The General is one of the most recognized nonstandard auto insurers in the United States, part of the American Family group and known for taking on high-risk drivers that standard carriers turn away. It writes coverage for drivers with SR-22 requirements, prior lapses, accidents, or lower credit, so here is an independent look at The General auto insurance, its estimated rates, and how it compares in 2026.
The General, formally Permanent General Assurance Corporation, has written nonstandard auto insurance since 1963 and is now part of the American Family Insurance group. It sells directly online and by phone, and is one of the most heavily advertised nonstandard carriers, focused on drivers who have been declined by standard-market insurers because of DUIs, multiple accidents, lower credit, or coverage lapses. The General is available in most U.S. states, can file SR-22 certificates, and offers same-day coverage. It carries an A (Excellent) financial strength rating from AM Best through its underwriting company.
Independent market estimates based on NAIC rate filings and state insurance department data. Not provided by or endorsed by The General. Actual rates vary by state, ZIP, and individual profile.
| Driver profile | Est. annual premium | vs. market avg. | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Clean record, 30–45 | ~$1,880/yr | Above avg. | Nonstandard base runs high even clean |
| Single accident (3 yrs) | ~$3,000/yr | Above avg. | Accepts multiple-incident profiles |
| DUI on record | ~$3,300/yr | Near non-std. avg. | Core segment for The General |
| Young driver (18–24) | ~$3,600/yr | Above avg. | High-risk age surcharge applies |
| Senior driver (65+) | ~$1,980/yr | Near non-std. avg. | Same-day activation available |
| Lower credit tier | ~$3,700+/yr | Above avg. | Most expensive profile |
ⓘ Source: NAIC filings and state regulatory data. Not quotes from The General. Verify pricing directly with the carrier or a licensed agent.
The General's clearest advantage is access. It accepts driver profiles most carriers will not touch, files SR-22 certificates, and activates coverage quickly, which fills a real gap for drivers with no standard-market options. The trade-off is price and transparency. Nonstandard premiums run well above the standard market even for a clean record, The General is not rated by J.D. Power in this segment so independent service data is thin, and claims reviews are mixed. Its heavy advertising can create the impression that it is uniquely positioned, when in practice it competes directly with Bristol West, Dairyland, Infinity, and Gainsco for the same drivers at similar price points. That is exactly why it is worth comparing against other nonstandard carriers before you commit, and why the longer-term goal should be a clean record that lets you return to the standard market.
The General is a legitimate nonstandard insurer with solid financial backing and wide availability, and it is a reasonable option for drivers who need SR-22 filings or have been declined elsewhere. It is less compelling if you can qualify in the standard market, where rates are far lower. Comparing The General against other carriers in your area is the fastest way to see where it lands for your profile.
Disclaimer: RateWire is an independent lead generation and comparison service and is not affiliated with, authorized by, endorsed by, or in any way officially connected to The General. All carrier names and trademarks are the property of their respective owners used solely for informational and comparison purposes. Rate figures are independent market estimates from publicly available NAIC and state regulatory data — not quotes from The General. By submitting your ZIP code, you may be connected with licensed insurance agents or carriers who will provide actual quotes based on your individual profile. Always verify coverage terms and pricing directly with the carrier or a licensed agent before purchasing.