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California Auto Insurance Requirements: Minimum Coverage (2025)

February 10, 2026·5 min read·Auto Insurance

California's Minimum Insurance Requirements

California Vehicle Code §16029 requires all drivers to carry:

CoverageMinimum

|---|---|

Bodily Injury (per person)$15,000
Bodily Injury (per accident)$30,000
Property Damage$5,000

This is known as 15/30/5 liability coverage.

Penalties for Driving Uninsured

  • First offense: Fine of $100-$200 + penalty assessments (total ~$450)
  • Second offense: Fine of $200-$500 + penalty assessments (total ~$1,100)
  • Vehicle impound: Up to 30 days
  • License suspension: Until you provide proof of insurance (SR-22)
  • Why Minimums Aren't Enough

    Consider this scenario: You cause an accident. The other driver's medical bills are $50,000 and their car has $15,000 in damage.

    With minimum coverage (15/30/5):

  • You're covered for $30,000 medical + $5,000 property = $35,000
  • The total damage is $65,000
  • You owe $30,000 out of pocket
  • The other driver can sue you, garnish your wages, and place liens on your assets.

    What We Recommend

    At minimum, consider 100/300/50 liability. The price difference between minimums and these higher limits is often just $10-$30/month — but the protection is dramatically better.

    Get the Right Coverage

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