Yes, you absolutely need car insurance to register a vehicle in California. It's not just a recommendation; it's a strict legal requirement enforced by the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Before you can complete your registration, you must provide proof of financial responsibility, which almost always means a valid auto insurance policy from a company licensed to do business in the state.
The minimum coverage you must carry is defined by state law. California operates under a "fault" system, meaning the driver who causes an accident is responsible for the damages. The minimum liability insurance requirements are designed to cover those costs. The mandatory minimums are often referred to as 15/30/5 coverage:
- $15,000 for injury/death to one person.
- $30,000 for injury/death to more than one person.
- $5,000 for damage to property.
You'll need to have your insurance company send an electronic verification to the DMV or provide you with a paper proof-of-insurance card. The DMV's system verifies your policy electronically. Driving without insurance can lead to severe penalties, including fines, license suspension, and impoundment of your vehicle. While these minimums meet the legal requirement, many drivers choose higher limits for better protection.
| Requirement | Minimum Coverage Amount | What It Covers |
|---|
| Bodily Injury Liability (per person) | $15,000 | Another person's injuries if you're at fault in an accident. |
| Bodily Injury Liability (per accident) | $30,000 | Total injuries for all people in an accident you cause. |
| Property Damage Liability | $5,000 | Damage you cause to someone else's car or property. |
