California Auto Insurance: Rates, Requirements & Coverage
California requires 30/60/15 liability coverage and is an at-fault state.
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California at a Glance
30/60/15
Minimum liability limits, in thousands of dollars (per person / per accident / property)
At-fault
The at-fault driver's insurance pays for the damage they cause
Optional
PIP and uninsured motorist coverage are not required by law
Source: state DMV, insurance department and statute records, verified July 2026
State Requirements
California operates as a tort state, meaning at-fault drivers are financially responsible for damages they cause. All drivers must carry proof of financial responsibility, which typically means maintaining liability insurance. The California Department of Insurance requires insurers to verify coverage electronically, and law enforcement can access this database during traffic stops.
Bodily Injury Liability
Property Damage Liability
Uninsured Motorist Coverage
Cost Overview
about $102/mo
Average car insurance spending in California
Rate data: NAIC Auto Insurance Database, 2023
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Compare Auto Rates for FreeFrequently Asked Questions
Is California a no-fault state for car insurance?
No, California is a tort state, meaning the at-fault driver is financially responsible for injuries and damage they cause. Injured parties can file claims against the at-fault driver's liability insurance and sue for damages exceeding policy limits. This makes carrying liability coverage above the state minimum critical — you remain personally liable for any amount your insurance doesn't cover.
Does California require SR-22 insurance?
California requires an SR-22 certificate of financial responsibility after DUI convictions, driving without insurance, multiple moving violations, or license suspensions. The SR-22 is not separate insurance but a form your insurer files with the DMV proving you carry at least minimum coverage. You must maintain the SR-22 for three years without any coverage lapses, or your license will be automatically suspended and the three-year period restarts.
Coverage Types
Liability Insurance
The foundation of California's mandatory coverage, liability pays for injuries and property damage you cause to others. State minimums of 15/30/5 are inadequate for most accidents — a single serious injury or multi-vehicle collision easily exceeds these limits.
Full Coverage
Combines liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage to protect both your legal obligations and your own vehicle. Lenders require full coverage on financed vehicles, but it's valuable protection even on paid-off cars worth over $5,000.
Comprehensive Coverage
Pays for damage to your vehicle from non-collision events: theft, vandalism, fire, weather, falling objects, and animal strikes. Covers total losses from wildfire, a growing California risk.
Collision Coverage
Repairs or replaces your vehicle after accidents, regardless of fault. Covers single-vehicle crashes, multi-car accidents where you're at fault, and accidents with uninsured drivers when combined with uninsured motorist property damage.
Uninsured Motorist Coverage
Covers your medical expenses, lost wages, and vehicle damage when an at-fault driver has no insurance or flees the scene. California insurers must offer this coverage; you can only decline it by signing a written rejection form.
SR-22 Insurance
An SR-22 is not separate insurance but a certificate of financial responsibility filed by your insurer with the California DMV. Required after DUI convictions, multiple violations, driving without insurance, or license suspensions.