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West Virginia Minimum Car Insurance and Penalties for Driving Without It
The short answer
West Virginia requires liability insurance of at least $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident for injuries, and $25,000 for property damage (25/50/25). Other required coverage: UM 25/50/25.
West Virginia at a glance
| Minimum liability | $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident for injuries, and $25,000 for property damage (25/50/25) |
|---|---|
| Other required coverage | Uninsured motorist coverage is required at no less than $25,000 per person, $50,000 per accident and $25,000 for property damage. Underinsured motorist coverage must be offered but is optional. |
| First offense for driving uninsured | Knowingly driving without insurance is a misdemeanor with a fine of $200 to $5,000, 15 days to one year in jail, or both. If you own the vehicle, your license is suspended for 30 days and until you show proof of insurance, and your registration is revoked; paying a $200 penalty fee before the effective date avoids both. |
| Repeat offense | A second or later offense within five years suspends your license for 90 days and revokes the registration until you show proof of insurance, with no $200 option. The criminal range stays $200 to $5,000, 15 days to one year in jail, or both. |
| Fee to restore after a lapse | $50 driver license reinstatement fee and $100 registration reinstatement fee, plus $50 more if a state police order was sent on the plate. For a first offense, paying the $200 penalty fee before the effective date avoids the suspension and these fees. |
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 West Virginia?
West Virginia requires liability insurance of at least $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident for injuries, and $25,000 for property damage (25/50/25). Other required coverage: UM 25/50/25.
What happens if you drive without insurance in West Virginia?
Knowingly driving without insurance is a misdemeanor with a fine of $200 to $5,000, 15 days to one year in jail, or both. If you own the vehicle, your license is suspended for 30 days and until you show proof of insurance, and your registration is revoked; paying a $200 penalty fee before the effective date avoids both.