High-risk auto insurance in Washington. Let's get you covered.
Tickets, an accident, a DUI, a gap in coverage or a suspended license can get you turned down or priced high. We shop carriers that write high-risk drivers, explain your options, and help you keep your record and your rate moving in the right direction.
- Carriers that write high-risk drivers
- Owner, non-owner and broadform policies
- SR-22 filings when the DOL requires one
What high-risk auto insurance covers, in plain English
Coverage, limits and exclusions vary by carrier and policy. Your policy documents are what decide a claim, and we walk you through them before you buy.
Why you're "high-risk"
Insurers price by risk. Tickets, at-fault accidents, a DUI, a coverage lapse or a short driving history can move you out of a standard carrier's rules. It's not a separate type of policy: it's a regular auto policy from a carrier that accepts your record.
Too many tickets can suspend your license
The Department of Licensing suspends your license for 60 days if you get 6 moving violations in 12 months or 7 in 24 months, followed by a year of probation. Avoiding that suspension also protects your insurance options.
Your record follows you for a few years
Most carriers look back at the last 3 to 5 years of tickets and accidents. As violations age off, you may qualify for a standard carrier, so it's worth re-shopping at renewal.
High-risk vs. SR-22
Many high-risk drivers don't need an SR-22. You only need one if the DOL tells you to, usually after a DUI, driving uninsured or a suspension. If you do, we file it with your policy.
Coverage lapses
Even a short gap can raise your price, and if you have an SR-22, the insurer must tell the DOL, which can suspend your license again. Set up automatic payments or call us before a payment is missed.
Non-owner and broadform
If you don't own a car but need to drive legally or file an SR-22, a non-owner or broadform policy covers you as the driver, often for less than an owner policy.
Coverage beyond the minimum
Washington's minimum is 25/50/10 liability. High-risk drivers still choose PIP, underinsured motorist and, on a financed car, collision and comprehensive. We show you the price of each so you can decide.
Is this you?
- Tickets or at-fault accidents
- A DUI or reckless driving
- A lapse in insurance
- A suspended or reinstated license
- New drivers or drivers new to the US
Why Rhino
- Carriers that write high-risk drivers
- Owner, non-owner and broadform policies
- SR-22 filings when the DOL requires one
- Help in English, Russian and Ukrainian
Have this ready
- Driver's license number for each driver
- Dates of tickets, accidents or a DUI in the last 5 years
- The DOL letter, if you have one
- Vehicle details, or tell us you don't own a car
Three steps, one agent
- 1
Tell us what you need
Use the form, call or text. It takes a couple of minutes.
- 2
We shop several carriers
You see real prices side by side, not one company's offer.
- 3
You're covered
Pick a plan and we handle the paperwork, ID cards and certificates.
High-risk auto questions
Can I get car insurance with a bad driving record in Washington?
Usually, yes. Some carriers specialize in high-risk drivers. Prices are higher, but we compare several to find you options.
Does Washington use a points system?
No. The DOL counts moving violations instead: 6 in 12 months or 7 in 24 months leads to a 60-day suspension. Insurers use your record to set your rate.
Do I need an SR-22?
Only if the DOL requires it, usually after a DUI, driving uninsured or a license suspension. Your DOL letter will say so. See our SR-22 page.
How long will I pay high-risk rates?
It depends on the carrier and the violation. Most look back 3 to 5 years, so prices often improve as your record ages. We re-shop at renewal.
I'm new to the US. Can I get insured?
Often, yes. Some carriers accept drivers with a foreign or new Washington license, usually at a higher rate at first. Tell us your situation, and we'll check which carriers will write you.
What happens if I let my insurance lapse?
A lapse can raise your next price, and with an SR-22 the DOL is notified and can suspend your license. Read our non-owner SR-22 guide or license reinstatement guide if you're getting back on the road.
Ready when you are.
Talk to a licensed agent at (800) 700-9181, Mon–Fri 9am–6pm PT.