Field report · VA

Car insurance in Virginia

Virginia is a at-fault state with a minimum liability requirement of50/100/25. Here's what that means, what it costs, and what to check before you buy.

Minimum coverage50/100/25
Fault systemAt-fault
Uninsured motoristRequired
RegulatorVirginia Department of Motor Vehicles (Virginia DMV)

What the minimums actually mean

$50,000 per injured person, $100,000 total per accident for injuries, and $25,000 for property damage, effective for policies issued or renewed on or after January 1, 2025 (up from 30/60/20).

UM/UIM is required, defaulting to match the new liability limits (50/100/25), though it may be lowered or rejected in writing. Major change: Virginia's historic option to pay an annual 'uninsured motorist fee' instead of buying insurance at all was eliminated effective July 1, 2024 - New Hampshire is now the only state allowing anything similar.

Estimated cost

Illustrative estimate: roughly $500-$700/year for minimum coverage, though some sources range considerably wider depending on whether pre- or post-2025 limits are reflected.

Why this is a range, not a quote

Rates depend heavily on your driving record, exact ZIP code, vehicle, and the insurer's own pricing model — two neighbors can legally pay very different amounts for the same coverage. Use ourcost calculator for a figure based on your own details, orget matched with carriers directly.

SR-22 & high-risk filings

A DUI/DWI in Virginia typically requires an FR-44 (stricter than a standard SR-22, requiring proof at double the state minimums), while reckless driving or other reinstatements may use a standard SR-22.

Local conditions worth knowing

Northern Virginia's DC-metro highways (I-95, the Beltway) are some of the most congested in the US, though Virginia's statewide traffic fatality rate is somewhat better than the national average.

Frequently asked

What is the minimum car insurance requirement in Virginia?
Virginia requires liability limits of at least 50/100/25. $50,000 per injured person, $100,000 total per accident for injuries, and $25,000 for property damage, effective for policies issued or renewed on or after January 1, 2025 (up from 30/60/20).
Is Virginia an at-fault or no-fault state?
Virginia is an at-fault at-fault state for car insurance claims.
Do I need an SR-22 in Virginia?
A DUI/DWI in Virginia typically requires an FR-44 (stricter than a standard SR-22, requiring proof at double the state minimums), while reckless driving or other reinstatements may use a standard SR-22.
Is uninsured motorist coverage required in Virginia?
UM/UIM is required, defaulting to match the new liability limits (50/100/25), though it may be lowered or rejected in writing. Major change: Virginia's historic option to pay an annual 'uninsured motorist fee' instead of buying insurance at all was eliminated effective July 1, 2024 - New Hampshire is now the only state allowing anything similar.

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