Auto Insurance Minimum Requirements
California requires all drivers to carry minimum liability coverage of $30,000 per person and $60,000 per accident for bodily injury, plus $15,000 for property damage — commonly written as 30/60/15. California is a tort (at-fault) state, which determines how fault and claims are handled after a collision. Uninsured motorist coverage is not required by law but is strongly recommended. Personal Injury Protection (PIP) is not required.
⚡ Recently Changed
California's minimum auto insurance requirements changed on 2025-01-01. See details below.
Important Notes
Minimum limits increased from 15/30/5 to 30/60/15 effective January 1, 2025 under Senate Bill 1107. Limits will further increase to 50/100/25 in 2035. Offers a low-income California Low Cost Automobile Insurance program with lower limits.
Uninsured / Underinsured Motorist
Must be offered by insurers; policyholders can opt out by signing a waiver.
SR-22 Filings
Required for 3 years following a DUI conviction, reckless driving, or driving without insurance during a collision.
Alternatives to Insurance
A cash deposit of $35,000 made to the DMV, a $35,000 surety bond, or a DMV self-insurance certificate.
Fine
$100–$200 base (plus penalty assessments)
License / Registration
Suspension: Yes (1 year)
SR-22 Required After
Yes
What is the minimum car insurance required in California?
California requires minimum liability coverage of $30,000 per person and $60,000 per accident for bodily injury, plus $15,000 for property damage. This is written as 30/60/15 coverage.
Is California a no-fault state?
No, California is a tort (at-fault) state. The driver responsible for the accident is liable for damages, and claims are filed against their insurance.
Is uninsured motorist coverage required in California?
Uninsured motorist coverage is not required in California, but it is strongly recommended given the proportion of uninsured drivers nationwide.
What happens if I drive without insurance in California?
Driving without insurance in California can result in fines of $100–$200 base (plus penalty assessments) and license/registration suspension (Yes (1 year)). An SR-22 certificate is typically required to reinstate your driving privileges.
Do I need an SR-22 in California?
SR-22 filings are used in California for high-risk drivers following events like DUI convictions, serious violations, or driving without insurance. An SR-22 is a certificate of financial responsibility filed by your insurer — it is not a type of insurance policy. Required for 3 years following a DUI conviction, reckless driving, or driving without insurance during a collision.
What does 30/60/15 mean in California?
These numbers represent your liability limits: $30,000 per person for bodily injury, $60,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $15,000 for property damage. These are the legal minimums — purchasing higher limits provides greater financial protection.
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Official Source
California Department of Insurance
More California Resources
Data Methodology
DataTactic researchers verify auto insurance minimum requirements directly against official government sources — California Department of Insurance publications, state statutes, and agency websites. Each data point is cross-referenced against primary sources before publication. Records are reviewed and updated when laws or requirements change.
Last verified: 2026-05-27 · Always confirm with official state sources before making coverage decisions.