Minimum Car Insurance: Requirements by State
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What is Minimum Car Insurance?
Minimum car insurance is the legal minimum coverage required by your state to drive. Most states require liability insurance with specific limits for bodily injury and property damage. This coverage pays for injuries and damage you cause to others—not your own vehicle.
💡 Understanding Liability Limits (Example: 25/50/25)
- $25,000: Max per person for bodily injury
- $50,000: Max per accident for all bodily injuries
- $25,000: Max for property damage per accident
Minimum Insurance Requirements by State
| State | Liability Limits | Avg. Monthly Cost |
|---|---|---|
| California | 15/30/5 | $45 |
| Texas | 30/60/25 | $42 |
| Florida | 10/20/10 + PIP | $55 |
| New York | 25/50/10 | $65 |
| Pennsylvania | 15/30/5 | $38 |
| Ohio | 25/50/25 | $32 |
| Michigan | 50/100/10 + PIP | $85 |
| Georgia | 25/50/25 | $40 |
| North Carolina | 30/60/25 | $35 |
| Arizona | 25/50/15 | $38 |
Should You Get Minimum Coverage?
✅ Pros of Minimum Coverage
- Lowest possible premium
- Meets legal requirements
- Good for older/low-value cars
- Makes sense if you rarely drive
⚠️ Cons of Minimum Coverage
- Doesn't cover your own car
- May not cover full accident costs
- Personal assets at risk if sued
- No coverage for theft/weather
Cheapest Minimum Coverage Insurers
GEICO
- ✅ From $29/month
- ✅ Fast online quotes
- ✅ Good customer service
Progressive
- ✅ From $32/month
- ✅ Name Your Price®
- ✅ Accepts high-risk drivers
USAA
- ✅ From $25/month
- ✅ Military only
- ✅ Lowest rates available
Minimum Insurance FAQs
What is minimum car insurance?
Minimum car insurance is the lowest amount of coverage legally required by your state. It typically includes liability insurance that covers bodily injury and property damage you cause to others in an accident.
How much is minimum car insurance?
Minimum car insurance costs an average of $29-60 per month, depending on your state and driving record. States with higher minimum requirements like Michigan and Louisiana tend to have higher costs.
What if I cause more damage than my limits cover?
You're personally responsible for any costs exceeding your policy limits. This means your savings, wages, or even home could be at risk in a lawsuit. Consider higher limits or umbrella insurance if you have assets to protect.
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