers as presenting a higher likelihood of future claims. This means that premiums are generally higher than those offered to drivers with a clean record.

However, these policies serve an important purpose for drivers.

They provide a route back to legal, fully insured driving and give people the opportunity to demonstrate safer behaviour over time, sometimes involving a form of black box insurance.

With consistent, responsible driving, policyholders can gradually rebuild their reputation with insurers, reduce their risk profile, and eventually work their way back toward more affordable mainstream insurance options.

Can I get car insurance if I have a conviction?

Yes, you can still get car insurance if you have a conviction, but the process can be more challenging – and usually means you need a form of convicted driver insurance.

Many mainstream insurers increase premiums for drivers with motoring offences, and some may decline to offer cover altogether.

However, there are specialist policies specifically designed for people with convictions, whether that’s penalty points, a driving ban, or more serious offences such as drink or drug-driving.

These insurers assess your circumstances in more detail and focus on helping you return to the road legally and safely.

It is important to remember that while premiums are usually higher at first, demonstrating responsible driving over time can gradually reduce costs and improve your eligibility for standard insurance again.

What’s included with convicted driver insurance?

Convicted driver insurance typically includes a wide range of features designed to give drivers comprehensive protection.

Relating to RAC’s Convicted Driver Insurance, policies often provide up to 30 days of cover when driving in the European Union, offering the same level of protection you receive in the UK.

Accessories fitted to your vehicle are usually covered, and emergency medical treatment is included as standard.

Many policies also offer a courtesy car, subject to availability and eligibility, when repairs are carried out by an approved garage.

In most cases, the cover also extends to replacement locks and stolen keys, as well as sound systems and sat‑nav equipment. Window glass damage is typically included as well.

There is also a new‑car replacement benefit if your vehicle is written off shortly after purchase and personal accident cover may be provided along with medical expenses.

Most policies may also include transport home after an accident, child seat cover, and access to a 24/7 claims helpline for support whenever you need it.

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What counts as a conviction to insurers?

When it comes to what insurers view as a conviction, the primary ones are speeding, drink driving, drug driving, and various forms of dangerous driving.

However, this can also include other unspent criminal convictions, even if they aren’t strictly relating to a motoring offence.

How do points on your licence affect your car insurance?

If drivers have accumulated 12 or more penalty points on their driving licence within a three-year period, then they can be disqualified from driving.

During the driving ban, the driver will be unable to take out cover until they have served the ban.

After the driving ban, drivers can apply for car insurance but may have to look at convicted driver insurance and pay a higher premium.

When will a driving conviction stop impacting my car insurance?

Although the exact time can vary depending on a variety of factors, a driving conviction will likely impact your car insurance premium for at least five years.

It is important to remember that once a conviction has been served, there is no legal obligation to tell your insurer about it.