Minimum Auto Insurance Coverage Required in Your State

Most states in the U.S. require that all drivers meet a minimum level of liability coverage. While minimum car insurance, each state has its types and levels of coverage that it requires.

If you were to drive without car insurance or auto insurance levels that do not meet your state’s requirements, you might have to pay fines, attend driver safety training, and even face jail time. 

Most people do not find the topic of auto insurance coverage all that exciting, but it’s important to know what your state requires so you’re not in danger of carrying too little auto insurance coverage, especially if you are not able to carry full coverage auto insurance. 

What is my state’s minimum coverage requirement?

All states except New Hampshire and Virginia require bodily injury liability coverage and property damage liability insurance. But many states also require additional coverage, such as medical payments (MedPay), personal injury protection (PIP), and uninsured or underinsured motorist insurance.

The table below shows each state’s requirements for auto insurance in the U.S. The numbers represent coverage requirements per $1,000. For example, a 25/50/25 insurance requirement would equate to $25,000 in bodily injury liability coverage per person, $50,000 in bodily injury liability per accident, and $25,000 in property damage liability.

As you can see, the minimum insurance requirement in California of 15/30/5 is relatively low compared to other states. Additionally, minimum insurance requirements in California do not call for coverage like PIP or MedPay. 

While auto insurance providers in your state are likely to recommend coverage that meets or exceeds your state’s requirements, your responsibility is to ensure you carry proper auto insurance coverage.

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What are the states that don’t require auto insurance?

Virginia and New Hampshire are the only states that don’t require car insurance coverage. Most drivers in these states choose to carry auto insurance, but the states allow for insurance alternatives.

In New Hampshire, drivers can purchase car insurance, get financial responsibility approval through the Department of Motor Vehicles, or provide a self-insurance certificate. Similarly, Virginia drivers can pay a $500 fee or provide specific proof of financial responsibility. 

How much car insurance do I need?

The amount of auto insurance you need depends on where you live. Because each state sets its own rules for car insurance, you’ll have to become familiar with what your state requires to ensure you carry proper coverage.

Do I need more than my state’s minimum requirements? While states require liability coverage, this coverage does not protect your vehicle if you’re in an accident. Additionally, things can occur outside of an accident that causes damage to a car or makes it impossible to drive.

Collision coverage will help if you’re in an accident and your vehicle is damaged. Collision insurance will also cover repairs to your car if you’re at fault in an accident. In addition, comprehensive coverage is an option to help cover non-accident-related damage, such as damage from inclement weather, animals, theft, or vandalism.

You can combine collision and comprehensive auto insurance coverage into what’s known as a full coverage policy. This policy will also include your mandatory liability coverage and anything else your state requires.

While full coverage policies can sometimes cost thousands more per year than a liability-only policy, this coverage provides drivers with protection and peace of mind.

How can I find cheap car insurance that meets my state’s requirements?

Finding cheap state minimum car insurance requires research. The best way to find affordable coverage in your state is to shop online and compare multiple auto insurance quotes from insurance providers in your area. 

Comparing insurance quotes online allows you to see how much you would pay for your state’s minimum requirements with several companies. Doing so could help you save hundreds of dollars annually on coverage.

While it is tempting to purchase your state’s minimum required coverage for the cheapest auto insurance rates, you should consider purchasing additional coverage to ensure you’re adequately protected.

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State Requirements for Minimum Coverage: The Bottom Line

If you drive, you need car insurance. First, familiarize yourself with your state’s requirements. Next, shop online to find the best deals on auto insurance in your area.

Consider purchasing a full coverage policy, which offers both collision and comprehensive coverage, to ensure you are adequately protected. The rates may seem steep initially, but if you’re ever in an accident, you’ll be happy you had additional coverage to help.

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