Car insurance requirements by state
Every state sets its own minimum car insurance. Here's what each state in our guides requires, with a full guide for each one covering penalties, proof of insurance and SR-22 rules.
Updated October 7, 2026
How to read liability limits
Liability minimums are written as three numbers in thousands of dollars. 25/50/20 means your policy pays up to $25,000 for injuries to one person, $50,000 for all injuries in one accident, and $20,000 for damage to other people's property. Liability pays for harm you cause to others. It doesn't pay to fix your own car.
State minimums at a glance
| State | Liability minimum | Also required |
|---|---|---|
| Arizona | 25/50/15 | None beyond liability |
| California | 30/60/15 | None beyond liability |
| Florida | $10,000 property damage only | $10,000 personal injury protection (PIP) |
| Georgia | 25/50/25 | None beyond liability |
| Illinois | 25/50/20 | Uninsured motorist bodily injury, 25/50 |
| Nevada | 25/50/20 | None beyond liability |
| North Carolina | 50/100/50 | Uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage |
| Ohio | 25/50/25 | None beyond liability |
| Pennsylvania | 15/30/5 | $5,000 first-party medical benefits |
| Texas | 30/60/25 | None beyond liability |
Minimums checked against each state's insurance department or DMV in October 2026. Laws change, so confirm with your state or a licensed agent before you buy. Select a state for its full guide and sources.
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The minimum isn't the whole picture
State minimums are the least you can legally carry. A serious crash can cost far more than a minimum policy pays, and you may be personally responsible for the rest. Many drivers pick higher limits such as 100/300/100, and add collision and comprehensive if their car would be expensive to replace. Read full coverage vs. liability to decide what fits your car and budget.
Uninsured motorist coverage is worth a look in every state, even where it isn't required. It pays for your injuries when the at-fault driver has no insurance or too little. See how uninsured motorist coverage works.
Moving to a new state?
When you move, you'll usually need a policy that meets your new state's rules and registration there within a set number of days. Our guide to changing car insurance when you move walks through the order to do things in.
Frequently asked questions
What does 25/50/20 mean?
It's shorthand for liability limits in thousands of dollars. The first number is the most your policy pays for injuries to one person, the second is the most it pays for injuries in one accident, and the third is the most it pays for property damage. So 25/50/20 means $25,000 per person, $50,000 per accident and $20,000 for property damage.
Which state has the highest minimum limits?
Of the states in our table, North Carolina has the highest: 50/100/50 since July 1, 2025, plus required uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage.
Does every state require bodily injury liability?
No. Florida requires personal injury protection and property damage liability, but bodily injury liability isn't required for most drivers. Most other states do require it.
Is the state minimum enough coverage?
It's what the law requires, not what fully protects you. If a crash costs more than your limits, you can be personally responsible for the difference. Many drivers choose higher limits, and lenders usually require collision and comprehensive on financed or leased cars.
My state isn't listed. Where do I find its rules?
Your state's insurance department or DMV publishes the current minimums. A licensed agent can also confirm them when you request quotes. We're adding more state guides over time.
This page is general information, not legal or insurance advice. Requirements, penalties and prices vary by state, insurer and policy.