Whether you’re driving through Jackson or commuting along the Gulf Coast, Mississippi law requires all vehicles on the road to be insured. The state enforces minimum liability rules, and enforcement can happen electronically—so even parked cars must meet the requirements. Here’s a complete breakdown of what you need to know about car insurance in Mississippi.
Minimum Insurance Requirements in Mississippi
Mississippi requires every registered vehicle to have liability insurance that meets the following limits:
- Bodily Injury: $25,000 per person / $50,000 per accident
- Property Damage: $25,000 per accident
This coverage helps pay for injuries or damage you cause to others in an at-fault accident.
Optional Coverages Worth Considering
While liability is all that’s legally required, Mississippi has a high rate of uninsured drivers. Adding extra protection can save you thousands:
- Uninsured Motorist Coverage: Especially useful in Mississippi, where an estimated 29% of drivers are uninsured.
- Comprehensive: Covers things like hail damage, deer collisions, or theft.
- Collision: Pays to fix your vehicle after a crash, regardless of fault.
- MedPay: Helps with hospital bills, regardless of who caused the accident.
- Rental Reimbursement: Covers a rental car while yours is in the shop.
These upgrades are optional but highly recommended—especially in rural areas or high-risk zones like I-55 or I-20 corridors. Actually, Everyone in Mississippi needs it with 24.9 deaths per 100,000 population, one of the highest rates of all states.
What Happens If You Drive Without Insurance in Mississippi?
Mississippi enforces its insurance laws with a mix of roadside checks and electronic monitoring. Mississippi drivers report that law enforcement will have random roadblocks, checking for DUI, Drivers License Checks, and also Car Insurance Verification. If you’re caught uninsured, the penalties include:
- Fines up to $1,000
- Driver’s license suspension for up to one year
- Mandatory SR-22 insurance filing for reinstatement
- Possible vehicle impoundment
Even if your vehicle is not in use, you may still be flagged if it’s registered and uninsured in the state database.
Acceptable forms of proof include:
- Paper insurance card
- Digital card via insurer’s mobile app or email
- Self-insurance certificate (for qualifying fleet owners)
Quick Coverage Checklist
- ✅ Carry at least 25/50/25 liability coverage
- ✅ Keep proof of insurance in your car or on your phone
- ✅ Consider UM/UIM coverage due to high rates of uninsured drivers
- ✅ Avoid lapses—even if the car is not driven
Frequently Asked Questions About Mississippi Car Insurance
Does Mississippi require car insurance?
Yes. Every vehicle registered in Mississippi must carry at least the state’s minimum liability insurance, even if the car is not currently being driven.
What is SR-22 insurance in Mississippi?
If your license is suspended due to driving without insurance or another serious violation, you may need to file an SR-22 certificate. This form proves you have continuous liability coverage for about three years.
Can I show proof of insurance on my phone?
Yes. Mississippi law allows drivers to present a digital insurance card on a smartphone or other device as valid proof of coverage.
What happens if I’m caught driving without insurance in Mississippi?
Driving without insurance can lead to fines of up to $500, suspension of your license, and a requirement to file an SR-22 to reinstate your driving privileges.
Does Mississippi have an electronic insurance verification system?
Yes. Mississippi uses an electronic database to verify insurance with insurers in real time. If your coverage lapses, the state may send you a notice or suspend your registration.