What minimum insurance coverage must I carry on my vehicle in New York?

What the Law Says

New York law mandates minimum automobile liability insurance coverage for all registered vehicles operated on public roads. These requirements are set by the New York Vehicle and Traffic Law and enforced by the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).

Every owner or operator of a motor vehicle registered in New York must maintain liability insurance that meets or exceeds the statutory minimums. This coverage must be continuously in effect while the vehicle is registered — even if it’s not being driven.

The law also requires insurers to electronically report policy status to the DMV. If coverage lapses, the DMV may suspend your vehicle registration and driver license after notice and a 30-day grace period.

New residents have 30 days from establishing residency to obtain New York–compliant insurance. Failure to maintain coverage can result in fines, registration suspension, and mandatory SR-22 filings.

Statutory Text

every owner or operator of a motor vehicle registered in this state shall maintain liability insurance… in the amounts of twenty-five thousand dollars because of bodily injury to or death of one person… fifty thousand dollars because of bodily injury to or death of two or more persons… and ten thousand dollars because of injury to or destruction of property…

— Vehicle and Traffic Law § 311(1)(a) — Minimum financial security requirements

Statutory Text

The commissioner shall suspend the registration of any vehicle… if the insurer reports that the policy has been cancelled or has expired and no replacement policy has been reported within thirty days.

— Vehicle and Traffic Law § 319(3)(a) — Suspension for lapse of insurance

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