Yes, in the vast majority of states, you are required to show proof of auto insurance to complete your vehicle registration. This is a standard procedure at your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or equivalent agency. The core reason is to ensure that every registered vehicle on the road meets the state's minimum financial responsibility laws, which are designed to cover costs in the event of an accident.
The specific type of proof required is typically a document from your insurance company, such as an insurance card or a more formal proof of insurance certificate. This document must show your policy is active and meets your state's minimum liability coverage limits. Liability insurance covers bodily injury and property damage that you may cause to others.
It's important to note that requirements can vary significantly by state. For example, New Hampshire and Virginia are exceptions with unique financial responsibility laws, but even they have strict requirements you must fulfill instead of traditional insurance. The table below provides a sample of minimum liability requirements across several states, but you must check with your local DMV for exact figures.
| State | Minimum Bodily Injury Liability (per person / per accident) | Minimum Property Damage Liability |
|---|
| California | $15,000 / $30,000 | $5,000 |
| Texas | $30,000 / $60,000 | $25,000 |
| Florida* | $10,000 / $20,000 | $10,000 |
| New York | $25,000 / $50,000 | $10,000 |
| Illinois | $25,000 / $50,000 | $20,000 |
| Arizona | $25,000 / $50,000 | $15,000 |
| Michigan** | $50,000 / $100,000 | $10,000 |
| *Florida requires PIP (Personal Injury Protection) instead of BI liability. | | |
| **Michigan has unique no-fault insurance laws with additional requirements. | | |
Before heading to the DMV, always contact your insurance provider to obtain the correct proof of insurance document. Electronic proof on a smartphone is accepted in many states, but having a physical copy is a safe backup. Attempting to register a car without the required proof will result in your application being denied.
