General information, not legal advice. Your suspension notice, the court and the state agency decide what applies to you. Fees and rules change; confirm with the agency before you pay.

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District of Columbia Minimum Car Insurance and Penalties for Driving Without It

Last checked · Sources listed below

The short answer

The District of Columbia requires liability insurance of at least $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident for injuries, and $10,000 for property damage (25/50/10). Other required coverage: UM 25/50/5.

District of Columbia at a glance

Minimum liability$25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident for injuries, and $10,000 for property damage (25/50/10)
Other required coverageUninsured motorist coverage is required: $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $5,000 for property damage per accident (with a $200 deductible).
First offense for driving uninsuredDriving without insurance carries a civil fine of $500, a license suspension of up to 30 days, or both. The owner of an uninsured registered vehicle also owes $150 per vehicle for 1 to 30 days, then $7 per day, up to $2,500. The Director can require an SR-22 before reinstating a revoked license or registration.
Repeat offenseFor the second and each later offense, the civil fine rises by 50%, and the license suspension can be up to 60 days, or both apply.
Fee to restore after a lapseNot confirmed on a state source; ask the agency

Penalties depend on the court and your record; your citation or notice decides what applies to you.

FAQ

What is the minimum car insurance in the District of Columbia?

The District of Columbia requires liability insurance of at least $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident for injuries, and $10,000 for property damage (25/50/10). Other required coverage: UM 25/50/5.

What happens if you drive without insurance in the District of Columbia?

Driving without insurance carries a civil fine of $500, a license suspension of up to 30 days, or both. The owner of an uninsured registered vehicle also owes $150 per vehicle for 1 to 30 days, then $7 per day, up to $2,500. The Director can require an SR-22 before reinstating a revoked license or registration.

Sources

  1. dmv.dc.gov/1634706
  2. code.dccouncil.gov/31-2406
  3. dmv.dc.gov/reinstatement-application
  4. dmv.dc.gov/driver-license-fees
  5. code.dccouncil.gov/31-2413
  6. code.dccouncil.gov/50-1501.04