What minimum auto insurance must I carry in California?

What the Law Says

California law sets mandatory minimum liability coverage limits for drivers. These amounts are the lowest you may legally carry — and they apply regardless of fault or vehicle type.

The California Insurance Code defines the minimum financial responsibility required to operate a motor vehicle on public roads. This is not optional: if you drive without meeting these requirements, your license and registration can be suspended, and you may face fines.

The law allows certain alternatives to traditional insurance — like a cash deposit with the DMV or a surety bond — but most drivers satisfy the requirement by purchasing an auto liability policy from a licensed insurer.

You must carry proof of insurance (e.g., an insurance card or digital copy) while driving and present it to law enforcement upon request. Failure to do so within 30 days of a traffic stop or accident can result in penalties.

Statutory Text

A motor vehicle liability insurance policy shall provide coverage in the amounts of fifteen thousand dollars ($15,000) because of bodily injury to or death of one person in any one accident, thirty thousand dollars ($30,000) because of bodily injury to or death of two or more persons in any one accident, and five thousand dollars ($5,000) because of injury to or destruction of property of others in any one accident.

— California Insurance Code, § 11580.1b — Minimum liability coverage

What to Do

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