California law requires every driver to carry liability insurance of at least 30/60/15: $30,000 for injury or death to one person, $60,000 for injury or death to two or more people, and $15,000 for property damage in one accident. These minimums took effect on January 1, 2025, the first update to California's financial responsibility law in 56 years, according to the California Department of Insurance.
What the California minimum limits are
The California DMV lists the required minimums under California Insurance Code section 11580.1b:
CoverageMinimum per accidentWhat it pays forBodily injury, one person$30,000Medical bills and losses of one person you injureBodily injury, two or more people$60,000The total for everyone you injure in one accidentProperty damage$15,000Damage you cause to someone else's car, fence or building
You will often see this written as 30/60/15. If your policy shows lower numbers and it was issued or renewed after January 1, 2025, ask your agent to review it.
What liability insurance covers, and what it does not
Liability insurance pays for the harm you cause to other people when an accident is your fault. It protects your savings and income if someone makes a claim against you.
Liability-only coverage does not pay for:
Repairs to your own car
Theft of your car
Your own medical bills (unless you add medical payments coverage)
Damage caused by a driver with no insurance (unless you add uninsured motorist coverage)
Is the minimum enough?
The minimum keeps you legal, but serious accidents can cost more than these limits. If the damage is larger than your limits, you may be personally responsible for the difference. Many drivers choose higher liability limits, especially if they own a home or have savings to protect.
Ask yourself these questions:
Could I afford to pay a large claim out of pocket if my limits ran out?
Is my car financed or leased? Lenders usually require comprehensive and collision coverage too.
Do I drive often on busy freeways like the 405 and the 710, where multi-car accidents happen?
Repairs to newer cars with sensors and cameras can be costly, so the property damage limit is worth a second look too. A licensed agent can show you how higher limits would change your policy.
Optional coverages worth knowing
Uninsured and underinsured motorist: pays for your injuries when the other driver has no insurance or too little.
Collision: pays to repair your car after an accident, whoever is at fault.
Comprehensive: pays for theft, vandalism, fire, flood and broken glass.
Medical payments: helps with medical bills for you and your passengers.
Rental and roadside assistance: keeps you moving while your car is being repaired.
Other ways to meet California's requirement
Insurance is the most common choice, but the California DMV also accepts a $75,000 cash deposit with the DMV, a $75,000 surety bond from a company licensed in California, or a DMV-issued self-insurance certificate.
What happens if you drive without insurance?
You must carry proof of insurance in your vehicle and show it if a police officer asks or after an accident. According to the California DMV, if the DMV does not receive proof of insurance for a vehicle, its registration will be suspended, and the vehicle may not be driven or parked on public roads until proof is submitted.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need full coverage in California?
The law requires only liability. Full coverage (liability plus comprehensive and collision) is usually required by your lender if your car is financed or leased.
Does the minimum apply to drivers with an SR-22?
Yes. An SR-22 is a form your insurer files with the DMV to prove you carry at least the state minimum liability coverage.
Can I get insurance if I don't have a California driver's license?
Many carriers can consider other forms of identification. Call us and we will check the options available for your situation.
Talk to Barua Insurance in Long Beach
Not sure whether your policy meets the 30/60/15 minimum, or whether you need more? Our licensed agents will review your coverage with you in English or Spanish. Call (562) 273-3989 or visit us at 1310 Pine Ave, Suite D, Long Beach, CA 90813 for a free quote, with no obligation.
Coverage is subject to the terms of each policy and carrier approval.