Auto Insurance Minimum Requirements
New Hampshire does not impose compulsory minimum liability insurance requirements, making it one of the few states where drivers are not legally required to carry auto insurance. However, drivers remain financially responsible for any damages they cause. New Hampshire is a tort (at-fault) state. Uninsured motorist coverage is not required by law but is strongly recommended. Personal Injury Protection (PIP) is not required.
Important Notes
New Hampshire does not broadly require liability insurance for most drivers, but they must prove financial responsibility after certain dynamic incidents or convictions. If a driver elects to buy auto insurance, the policy must meet a minimum framework of 25/50/25 liability, along with $1,000 MedPay and 25/50 UM/UIM coverage.
Uninsured / Underinsured Motorist
If a driver voluntarily purchases an auto policy, it must include UM/UIM coverage at a 25/50 minimum level.
SR-22 Filings
Required for a minimum of 3 years following convictions for DWI, leaving the scene, or an at-fault uninsured accident.
Alternatives to Insurance
Drivers must demonstrate personal financial responsibility to pay for damages after an incident if they do not carry insurance.
Fine
Up to $1,000
License / Registration
Suspension: Yes
SR-22 Required After
No
What is the minimum car insurance required in New Hampshire?
New Hampshire does not require minimum liability insurance by law, but drivers remain financially responsible for damages they cause. It is strongly recommended to carry coverage.
Is New Hampshire a no-fault state?
No, New Hampshire 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 New Hampshire?
Uninsured motorist coverage is not required in New Hampshire, but it is strongly recommended given the proportion of uninsured drivers nationwide.
What happens if I drive without insurance in New Hampshire?
Driving without insurance in New Hampshire can result in fines of Up to $1,000 and license/registration suspension.
Do I need an SR-22 in New Hampshire?
SR-22 filings are used in New Hampshire 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 a minimum of 3 years following convictions for DWI, leaving the scene, or an at-fault uninsured accident.
What does liability coverage mean in New Hampshire?
New Hampshire does not mandate specific liability limits. If you carry liability coverage, the limits represent dollars per person for bodily injury, dollars per accident for bodily injury, and dollars for property damage.
Official Source
New Hampshire Division of Motor Vehicles
Last verified: 2026-05-27 · Always confirm with official state sources before making coverage decisions.