In Virginia, demonstrating proof of car insurance is a prerequisite for vehicle registration and obtaining license plates or decals. This requirement extends to antique motor vehicles as well. It’s crucial to ensure your insurance carrier is authorized to operate within Virginia to meet these stipulations.
Virginia mandates minimum car insurance coverage limits as outlined in the Code of Virginia § 46.2-472. These regulations are in place to protect drivers and ensure financial responsibility in the event of an accident.
How Household Drivers Impact Your VA Car Insurance Premiums
Insurance companies in Virginia are permitted to consider the driving history of any individual of driving age residing within the policyholder’s household when calculating premiums. This means that adding a newly licensed driver to your household could potentially affect your car insurance rates. For specific concerns about how a new driver might influence your policy, consulting with your insurance agent is advisable.
Alternative VA Car Insurance Options for Business Vehicles
For business vehicle owners, Virginia offers alternative insurance solutions such as self-insurance or surety bonds. These options provide flexibility for businesses while still adhering to the state’s insurance requirements.
Virginia DMV’s Electronic Insurance Coverage Verification
The Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), in collaboration with the insurance industry, manages an electronic system to verify the liability insurance status of vehicles registered in Virginia. If a vehicle’s insurance cannot be verified electronically, the owner will be required to submit policy information directly to the DMV for manual verification. More detailed information is available at Verification of Insurance Coverage.
The Importance of Carrying Proof of VA Car Insurance
It is mandatory for drivers in Virginia to always have proof of their car insurance readily available in their vehicle. This proof may be requested during traffic stops or in the event of an accident.
Penalties for Non-Compliance with VA Car Insurance Laws
Virginia enforces strict penalties for driving without the required car insurance. If your insurance coverage lapses or is canceled during your vehicle’s registration period, you are legally obligated to take one of the following actions immediately:
- Reinstate your car insurance coverage.
- Deactivate your license plates through the DMV.
- Permanently surrender your license plates to the DMV.
Owners of uninsured vehicles face suspension of both their driving privileges and vehicle registration. To have these privileges reinstated, you must fulfill the following requirements:
- Pay a non-compliance fee of $600.
- File a Financial Responsibility Insurance Certificate (SR-22) with the DMV, which must be maintained for three years.
- Pay a reinstatement fee, if applicable.
Virginia also offers a Payment Plan Program for eligible vehicle owners to manage the payment of the statutory fee over time.
Virginia Minimum Liability Car Insurance Coverage Limits
| Liability Insurance Coverage Requirements |
|---|
| Policies effective Jan. 1, 2022 through December 31, 2024 |
| Policies effective on or after Jan. 1, 2025 |
For further information regarding car insurance in Virginia, please consult with your insurance provider or visit the Virginia DMV website.
