Driving in Delaware requires proof of financial responsibility—minimum liability, personal injury protection (PIP), and often UM/UIM coverage. Non-compliance leads to steep fines, suspensions, and other penalties enforced directly through the state’s Insurance Verification System.
Minimum Required Coverage in Delaware
- 25/50/10 liability coverage
- 15/30 PIP coverage
- Keep proof of insurance or FR-19 form handy
- Renew before lapse to avoid $100+ penalties
As of 2025, the state mandates:
- Bodily Injury Liability: $25,000 per person / $50,000 per accident
- Property Damage Liability: $10,000 per accident
- Personal Injury Protection (PIP): $15,000 per person / $30,000 per accident (covers medical bills, lost wages, and funeral costs)
Often cited as “25/50/10 liability + 15/30 PIP.”
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) Coverage
Delaware insurers are required to offer UM/UIM coverage, which you can reject by signing a waiver:
- Bodily Injury: $25,000 per person / $50,000 per accident
- Property Damage: $10,000 per accident
This coverage protects you if you’re hit by a driver with no or insufficient insurance.
Optional Coverages to Consider
- Comprehensive (e.g., theft, hail, vandalism)
- Collision (your car’s damage in a crash)
- Medical Payments (MedPay)
- Rental Reimbursement
- Roadside Assistance
Proof of Insurance Requirements
You must carry proof of insurance at all times. Acceptable documents include:
- Insurance ID card (paper or digital)
- Certificate of insurance
- FR-19 form (filed by your insurer when required)
You may be asked to show proof during traffic stops, after accidents, or through DMV audits.
How Delaware Enforces Insurance
Delaware uses an electronic Insurance Verification System (IVS) tied to DMV records. If your policy is canceled or lapses, the system flags it automatically. The DMV will then mail you a notice requiring an FR-19 form directly from your insurer.
Even if your vehicle is parked and not driven, your registration can be suspended until proof is provided or the tags are surrendered.
Penalties for Driving Without Insurance
- First offense: $1,500–$2,000 fine, 6-month suspension of license and registration, FR-19 required
- Repeat offenses within 3 years: $3,000–$4,000 fine, another 6-month suspension
- Lapse penalty: $100 for the first 30 days + $5/day afterward
- Reinstatement fees: $50–$200 depending on the infraction
Example: If your policy lapses for 45 days, the DMV may charge a $325 fine
($100 for the first 30 days + $75 for the next 15) plus reinstatement fees —
even if the car stayed parked in your driveway.
At-Fault (Tort) State
Delaware uses a fault-based system for car accidents. The driver who causes the crash is legally responsible for damages and injuries.
High Insurance Costs & Real-World Context
Delaware drivers often pay higher-than-average premiums—over $1,000 per 6 months—even with clean records. Factors include:
- Frequent claims and DMV audits
- Strict enforcement and penalties
- Costly medical and legal expenses
Many drivers reduce costs by taking state-approved defensive driving courses, which can qualify for premium discounts.
Frequently Asked Questions
No. Delaware follows an at-fault system, meaning the driver responsible for the accident pays for damages.
No, but insurers must offer it. You can reject it with a signed waiver.
The FR-19 is a one-time proof of insurance compliance filed by your insurer, usually after a lapse or violation. Delaware does not use SR-22 filings.
The DMV will assume you are driving uninsured and suspend your registration until you return the plates or file an FR-19.
Yes. Completing a state-approved course can earn you a 10–15% premium discount, valid for three years.
Curious how insurance laws compare nearby? See requirements in
Maryland,
New Jersey, and
Pennsylvania.