Frequently Asked Questions

We Are Here to Help - Search Our FAQs

Navigate

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I keep the car insurance I have from my previous state of residence?

No. If you want to be able to register your vehicle in the state of California, you must have it covered by a state-approved CA car insurance agency. Being caught without car insurance will result in hefty fines, possible vehicle impoundment and car registration suspension.

For more information: California Car Insurance Regulations

Do I need to cancel my insurance if I am moving to another state?

Yes. If you are moving from California to another state, you will have to purchase car insurance in the new state and cancel your CA policy. You must also make sure that there are no gaps in your insurance coverage.

For more information:California Car Insurance Regulations

How can I avoid a license suspension if I choose not to insure my vehicle?

You cannot drive a vehicle in California without car insurance. In order to avoid the license suspension associated with not being covered, the CA DMV allows you to return your car registration and license plates if you are planning on canceling your California car insurance policy.

For more information:California Car Insurance Regulations

If I have been in an accident, what property damage do I have to report?

In the state of California, any accident that results in property damage exceeding $750 must be reported to local authorities. As much detail as possible should be provided in the report, including vehicle information and the parts of the cars that took damage.

For more information: California Car Insurance Regulations

If I live outside of the state for half the year, am I still required to have car insurance?

Yes. California car insurance is required of every CA resident. It does not matter how much time you spend out-of-state. As long as you are considered a California resident, you must have state-approved coverage.

For more information: California Car Insurance Regulations

If I own multiple vehicles, am I required to have them all insured?

Financial responsibility (commonly known as insurance) is required on all vehicles operated or parked on California roadways. Therefore, if you own multiple vehicles, all of them must have auto insurance coverage. However, many CA insurance companies offer discounts for insuring more than one vehicle on the same insurance policy. You are eligible for discounts if all your vehicles are insured by the same company, are under the same name and are currently used by the policyholder or family members.

Keep in mind that terms and benefits offered by insurance companies vary, so make sure to check with your car insurance provider first.

For more information: California Car Insurance Regulations

What is the minimum liability insurance coverage?

California requires its drivers to have the following minimum liability insurance coverage:

  • $5,000 for property damage
  • $30,000 for bodily injury or death of multiple people
  • $15,000 for injury or death to one individual

For more information: California Car Insurance Regulations

What proof of insurance can I provide when registering my car?

Presenting your insurance card from your insurance company will suffice as proof. However, it is essential that your card includes information, such as:

  • Your vehicle s model
  • Your vehicle s year
  • Your vehicle s make
  • Your name (and anybody else who is under your policy plan)
  • Your insurance policy term s expiration date

For more information:California Car Insurance Regulations

What type of car insurance am I required to have?

The state of California makes it mandatory to hold liability car insurance for personal injury and property damage. However, for extra coverage and protection, you can opt to obtain the following types of additional insurance:

  • Accident coverage
  • Rent a car coverage
  • Comprehensive coverage
  • Medical coverage
  • Funeral-related coverage
  • Towing coverage
  • Uninsured coverage
  • Underinsured coverage

For more information: California Car Insurance Regulations

What will happen if I fail to get or keep car insurance?

If you are caught without car insurance in California, the consequences are as follows:

  • $100 to $200 for your first offense
  • $200 to $500 for each ensuing offense within three years of your first charge
  • Possible impoundment of your vehicle
  • Possible suspension of your car registration if:
    • It has been 45 days or more since you notified the DMV of your canceled insurance and still have not purchased new coverage.
    • You gave false evidence of auto insurance.
    • You did not provide your vehicle insurance information to the DMV within 30 days of registering your car or title transfer.

For more information:California Car Insurance Regulations

Which types of vehicles need to be insured?

Most vehicles in California must be insured. These include but are not limited to:

  • Private passenger vehicles
  • Commercial vehicles
  • Trucks
  • Vans
  • Motorcycles

For more information: California Car Insurance Regulations