Compare DR61 Car Insurance – Cover for Convicted Drivers

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Convictions Car Insurance Comparison

  • Are you looking for cheap car insurance due to a DR61 offence?
  • Look at various insurance policies from reliable providers.
  • Find flexible payment options for drivers with convictions.

What is a DR61 Conviction?

A DR61 conviction occurs when a driver does not provide a specimen for testing. This can happen even when the driver is not behind the wheel at that moment.

This can happen if you do not give a blood sample or a urine sample during an investigation. It may occur even if you were not driving but are still thought to be over the legal limit.

Penalty for DR61:

Conviction Code Offence Penalty Points Licence Endorsement Duration
DR61 Refusing to provide specimen without incapacity (non-driving) 10 4 years

Fact: A DR61 endorsement will remain on your driving licence for 4 years from the date of conviction.

Legal Consequences of a DR61 Conviction

A DR61 conviction has serious outcomes. It can impact your driving future very much.

  • Driving Ban: It could happen, but it is not guaranteed.
  • Fine: You might have to pay a fine of up to £2,500.
  • Penalty Points: You could get 10 penalty points on your licence.
  • Community Order: This might be a choice instead of jail for serious situations.
Penalty Details
Driving Ban Possible, depends on case
Fine Up to £2,500
Licence Endorsement 4 years

If a driver has a real incapacity, like a health problem, they may not face punishment. However, they must provide proof of this.

How a DR61 Conviction Affects Car Insurance

A DR61 conviction can make it tough to get affordable insurance policies. Insurance companies view you as a higher risk.

Driver Type Estimated Annual Premium (£)
Standard Driver £500 – £800
DR61 Convicted Driver £1,500 – £2,500

Key Impacts:

  • A few big insurance companies provide driver insurance.
  • The insurance premium costs more due to increased risk.
  • Several insurance companies present third party insurance or options for third party fire and theft.

Choosing a specialist insurance provider can help you find better coverage.

How a DR61 Conviction Affects Car Insurance

Finding the Right Insurance Policy After a DR61 Conviction

To get the best deal on car insurance after a DR61 conviction, you should:

  • Work with professionals who know about motoring offences.
  • Use an insurance comparison service to get multiple quotes.
  • Be honest about your date of conviction and driving licence endorsement.
  • Find out about the different levels of cover that you can choose from.

Choose the plan that fits your needs and budget the best.

Types of Car Insurance Available for DR61 Convicted Drivers

Options for insurance coverage after a DR61 conviction are:

  • Third Party: This type helps pay for damages to other cars and property.
  • Third Party, Fire and Theft: This plan offers protection from theft and fire.
  • Fully Comprehensive: This option also protects your own car.
Level of Cover What It Covers
Third Party Others' vehicles and property
Third Party, Fire and Theft Others' vehicles, theft, and fire
Fully Comprehensive Own vehicle, theft, fire, third party damage

Fact: Sometimes, full coverage insurance is cheaper than third party insurance for drink drivers who have a DR61 endorsement.

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How to Lower Your Car Insurance Premiums After a DR61 Conviction

You can lower the cost of insurance after a DR61 by:

  • Complete a driving rehabilitation course
  • Choose a safer car
  • Pay for your insurance yearly, not monthly
  • Reduce the miles you drive each year
  • Install security features in your car, such as an alarm or immobiliser

Some insurance companies have flexible payment options. This makes it easier for people to manage their premiums.

Declaring a DR61 Conviction to Insurers

Declaring a DR61 Conviction to Insurers

You need to tell your insurer if you have a DR61 conviction.

  • Declaration Period: You have to wait 5 years because of the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act.
  • Licence Endorsement Duration: This lasts for 4 years.
  • Failure to Declare: Being dishonest can cancel your car insurance policy.

Fact: Always share your conviction code and any endorsements when you apply for insurance. This is important, even if you think they are small.

How a DR61 Conviction Affects Travel and Employment Opportunities

A DR61 conviction will change your car insurance. It can also impact other important areas of your life.

Travel Restrictions:

  • Some countries, such as the USA, Canada, and Australia, may not let people with recent driving problems enter or get a visa.
  • You may need to provide any criminal record, even if it is not considered serious in the UK.
  • Always check the embassy rules before planning your trip abroad.

Employment Challenges:

  • Getting jobs that involve driving, such as delivery, taxi, or logistics work, may be more difficult.
  • Many companies in finance, healthcare, and government require a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check, which can reveal a DR61 offence.
  • Some employers may be understanding if you talk about the offence honestly and if enough time has gone by.

Insurance for Work Vehicles:

  • If you have a DR61 conviction, your employer may find it hard to get you insured for work driving.
  • You might need special driver insurance for driving related to your job.

Why DR61 Convictions Are Treated Seriously by Insurance Providers

A DR61 conviction takes place if a person does not give a blood sample or urine specimen when it is required. This is not the same as being caught for drink driving. Still, insurance providers consider it a serious issue.

Key Reasons for Strict Treatment:

  • High Risk: If a driver does not cooperate, it might mean they want to avoid getting noticed. This action can put them at a high risk for future problems.
  • Driving Offence: A DR61 is a serious driving offence and not just a minor paperwork mistake.
  • Charge of a Vehicle: Even if you were not driving, being "in charge of a vehicle" and suspected of drinking is a worry for insurance companies.
  • Careless Driving Links: Ignoring tests could connect to a past of careless driving or reckless actions.
  • Mobile Phone Offences: Drivers caught using a phone while behind the wheel can get similar "higher risk" ratings. This shows that related offences can impact insurance too.

Impact on Insurance Cover:

  • Some companies give high risk insurance policies only after a DR61.
  • You may need to pick just third party or affordable insurance cover, which usually costs more.
  • Full insurance cover for theft or damage could be limited.

How Long Does a DR61 Affect Insurance Costs?

Conviction Type Licence Endorsement Duration Time Insurance Costs Are Affected Chance of Getting Affordable Insurance
DR61 4 years 5 years Easier after 5 years
DR60 4 years 5 years Easier after 5 years
DR50 4 years 5 years Easier after 5 years
DR40 4 years 5 years Easier after 5 years

Having a clean driving record can help reduce your car insurance premiums. This is especially true when a conviction is removed from your record.

FAQs About DR61 Drink Driver Car Insurance

Yes, you will need convicted driver insurance from specialist insurance providers.

It goes on for 4 years. But, you must let the insurers know for 5 years.

A driving ban can vary for each person. It depends on the situation and whether there was any medical incapacity.

Completing a driving rehabilitation course can help reduce your insurance costs sometimes.

Third party fire and theft insurance or fully comprehensive insurance plans are often the best choices. The right one for you will depend on how much coverage you need.

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Page last updated on: 24/04/2025

Page reviewed by: Shay Ramani

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