Virginia Minimum Car Insurance (2025): Required Limits & Smart Upgrades
Starting January 1, 2025, Virginia raises its minimum liability insurance requirements to 50/100/25. This marks the biggest update in a decade and closes the old uninsured-motorist loophole. Understanding these new limits helps you stay compliant and avoid steep out-of-pocket risks.
This 2025 guide covers minimum liability details, exclusions, UM/UIM protection, smart upgrades, cost-saving discounts, and renewal tips to stay protected affordably.
Required Limits (Effective 2025)
According to Virginia Code §46.2-472, all policies issued or renewed on or after January 1, 2025 must include:
| Coverage Type | Minimum Limit |
|---|---|
| Bodily Injury (per person) | $50,000 |
| Bodily Injury (per accident) | $100,000 |
| Property Damage (per accident) | $25,000 |
- Applies to all registered vehicles statewide.
- Lapse = $600 non-compliance fee + SR-22 filing required.
- The $500 uninsured motorist fee was repealed July 1 2024.
What’s Not Covered
- Own vehicle damage — add collision/comprehensive coverage.
- Medical expenses — add MedPay or UM/UIM coverage.
- Legal liability above limits — you pay the excess personally.
- Leased or financed vehicles often require full coverage.
UM/UIM Coverage (Uninsured / Underinsured Motorist)
- Protects you when struck by drivers with no or insufficient insurance.
- Not mandatory but highly recommended; limits must match your liability minimums.
- Virginia’s at-fault system makes UM/UIM vital for financial safety.
Recommended Coverage Levels
- Upgrade to 100/300/100 for broader liability protection.
- Add collision + comprehensive for financed or newer vehicles.
- Match UM/UIM to your liability limits.
- Consider an umbrella policy if you own property or high-value assets.
Discount Strategies
- Enroll in safe-driver or telematics programs.
- Bundle auto and home insurance for up to 20 % off.
- Raise deductibles (from $500 → $1,000) to reduce premiums 10–15 %.
- Ask for multi-car or loyalty discounts.
Renewal Checklist
- Confirm new limits apply to renewals after Jan 1 2025.
- Verify with your insurer and lender (if financed).
- Keep proof of insurance for DMV spot checks.
- Prevent coverage gaps to avoid $600 fines and SR-22 filings.
Frequently Asked Questions
When do the new limits apply?
Policies renewing on or after January 1 2025 must include at least 50/100/25 coverage.
Does minimum liability cover my own car?
No. It only covers damages you cause to others. Collision/comprehensive protect your own vehicle.
Is UM/UIM required?
No, but it’s highly recommended. It shields you against uninsured or underinsured drivers.
What happens if I drive uninsured?
You’ll face registration suspension, a $600 fine, and mandatory SR-22 filing for three years.
How can I control premiums under the new rules?
Bundle policies, use telematics discounts, and compare quotes yearly to offset higher limits.
Key Takeaways
- 2025 minimums increase to 50/100/25 — enforcement at renewal.
- Base liability excludes your car and medical costs.
- UM/UIM coverage is essential under Virginia’s at-fault system.
- Upgrade to 100/300/100 for peace of mind.
- Use discounts and higher deductibles to stay budget-friendly.
References