OVI in Ohio: Who Will Insure You
After an Ohio OVI, the BMV wants proof of insurance through the end of your suspension. Some companies won't write you, and some will. Start here.
Jay Parrack
WV & OH ONLY
WV & OH ONLY
"I got an OVI in Ohio. Who will insure me now, and what proof does the BMV need before I can drive again?"
This is a hard stretch, and nobody here is going to judge you.
The short answer
Yes, you can generally still get car insurance after an OVI in Ohio, though many companies won't offer it and the ones that do will charge more. To reinstate, the Ohio BMV lists proof of insurance covering through the end of your suspension, plus a fee. We can check the companies that write drivers after an OVI.
Who will write me after an OVI?
It'd be a relief to tell you this will be simple and inexpensive. What I can promise is we'll do all we can to find your best rate.
Each company has its own view of an OVI. Some say no outright, and others have programs for it. We can find out who'll take you without you calling around.
Let's be honest, I'm hoping this ends with a phone call. Ask for DeAnna, and tell her what the court and the BMV have told you so far.
What does the BMV require?
From the Ohio BMV's suspension page:
| Suspension | Length | To reinstate |
|---|---|---|
| First offense OVI (court conviction) | Set by the court | Fee, plus proof of insurance through the length of the suspension |
| Administrative suspension, positive test | 90 days to 5 years | Fee, plus current proof of insurance through the end of the suspension |
| Administrative suspension, refused test | 1 to 5 years | Fee, plus current proof of insurance through the end of the suspension |
Repeat offenses and special cases can differ. Your court order controls a lot of this, so read it and ask your attorney.
Do I need an SR-22 for an OVI?
The BMV's OVI page lists proof of insurance and doesn't mention an SR-22. But you could also have a suspension of another kind on your record, like non-compliance or 12 points, and those do call for one. Check your whole record with the BMV before you assume. If you need the filing, we can handle it.
What counts as proof?
Ask the BMV what it'll accept for your case, and make sure your name is on the policy as an insured. A policy on your spouse's car, with you left off, may not help you.
Will the court ask about insurance too?
It can. Ohio Revised Code 4511.19 says offenders sentenced under that section must give the court proof of financial responsibility. Your attorney can tell you how that applies to you.
Can my company drop me?
It can happen. Ohio law lists loss of driving privileges through suspension as a reason a company may cancel, and companies can decide not to renew at the end of a term. Check your mail, and don't assume you're still covered.
How much will it cost?
I can't tell you until we run it. It depends on the company, the rest of your record, your car and where you live. Anyone who gives you a number before looking is guessing.
How much is the reinstatement fee?
The BMV shows your amount at its online reinstatement page. Its fee amnesty program doesn't apply to alcohol or drug offenses.
What should I do right now?
1. Get your court order and BMV notice together.
2. Check everything the BMV requires for your case.
3. Call before your suspension ends, so your proof is ready.
WV & OH ONLY
Next in the series: Part 39, DUI in West Virginia: Who Will Insure You
Ready for real numbers?
Tell me what's going on and I'll find out what each company will offer you. West Virginia and Ohio drivers only.
