Auto Insurance Minimum Requirements
Virginia requires all drivers to carry minimum liability coverage of $50,000 per person and $100,000 per accident for bodily injury, plus $25,000 for property damage — commonly written as 50/100/25. Virginia is a tort (at-fault) state, which determines how fault and claims are handled after a collision. Uninsured motorist coverage is mandatory. Personal Injury Protection (PIP) is not required.
⚡ Recently Changed
Virginia's minimum auto insurance requirements changed on 2025-01-01. See details below.
Important Notes
Virginia completed its planned transition to a 50/100/25 liability standard for all policies issued or renewed on or after January 1, 2025 (under Virginia Code 46.2-472). The old $500 Uninsured Motor Vehicle (UMV) registration fee option was officially repealed on July 1, 2024; auto insurance is now strictly mandatory for vehicle registration.
Uninsured / Underinsured Motorist
Mandatory UM/UIM limits must mirror the updated 50/100/25 liability thresholds.
SR-22 Filings
SR-22 is required for standard high-risk suspensions. An FR-44 filing with double limits is required for DUI convictions.
Alternatives to Insurance
Certificate of self-insurance for qualified high-volume fleet operations.
Fine
$500 uninsured motor vehicle fee
License / Registration
Suspension: Yes
SR-22 Required After
No
What is the minimum car insurance required in Virginia?
Virginia requires minimum liability coverage of $50,000 per person and $100,000 per accident for bodily injury, plus $25,000 for property damage. This is written as 50/100/25 coverage.
Is Virginia a no-fault state?
No, Virginia 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 Virginia?
Yes. Virginia requires uninsured motorist (UM) coverage. Underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage is also required. Mandatory UM/UIM limits must mirror the updated 50/100/25 liability thresholds.
What happens if I drive without insurance in Virginia?
Driving without insurance in Virginia can result in fines of $500 uninsured motor vehicle fee and license/registration suspension.
Do I need an SR-22 in Virginia?
SR-22 filings are used in Virginia 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. SR-22 is required for standard high-risk suspensions. An FR-44 filing with double limits is required for DUI convictions.
What does 50/100/25 mean in Virginia?
These numbers represent your liability limits: $50,000 per person for bodily injury, $100,000 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
Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles
Last verified: 2026-05-27 · Always confirm with official state sources before making coverage decisions.