Virginia’s auto insurance rules changed in two important ways over the past few years. If you have not looked at your policy in a while, it is worth a second look.
Insurance is now required to register a vehicle
Virginia used to let drivers pay a $500 uninsured motor vehicle fee instead of buying insurance. That option ended on July 1, 2024. To register a vehicle or renew its registration, you now need to carry at least the state’s minimum liability coverage.
According to the Virginia DMV, uninsured vehicle owners will have their driving and vehicle registration privileges suspended. Getting them back requires a $600 non-compliance fee and an SR-22 insurance certificate filed with DMV for three years, plus any reinstatement fee that applies.
The minimum limits went up
For policies that took effect on or after January 1, 2025, the Virginia minimums are:
- $50,000 for bodily injury to or death of one person
- $100,000 for bodily injury to or death of two or more people
- $25,000 for property damage
These replaced the old limits of $30,000, $60,000 and $20,000.
Minimum coverage is a floor
The state minimum tells you what you must carry to drive legally. It does not tell you what you need. A serious accident can cost more than these limits, and you could be responsible for the difference.
Liability coverage also pays for harm you cause to other people. It does not repair your own car. That is the job of collision and comprehensive coverage, which your lender or leasing company may require if you are still paying off the vehicle.
Questions to ask at your next renewal
- Do my liability limits match what I own and earn?
- Do I have collision and comprehensive coverage, and what are my deductibles?
- What are my uninsured and underinsured motorist limits?
- Have I told my agent about new drivers, new vehicles or a change in how I use my car?
If you are not sure how your current policy compares, bring your declarations page to our office and we will go through it with you.
