We earn commissions from brands listed on this site, which influences how listings are presented.

Direct Auto Insurance Review 2025

Direct Auto
Visit Site
Direct Auto
Direct Auto
Hollie Shuttlewood
Sep. 10, 2025
3 min read
Hollie Shuttlewood
Direct Auto Summary
Direct Auto Insurance offers a budget-friendly, flexible solution for drivers—especially those who might be denied coverage elsewhere. From customizable payment plans to SR-22 filings and a broad presence in the Southeast U.S., it’s ideal if you're navigating coverage with a less-than-perfect driving record. However, expect limited availability in some states and fewer digital features compared to major insurers.

Pros

  • Accepts high-risk drivers and SR-22 filings
  • Flexible payment options and frequent discounts
  • In-person service at 400+ stores

Cons

  • Coverage not available nationwide
  • Below-average customer satisfaction scores
  • Doesn’t offer additional coverage options

Direct Auto at a glance

8.4
Editorial score

Insurance Features

Limited coverage options; lacks rideshare & gap insurance.
8.0

Discounts Available

Offers 10+ discounts incl. military, good student, safe driver.
9.0

Customer Service

Customer reviews report frequent service and claims issues.
7.0

Online Experience

User-friendly site; online quotes and payment, but no live chat.
8.0

Direct Insurer?

Yes – policies are sold directly, not through agents.
10.0

Types of auto Insurance offered by Direct Auto

Direct Auto provides all the standard coverage types you'd expect:

  • Liability insurance: Meets state minimum requirements for bodily injury and property damage.

  • Collision & comprehensive: Protects your vehicle from accidents, theft, weather events, and more.

  • Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist: Adds a safety net when the other driver can’t pay.

  • Medical payments (MedPay) & PIP: Covers medical costs regardless of fault, depending on your state.

  • Rental reimbursement & towing: Optional add-ons for convenience.

They also provide SR-22 insurance, which is essential for high-risk drivers needing proof of financial responsibility.

Additional features

  • Flexible Payment Plans: Choose from monthly, bi-weekly, or even weekly schedules.

  • Multilingual Agents: Available in English and Spanish.

  • Mobile App: Manage your policy, pay bills, and show digital ID cards.

  • Discounts: Up to 25% off for safe driving, good students, homeowners, and military members.

Best suited for

Direct Auto is a solid pick if:

  • You need SR-22 insurance or have a spotty driving record.

  • You want to pay in smaller, frequent installments.

  • You prefer face-to-face service at physical branches.

It may not be the best choice if you're looking for premium digital features or nationwide coverage.

How to apply

Getting a quote is simple:

  1. Visit directauto.com or a local office.

  2. Enter basic details (car, driver history, location).

  3. Choose a policy, tailor coverage, and set up a payment plan.

  4. Submit your documents and make the first payment.

You can also apply via phone or mobile app.

Filing a claim

Claims can be filed in three main ways:

  • Online: Through the claims portal.

  • Mobile App: Snap photos and file reports instantly.

  • Phone: Call 1-800-403-1077 (available 24/7).

Direct Auto’s claims process is straightforward, though some customers note slower resolutions than top-tier insurers

Frequently asked questions about car Insurance with Direct Auto

Does Direct Auto insure drivers with DUIs?
Yes. Direct Auto specializes in high-risk drivers, including those with DUIs.

Is Direct Auto owned by Allstate?
Yes. Direct Auto is part of National General, which is owned by Allstate.

Can I get a quote without a credit check?
In most states, Direct Auto uses credit scores. Some states limit this—check local rules.

Can I get same-day coverage?
Yes. You can buy a policy and get proof of insurance on the same day.

How do I show proof of insurance?
Use the mobile app, download from your account, or request a physical card.

What happens if I miss a payment?
You may get a grace period, but late fees or cancellation can apply. Call customer service to avoid lapses.

Does Direct Auto cover rental cars?
Only if you’ve added rental reimbursement or have coverage that extends to rentals. Check your policy.

How do I reinstate a canceled policy?
Call customer service. You may need to pay the balance and possible fees to reinstate coverage.

Is Direct Auto Insurance legit and financially stable?
Yes, Direct Auto is a legitimate and regulated insurer. It's a part of National General Insurance, which is a subsidiary of Allstate, one of the largest insurance providers in the U.S. This gives it financial backing and regulatory credibility.

How long does it take to file and process a claim?
Claims can be submitted 24/7 online, through the mobile app, or by calling 1-800-403-1077. Simple claims may be resolved in a few business days, while more complicated ones may take longer. Some customers report slower-than-average turnaround times.

Does Direct Auto Insurance check your credit score?
Yes, in most states, Direct Auto may use a credit-based insurance score to help determine your rate. However, some states restrict or prohibit this practice. If you're concerned about your credit, Direct Auto is known to still offer competitive pricing for drivers with lower scores.

Contact details

  • Website: https://www.directauto.com

  • Phone (Customer Service): 1-877-463-4732

  • Phone (Claims): 1-800-403-1077 (24/7)

  • Email: service@directauto.com

  • Hours: Mon–Fri 8:00 AM–8:00 PM CST, Sat 10:00 AM–4:00 PM CST

  • Address: Direct Auto Insurance, 1281 Murfreesboro Pike, Nashville, TN 37217

Customer insights

While Direct Auto earns praise for accessibility and flexible payment options, it's not without criticism. The Better Business Bureau gives them an A+ rating, yet customer reviews vary—many complaints relate to billing misunderstandings or slower-than-expected claims processing.

On Trustpilot, the reviews are mixed, highlighting good service at local branches but occasional issues with call centers and online account access.

Summary

If you're looking for affordable car insurance with flexible payments and need help with SR-22s or past driving issues, Direct Auto is worth considering. They strike a unique balance between accessibility and simplicity, especially for underserved driver profiles.

However, if tech-savvy tools or nationwide coverage are priorities, you might want to explore other major insurers.

Methodology

This review is based on information from Direct Auto's official website and reputable third-party sources, ensuring an accurate and unbiased evaluation.

Note: AI was used in the creation of this content, along with human validation and proofreading.

Hollie Shuttlewood
Written by
Hollie Shuttlewood
Hollie Shuttlewood is an insurance expert at BestMoney.com, specializing in car insurance. She enjoys helping readers make sense of the options on the market, offering clear insights to support smarter financial choices.
Top Car Insurance
NerdWallet
NerdWallet
Read Review|Visit Site
Read all reviews

Must Reads

6 Tips for Finding the Right Car Insurance for You
Sep 25, 2025
We Hope You’ll Never Need to File a Claim, but If You Do
Sep 25, 2025
Read all articles