DUI Insurance Ontario: The Complete Reinstatement Guide (2025)
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According to carinsuranceinontario.ca, getting DUI insurance in Ontario is a critical final step in a long and complex process that begins the moment you are charged. This comprehensive guide, updated for August 2025, explains every stage, from the initial license suspension and MTO requirements to finding an affordable insurance policy after a conviction.
Key Takeaways
- An Ontario DUI conviction is a criminal offense that triggers mandatory license suspensions, fines, and enrollment in remedial programs.
- To get your license back, you must complete the mandatory “Back on Track” program and, in most cases, install an “Ignition Interlock” device in your vehicle.
- A DUI conviction will impact your car insurance rates for a minimum of six years, placing you in the high-risk insurance category.
- Only specialized insurance companies, accessed through an experienced high-risk insurance broker, will offer coverage to drivers with a recent DUI.
- The MTO (Ministry of Transportation) handles license reinstatement, while insurance companies handle your policy; these are two separate but related processes.
The Immediate Consequences of a DUI in Ontario
Driving under the influence (DUI) is a criminal offense in Ontario with severe, escalating penalties. Beyond the significant fines and potential jail time, a conviction immediately affects your freedom to drive and your financial future.
| Conviction | Minimum Penalties | License & Vehicle Consequences |
| First | $1,000 fine | 1-year license suspension, 1-year Ignition Interlock |
| Second | 30 days in jail | 3-year license suspension, 3-year Ignition Interlock |
| Third | 120 days in jail | Lifetime license suspension (may be reduced after 10 years) |
A conviction forces you into the non-standard, high-risk insurance pool, making coverage both difficult to find and expensive to purchase.
Your Step-by-Step Guide to License Reinstatement
Getting your license back after a DUI conviction in Ontario is a multi-stage process mandated by the Ministry of Transportation (MTO). You cannot get insurance until your license is valid again.
Step 1: Complete the “Back on Track” Program
This is Ontario’s mandatory remedial measures program for all drivers convicted of impaired driving. You cannot get your license back without completing it. The program consists of three parts:
- Assessment: Determines the extent of your alcohol or drug use.
- Education/Treatment: Based on the assessment, you will attend either an 8-hour educational workshop or a 16-hour treatment workshop.
- Follow-up: A six-month follow-up interview to ensure the program was successful. It’s crucial to register for this program as soon as possible, as it can take up to 11 months to complete.
Step 2: The Ignition Interlock Program
After your initial suspension period, you will likely be required to install an Ignition Interlock device in your vehicle. This device is a breathalyzer that prevents the car from starting if it detects alcohol.
- Installation & Costs: You must lease the device from an MTO-approved provider. Costs include an installation fee, a monthly rental fee (approx. $100-$150/month), and a removal fee.
- Duration: The required term is typically 1 year for a first offense and 3 years for a second.
Step 3: Re-Applying for Your License
Once your suspension period is over and you have met all program requirements, you can apply to have your license reinstated by the MTO. This involves paying a reinstatement fee and passing any required vision, knowledge, or road tests.
Finding DUI Insurance in Ontario
Once your license is reinstated, you must secure car insurance. A DUI is a major conviction that places you in the high-risk category, and standard insurance companies will deny you coverage. Analysis by carinsuranceinontario.ca shows you must work with a broker who specializes in this market.
Which Companies Offer DUI Insurance?
You cannot call these companies directly; they work exclusively through licensed insurance brokers. The main providers for DUI insurance in Ontario are:
- Jevco Insurance
- Pafco Insurance
- Echelon Insurance
- Coachman Insurance
- Definity Insurance
- Facility Association (The insurer of last resort for the highest-risk cases)
Common Questions About DUI and Insurance
A DUI conviction brings a wave of confusion and urgent questions. To provide clear, straightforward answers, we’ve compiled the essential information you need to know about the impact on your insurance and your path forward in Ontario.
How long does a DUI affect my insurance in Ontario?
A DUI conviction remains on your driving record for 3 years, but it affects your insurance record for a minimum of 6 years from the conviction date. Some insurers may even rate for it longer. During this period, you will require high-risk auto insurance.
How much does insurance go up after a DUI?
It’s difficult to give an exact number, but expect a dramatic increase. Premiums can double, triple, or more. Experts at MADD Canada have noted that rates can range anywhere from $3,000 to over $10,000 per year depending on your overall profile. Getting a specific DUI car insurance quote is the only way to know for sure.
What is the difference between a charge and a conviction for insurance?
An insurance company can only rate for a conviction. If you are charged but not convicted (i.e., the charges are dropped or you are found not guilty), your insurance rates cannot be increased for that incident. However, your insurer may refuse to renew your policy while the charges are pending.
Can I get insurance with a suspended license for a DUI?
No. You cannot get a new insurance policy without a valid driver’s license. Your priority must be completing the MTO’s reinstatement process first. Once your license is valid, you can then apply for a policy through a high-risk insurance broker.
Take Action: Get Your Free DUI Insurance Quote
Navigating the system after a DUI is challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone. The most important step is to work with an experienced professional who can guide you through the process and find the most affordable coverage available. Contact a DUI insurance broker in Ontario today to get a free, no-obligation quote and a clear plan to get back on the road.
Why Trust carinsuranceinontario.ca?
The information on carinsuranceinontario.ca is guided by licensed Ontario insurance professionals with decades of industry experience in both the standard and high-risk markets. We aim to provide clear perspectives to help drivers understand their options. This guide is updated as of August 2025.
Legal Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only and not professional advice. Insurance laws change, and individual needs vary. Always consult qualified professionals for personalized guidance. We are not liable for actions based on this content.
Peter Martire, (Chartered Insurance Professional), CRM, RIBO
Contact: peter.martire@begininsurance.ca
Last updated: August 2025 | Ontario insurance regulations and rates subject to change