Minimum Liability Coverage in Nevada
All Nevada drivers must carry liability insurance that meets the state’s minimum requirements:
- Bodily Injury Liability: $25,000 per person / $50,000 per accident
- Property Damage Liability: $20,000 per accident
These minimums satisfy Nevada Revised Statutes Chapter 690B, but higher limits are often recommended to protect against lawsuits or severe accidents.
Optional Coverages to Consider in Nevada
In addition to the state-required minimums, Nevada drivers often choose optional coverages to protect their vehicles and manage out-of-pocket costs. Common options include:
- Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage (UM/UIM): Protects you if you’re hit by a driver with little or no insurance, especially useful in busy tourist areas like Las Vegas and Reno.
- Collision and Comprehensive Coverage: Covers damage to your own vehicle from accidents, weather events, vandalism, or animal collisions. Desert heat and sudden mountain snowstorms make these coverages valuable.
- Medical Payments Coverage: Helps cover medical bills for you and passengers regardless of fault.
- Roadside Assistance: Essential for long drives through remote desert highways where towing or help may be far away.
- Rental Reimbursement: Pays for a rental car while your vehicle is being repaired after a covered loss—handy if you rely on your car for work or family travel.
When choosing optional coverage in Nevada, consider your vehicle’s value, driving areas (urban vs. rural), and exposure to extreme weather or desert conditions. These protections can save you significant time and money after an accident or unexpected damage.
Penalties for Driving Without Insurance
Failing to maintain insurance in Nevada can have serious consequences:
- Fines up to $500 for a first offense
- Suspension of driver’s license and vehicle registration
- Mandatory SR-22 filing for proof of future coverage
- Vehicle impoundment for repeat violations
An SR-22 filing can increase your insurance premiums for several years. Continuous coverage is the safest way to avoid penalties.
Proof of Insurance & Electronic Verification
Nevada DMV participates in an electronic insurance verification system. Your coverage is checked automatically when registering or renewing your vehicle.
If your insurance lapses or isn’t on file, DMV sends a Notice of Non-Compliance. Failure to respond may lead to license and registration suspension.
- ✅ Maintain continuous insurance coverage on all registered vehicles
- ✅ Respond promptly to DMV lapse notices
- ✅ Provide proof of insurance immediately to avoid suspension
- ✅ File SR-22 if required after violations
Non-Use Status and Registration
If your vehicle will not be driven, Nevada allows you to place it on Non-Operation Status with the DMV. This temporarily suspends registration and removes the insurance requirement. Notify the DMV promptly to avoid penalties.
Frequently Asked Questions About Nevada Car Insurance
Is car insurance required in Nevada?
Yes. All registered vehicles must carry liability insurance, even if the car isn’t being driven.
What are Nevada’s minimum coverage limits?
Minimum liability coverage is 25/50/20: $25,000 per person / $50,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $20,000 for property damage.
Does Nevada use real-time insurance verification?
Yes. Nevada DMV continuously monitors registered vehicles to confirm active insurance policies.
Can the DMV send notices if the car isn’t being driven?
Yes. Lapsed insurance can trigger suspension notices even for non-operational or parked vehicles.
What are penalties for driving without insurance?
Penalties include fines, registration suspension, SR-22 filing, and possible vehicle impoundment for repeat offenses.
Does Nevada accept digital proof of insurance?
Yes. Drivers may show proof electronically via smartphone or other devices during traffic stops.
Compare Nevada’s insurance requirements with neighboring states:
California,
Arizona,
Utah,
Oregon.