Auto Insurance Minimum Requirements
Ohio requires all drivers to carry minimum liability coverage of $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident for bodily injury, plus $25,000 for property damage — commonly written as 25/50/25. Ohio 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.
Uninsured / Underinsured Motorist
Must be offered by the insurer; rejection can be executed via written notification.
SR-22 Filings
Required for a 3-year duration following a random verification failure or license suspension.
Alternatives to Insurance
A cash or government bond deposit of $30,000 filed with the BMV, or a dedicated financial surety certificate.
Fine
Up to $1,000
License / Registration
Suspension: Yes (90 days)
SR-22 Required After
Yes
What is the minimum car insurance required in Ohio?
Ohio requires minimum liability coverage of $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident for bodily injury, plus $25,000 for property damage. This is written as 25/50/25 coverage.
Is Ohio a no-fault state?
No, Ohio 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 Ohio?
Uninsured motorist coverage is not required in Ohio, but it is strongly recommended given the proportion of uninsured drivers nationwide.
What happens if I drive without insurance in Ohio?
Driving without insurance in Ohio can result in fines of Up to $1,000 and license/registration suspension (Yes (90 days)). An SR-22 certificate is typically required to reinstate your driving privileges.
Do I need an SR-22 in Ohio?
SR-22 filings are used in Ohio 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 3-year duration following a random verification failure or license suspension.
What does 25/50/25 mean in Ohio?
These numbers represent your liability limits: $25,000 per person for bodily injury, $50,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $25,000 for property damage. These are the legal minimums — purchasing higher limits provides greater financial protection.
Official Source
Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles
Last verified: 2026-05-27 · Always confirm with official state sources before making coverage decisions.