Short answer: Virginia requires 50/100/25 liability for policies effective on or after January 1, 2025: $50,000 per person and $100,000 per accident for injuries, and $25,000 for property damage. Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage is required. Since July 1, 2024, Virginia no longer lets drivers pay a $500 fee to register an uninsured vehicle.
Two big changes in two years
For decades, Virginia was unusual: you could legally register a vehicle without insurance by paying a $500 uninsured motor vehicle fee. That option ended on July 1, 2024, according to the Virginia DMV. Every registered vehicle now needs insurance.
Then, on January 1, 2025, the minimum limits went up. The Virginia DMV's insurance requirements page lists the current minimums:
| Coverage | Before 2025 | Policies effective on or after January 1, 2025 |
|---|---|---|
| Bodily injury, per person | $30,000 | $50,000 |
| Bodily injury, per accident | $60,000 | $100,000 |
| Property damage | $20,000 | $25,000 |
UM and UIM are built in
Under Va. Code §38.2-2206, Virginia policies must include uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage equal to your liability limits, unless you choose lower limits, but not below the state minimum. Virginia UM can also cover property damage to your vehicle, subject to a deductible.
Contributory negligence
Virginia is one of a few jurisdictions that still uses contributory negligence. If you're even slightly at fault for an accident, you may be barred from recovering damages from the other driver. That makes your own coverage, including collision, medical payments and UM/UIM, especially important.
Proof and penalties
Virginia verifies insurance electronically through insurers. If the DMV can't confirm coverage, it can suspend your license, registration and plates, and reinstatement can require a fee and SR-22 filing. Penalties increase for repeat violations, and an uninsured crash can leave you personally responsible for every dollar of damage.
Optional coverages worth a look
- Medical expense benefits. Pay medical bills for you and your passengers regardless of fault.
- Transportation expenses. Help with a rental car after a covered claim.
- Collision and comprehensive. Pay for your own car. Lenders usually require them.
How much to carry
The 2025 increase put Virginia in line with stronger-minimum states, but serious crashes can still exceed 50/100/25. Drivers with homes or savings often choose 100/300/100 or higher and an umbrella policy. See how much umbrella insurance do I need.
Northern Virginia and beyond
Commuters on I-95, I-66 and the Beltway face heavy traffic and high repair costs. In Hampton Roads, storm flooding can damage cars, which only comprehensive covers. In rural areas, deer collisions are common. Each of these is a reason to look past the minimum.
Moving to Virginia
New residents generally must title and register their vehicles in Virginia within a short period after moving, and the registration requires Virginia-compliant insurance. Get your policy in place first, then visit the DMV.
Common scenarios
You previously paid the $500 uninsured fee. That option is gone. You need a policy to register or renew.
Your policy started in November 2024 at 30/60/20. At renewal, it should increase to at least 50/100/25.
You were slightly speeding when another driver ran a red light. Under contributory negligence, the other insurer may argue you were partly at fault. Your own collision and medical expense coverage can matter.
Floodwater damages your car in Norfolk. Comprehensive pays, minus your deductible.
Key terms
- Uninsured motor vehicle fee: a $500 fee that allowed uninsured registration, eliminated July 1, 2024.
- Contributory negligence: a rule that can bar recovery if you share any fault.
- UM/UIM: coverage for injuries and damage caused by uninsured or underinsured drivers.
- SR-22: a certificate your insurer files to prove coverage after certain violations.
Questions to ask your broker
- Has my policy renewed at 50/100/25 or higher?
- Are my UM/UIM limits equal to my liability limits?
- Do I have medical expense benefits?
- What would 100/300/100 cost?
Bottom line
Virginia's rules changed significantly in 2024 and 2025: no more uninsured fee, and higher minimum limits. Because of contributory negligence, your own coverage matters more in Virginia than in most states. Compare states in our car insurance minimums by state table.
Contact Alishahi Insurance or call (877) 711-4545. See insurance in Virginia and auto insurance.
Frequently asked questions
What is the minimum car insurance in Virginia?
50/100/25 liability for policies effective on or after January 1, 2025.
Can I still pay the uninsured motor vehicle fee in Virginia?
No. The $500 fee option ended July 1, 2024.
Is uninsured motorist coverage required in Virginia?
Yes. UM/UIM must be included at your liability limits unless you choose lower limits, but not below the state minimum.
What were Virginia's old minimums?
30/60/20, before January 1, 2025.
What is contributory negligence in Virginia?
A rule that can bar you from recovering if you're even slightly at 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.