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New Jersey Auto Insurance Requirements & Rates

New Jersey requires 35/70/25 liability coverage and is a no-fault state.

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New Jersey at a Glance

35/70/25

Minimum liability limits, in thousands of dollars (per person / per accident / property)

No-fault

Each driver's own policy pays their injuries first, whoever caused the crash

Required

PIP and Uninsured motorist coverage must be on every policy

Source: state DMV, insurance department and statute records, verified July 2026

State Requirements

New Jersey operates as a choice no-fault state, meaning drivers select between Traditional Standard (tort) or Basic Policy (no-fault) coverage at purchase. All drivers must carry proof of insurance and file it electronically through the Motor Vehicle Commission's system. The state mandates personal injury protection (PIP) regardless of which liability option you choose, setting New Jersey apart from most tort-based states.

Bodily Injury Liability

Covers injuries you cause to others in an at-fault accident. Unlike pure no-fault states, New Jersey drivers with Traditional Standard policies retain the right to sue for pain and suffering, making higher liability limits critical for asset protection.

Property Damage Liability

Covers damage you cause to other vehicles or property.

Personal Injury Protection (PIP)

Covers medical expenses, lost wages, and essential services for you and your passengers regardless of fault. New Jersey's PIP is mandatory even if you select the Traditional Standard tort option, though you can opt for lower coverage or higher deductibles if you carry qualifying health insurance. This dual-layer approach—PIP plus liability—makes New Jersey premiums higher than many comparable tort states.

Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage

Protects you when hit by a driver with insufficient or no insurance. New Jersey requires insurers to offer this coverage at limits matching your bodily injury liability, though you can decline it by signing a waiver.

Cost Overview

about $131/mo

Average car insurance spending in New Jersey

Rate data: NAIC Auto Insurance Database, 2023

What Affects Your Rate

  • Vehicle theft rates: New Jersey ranks in the top 10 nationally for vehicle theft claims per capita, with Honda Accord, Honda Civic, and Ford F-150 models most frequently targeted, raising comprehensive coverage costs statewide.
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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive in New Jersey with out-of-state insurance?

Yes, if you're visiting or passing through with valid insurance from another state. If you establish New Jersey residency, you must obtain New Jersey-compliant coverage within 60 days and register your vehicle with the Motor Vehicle Commission. Out-of-state policies rarely meet New Jersey's PIP and uninsured motorist requirements.

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