Changes to Washington State's DUI Laws for 2026: What Drivers Need to Know
How the new law affects SR-22 insurance, what steps you’ll have to take, and how planning ahead can help.
Key Takeaways:
- Washington’s 2026 DUI law expands the lookback period from 10 to 15 years, so older DUIs can now count against you and trigger harsher penalties and SR-22 requirements.
- After a DUI, you must usually keep continuous SR-22 insurance on file with Washington’s Department of Licensing for about three years.
- With stricter repeat-offense rules and expanded ignition interlock monitoring, more Washington drivers may be labeled high-risk and face higher premiums.
DUI laws in Washington are undergoing big changes in 2026. If you’re considered a high-risk driver, these updates could impact both your wallet and your driving record for years to come. Here’s how the new law affects SR-22 insurance, what steps you’ll have to take, and how planning ahead with a licensed Breathe Easy Insurance Solutions agent can help.
This informational blog is not to be used as legal advice. Always consult a qualified DUI attorney to assist with any legal questions you may have. If you have immediate questions about SR-22 insurance, call a Breathe Easy licensed insurance agent at (833) 786-0237.
What’s New in Washington’s DUI Law for 2026?
The new legislation enacts several significant changes to Washington State DUI laws. Here are the updates that matter most for high-risk drivers and anyone required to hold an SR-22 certificate:
- The state will lengthen the DUI lookback period from 10 years to 15 years, which means old offenses count against you even longer.
- Alternative sentencing and expanded deferred prosecution options might apply for some, if you meet eligibility requirements.
- Mandatory ignition interlock requirements and compliance will expand, with device records tied to your license status.
- Courts and the Department of Licensing will have a bigger window to classify you under repeat or felony DUI offenses, which could mean tougher penalties and longer insurance obligations for mistakes from over a decade ago.
For more insights into how Washington HB 1493 is impacting DUI charges and penalties, read this blog on our partner site, DUI.org.
What Is SR-22 Insurance and Why Does It Matter?
SR-22 isn’t a different insurance policy; it's paperwork your insurer files with the state to show you’re financially responsible after serious driving violations, like a DUI, reckless driving, or driving uninsured. If required, the Washington Department of Licensing won’t restore your license without it, and any lapse can put you back at square one.
Here are the key facts you need to know:
- After a DUI, you may be required to keep SR-22 insurance steadily in place for at least three years from the day your license is reinstated, without missing a payment or dropping coverage.
- Every time your SR-22 policy lapses, the state gets notified and you risk having your license suspended again.
- SR-22 filings are required for both vehicle owner and non-owner drivers in Washington.
How Will the 2026 Law Changes Affect SR-22 Insurance?
Longer Lookback Means More People Need SR-22s
With the DUI lookback period increasing from 10 to 15 years, even older DUIs can bring you under stricter repeat offense rules.
Rate Impacts: High-Risk Means High Premiums
A DUI conviction is almost guaranteed to raise your insurance rates. If you are required to file an SR-22, you will be viewed by insurance companies as high-risk.
One of the biggest changes you’ll notice after a DUI conviction is an increase in your car insurance premium. Premiums can more than double, with increases sometimes even tripling. This typically happens at first renewal after a DUI shows up on your driving record.
The more offenses on your record, and the more recent they are, the higher the rates, and the longer you’ll see high premiums stick around.
What You Can Do and How Breathe Easy Can Help
If you’re now labeled high-risk because of Washington’s new 2026 law, or you’re already carrying an SR-22, don’t go it alone.
- Keep up with every payment and renewal to avoid stretching your high-risk period even longer.
- Contact Breathe Easy Insurance Solutions at (833) 786-0237 for help shopping SR-22 rates, preventing lapses, and planning to get your license and insurance status back on track.
- Learn about how a safe driving record, renewed policy, or even just asking about discounts, can help protect you from unplanned costs and reduce long-term headaches.
Need Answers Now?
You have support on your side. Insurance requirements change quickly, and the Washington DUI law changes in 2026 make the impact more serious for high-risk drivers than ever. For free quotes, expert advice, and step-by-step help with SR-22 insurance in Washington, speak to a licensed Breathe Easy agent at (833) 786-0237 today.
FAQs: Washington State DUI SR-22 Changes
How will Washington’s 2026 DUI law affect my record?
Starting in 2026, Washington’s DUI lookback period extends from 10 to 15 years, so older DUIs can count against you and may lead to harsher penalties or even a felony charge for repeat offenses.
How long do you have to keep SR-22 insurance after a DUI in Washington?
In most DUI-related cases, you must maintain continuous SR-22 insurance for at least three years from the date you are eligible to reinstate your license, and a lapse can reset the clock or trigger another suspension.
Will my car insurance rates go up if I need an SR-22?
Yes, being labeled high-risk after a DUI and needing an SR-22 usually results in your insurance carrier raising your rates, and those higher rates can last for years, especially if you have multiple or recent offenses.
Who can help you understand SR-22 requirements under the new law?
You can speak with a Breathe Easy Insurance Solutions licensed agent at (833) 786-0237 for help comparing SR-22 quotes, avoiding coverage lapses, and understanding how Washington’s 2026 DUI law affects your insurance and license.