Short answer: Ohio requires 25/50/25 liability: $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident for injuries, and $25,000 for property damage, or another approved form of financial responsibility, such as a bond. Uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage is optional in Ohio. Driving without proof of coverage can lead to license suspension and reinstatement fees.
The minimum
The Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) requires every driver and vehicle owner to maintain financial responsibility of at least:
| Coverage | Minimum |
|---|---|
| Bodily injury liability | $25,000 per person / $50,000 per accident |
| Property damage liability | $25,000 per accident |
The rules are in Ohio Revised Code Chapter 4509. Most drivers satisfy the requirement with an auto policy. Alternatives include a surety bond or a deposit with the state, which few people use.
UM and UIM are optional
Ohio doesn't require insurers to include or offer uninsured motorist (UM) or underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage, though most do sell it. That makes Ohio different from many neighboring states. If an uninsured or underinsured driver injures you and you don't have UM/UIM, you may be left with your health insurance and a lawsuit against a driver who may not be able to pay.
How Ohio checks for insurance
Ohio checks financial responsibility in several ways:
- Traffic stops. Officers can ask for proof.
- Crashes. Drivers involved in reportable crashes must show proof.
- Random verification. The BMV can select vehicle owners at random and require proof.
- Court cases. Certain convictions trigger proof requirements.
Ohio accepts electronic proof on a phone.
Penalties
If you can't show proof when required, the BMV can suspend your license and registration. Reinstatement can require fees and, in some cases, filing an SR-22 certificate from your insurer for a period of years. Penalties increase for repeat offenses.
Fault in Ohio
Ohio is an at-fault state that uses modified comparative fault. Your damages are reduced by your share of fault, and you can't recover if your fault is greater than the combined fault of the other parties.
Why many Ohio drivers buy more
- Medical costs. A serious injury can exceed $25,000 per person.
- Winter conditions. Lake-effect snow and ice contribute to multi-vehicle crashes that can exceed $50,000 per accident.
- Deer. Ohio's rural and suburban roads see frequent deer collisions, which are usually comprehensive claims.
- No required UM. Adding UM/UIM is the main way to protect yourself from drivers who carry too little.
New to Ohio?
New residents should get an Ohio policy, or confirm that their current insurer can write coverage in Ohio, before titling and registering their vehicle with the BMV. Your premium will reflect your new address, vehicle, driving record and the insurer's approved Ohio rates. Collision and comprehensive remain optional under state law, but lenders and leasing companies usually require both.
Common scenarios
You're selected for random verification. Send proof to the BMV by the deadline to avoid suspension.
An uninsured driver injures you and you didn't buy UM. Your health insurance pays medical bills, but lost wages and pain and suffering may go unpaid.
You hit a deer on a county road. Comprehensive pays, minus your deductible. Liability doesn't.
You let coverage lapse between policies. If you're stopped or in a crash during the gap, suspension is likely.
Key terms
- Financial responsibility: Ohio's legal requirement to be able to pay for damage you cause.
- SR-22: a certificate your insurer files to prove you carry coverage after certain violations.
- UM/UIM: optional coverages that protect you from uninsured and underinsured drivers.
- Modified comparative fault: recovery reduced by fault and barred above a threshold.
Questions to ask your broker
- Do I have UM/UIM, and at what limits?
- What would 100/300/100 cost?
- Do I need an SR-22, and how long?
- Is my comprehensive deductible right for deer collisions?
Bottom line
Ohio's 25/50/25 minimum is middle-of-the-road, but UM and UIM aren't required, so you have to choose them. Most drivers with assets should consider higher liability limits and matching UM/UIM. Compare states in our car insurance minimums by state table.
Contact Alishahi Insurance or call (877) 711-4545. See insurance in Ohio and auto insurance.
Frequently asked questions
What is the minimum car insurance in Ohio?
25/50/25 liability or another approved form of financial responsibility.
Is uninsured motorist coverage required in Ohio?
No. UM and UIM are optional in Ohio.
How does Ohio verify insurance?
Through traffic stops, crash reports, random BMV verification and certain court cases.
What happens if I can't show proof of insurance in Ohio?
Your license and registration can be suspended, with reinstatement fees and possibly an SR-22 requirement.
Is Ohio a no-fault state?
No. Ohio is an at-fault state with modified comparative fault.
Alishahi Insurance · 439 N Canon Dr, Penthouse, Beverly Hills, CA 90210 · (877) 711-4545 · CA License #4348151. General information only. This isn't legal, tax or financial advice or a coverage determination. Coverage depends on policy language and underwriting, and rules vary by state.