Guide
Minimum auto insurance requirements in our ten states
Every state on this site requires drivers to carry liability insurance. The minimums differ, and a few states require extra coverages.
Required limits by state
| State | Liability minimum (BI per person / per accident / PD) | Other required coverage |
|---|---|---|
| Washington | 25/50/10 | None beyond liability |
| Oregon | 25/50/20 | PIP $15,000; uninsured motorist 25/50 |
| Idaho | 25/50/15 | None beyond liability |
| Nevada | 25/50/20 | None beyond liability |
| Arkansas | 25/50/25 | None beyond liability |
| Arizona | 25/50/15 | None beyond liability |
| South Dakota | 25/50/25 | Uninsured/underinsured motorist 25/50 |
| Pennsylvania | 15/30/5 | First-party medical benefits $5,000 |
| Texas | 30/60/25 | None beyond liability (PIP and UM must be rejected in writing) |
| Indiana | 25/50/25 | None beyond liability |
Source: NAIC, Compulsory Motor Vehicle Insurance model law chart (state statutes), reviewed against state insurance department guidance. Confirm current rules with your state insurance department.
Beyond the minimum
Minimum limits satisfy the law, not your financial exposure. A crash that injures several people or totals a new vehicle can exceed them quickly. Common choices are 50/100/50, 100/300/100, or higher, with an umbrella policy for households with significant assets.
Proof of insurance
Keep proof of insurance in the car or on your phone where allowed. Driving without required coverage can lead to fines, license or registration suspension, and a requirement to file proof of financial responsibility.
Uninsured motorist and medical coverages
Even where they are optional, uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage protect you and your passengers when the at-fault driver cannot pay. Medical payments or personal injury protection help with medical bills regardless of fault. Several of our states require insurers to offer these coverages and to get a written rejection if you decline.
Request an auto quote or read about full coverage auto insurance.
Frequently asked questions
What does 25/50/25 mean?
$25,000 bodily injury per person, $50,000 bodily injury per accident, and $25,000 property damage per accident.
Is the minimum enough?
For most households it is not. Medical bills and vehicle repair costs can exceed minimum limits quickly, leaving you personally responsible for the rest.
Do I need uninsured motorist coverage?
It is required in some states and offered in others, often with a written rejection required to decline it. It protects you when the at-fault driver lacks enough insurance.
More guides
- Bundling auto and home insurance
- Minimum auto insurance requirements in our ten states
- What full coverage auto insurance really means
- Homeowners insurance coverage explained
- Personal umbrella insurance over your auto and home
- How to lower your auto and home insurance premiums
Last updated October 15, 2026 · How we research