Auto Insurance Minimum Requirements
New York requires all drivers to carry minimum liability coverage of $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident for bodily injury, plus $10,000 for property damage — commonly written as 25/50/10. New York is a no-fault state, which determines how fault and claims are handled after a collision. Uninsured motorist coverage is mandatory. Personal Injury Protection (PIP) is required at a minimum of $50,000.
Important Notes
New York requires NY State-issued auto policies to register a vehicle; out-of-state policies are not accepted. The state enforces distinct limits for fatal incidents: a minimum of $50,000 per person and $100,000 per accident is required for wrongful death claims. Requires $50,000 in No-Fault PIP coverage.
Uninsured / Underinsured Motorist
Mandatory UM coverage applies exclusively to bodily injury claims at a minimum limit of 25/50.
Alternatives to Insurance
No public cash/bond alternatives exist for standard personal vehicle registrations.
Fine
$150–$1,500
License / Registration
Suspension: Yes
SR-22 Required After
No
What is the minimum car insurance required in New York?
New York requires minimum liability coverage of $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident for bodily injury, plus $10,000 for property damage. This is written as 25/50/10 coverage.
Is New York a no-fault state?
Yes, New York is a no-fault state. Drivers file injury claims with their own insurance regardless of who caused the accident. PIP coverage pays for medical expenses up to policy limits.
Is uninsured motorist coverage required in New York?
Yes. New York requires uninsured motorist (UM) coverage. Mandatory UM coverage applies exclusively to bodily injury claims at a minimum limit of 25/50.
What happens if I drive without insurance in New York?
Driving without insurance in New York can result in fines of $150–$1,500 and license/registration suspension.
Do I need an SR-22 in New York?
SR-22 filings are not commonly required in New York unless specifically ordered by a court.
What does 25/50/10 mean in New York?
These numbers represent your liability limits: $25,000 per person for bodily injury, $50,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $10,000 for property damage. These are the legal minimums — purchasing higher limits provides greater financial protection.
Official Source
New York Department of Motor Vehicles
Last verified: 2026-05-27 · Always confirm with official state sources before making coverage decisions.