Pennsylvania requires all drivers to maintain minimum car insurance coverage to legally operate a vehicle. The state follows a no-fault insurance system, meaning each driver’s own policy pays for their medical expenses regardless of who caused the accident. Below are Pennsylvania’s insurance requirements for 2025.
Pennsylvania Minimum Car Insurance Requirements
- $15,000 bodily injury liability per person
- $30,000 bodily injury liability per accident
- $5,000 property damage liability
- $5,000 personal injury protection (PIP)
Quick Checklist for Pennsylvania Drivers
- ✔ Maintain at least 15/30/5 liability coverage
- ✔ Carry a minimum of $5,000 PIP coverage
- ✔ Keep proof of insurance in your vehicle at all times
- ✔ Understand Pennsylvania’s no-fault system before choosing extra coverage
Optional Coverages to Consider in Pennsylvania
While the state only requires liability and PIP coverage, many drivers choose extra protection for better financial security. Learn more about these coverages in our detailed coverage guide:
- Collision Coverage: Pays for damage to your car after an accident, regardless of fault.
- Comprehensive Coverage: Covers non-collision events like theft, vandalism, fire, or storm damage.
- Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM): Helps cover expenses if you’re hit by a driver with little or no insurance.
- Medical Payments (MedPay): Provides extra medical coverage on top of PIP, useful if your medical bills exceed limits.
- Rental Reimbursement: Pays for a rental car while your vehicle is being repaired after a covered claim.
- Gap Insurance: Protects you if your financed or leased car is totaled and you owe more than its current value.
Understanding No-Fault in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania’s no-fault rules mean that your own PIP coverage handles medical costs after an accident, regardless of fault. However, property damage and liability claims may still be pursued against an at-fault driver. Drivers can also choose between “limited tort” and “full tort” options, which affect the right to sue for pain and suffering.
Ways to Save on Car Insurance in Pennsylvania
- Compare multiple insurers: Rates can vary widely, especially with no-fault and tort options.
- Bundle policies: Combine auto with home or renters insurance for multi-policy discounts.
- Choose limited tort (carefully): Limited tort lowers premiums, though it restricts lawsuit rights.
- Raise deductibles: A higher deductible can reduce monthly premiums if you can handle out-of-pocket costs.
- Maintain good credit: Pennsylvania allows insurers to use credit history as a rating factor.
- Ask about usage-based insurance: Some companies offer pay-per-mile or safe driving programs that cut costs.
Frequently Asked Questions about Pennsylvania Car Insurance
What are Pennsylvania’s minimum insurance requirements in 2025?
Drivers must carry $15,000 bodily injury liability per person, $30,000 per accident, $5,000 property damage liability, and $5,000 PIP coverage.
Does Pennsylvania use a no-fault system?
Yes. Pennsylvania requires PIP coverage under its no-fault system, meaning your own insurer pays medical bills regardless of who caused the crash.
What is the difference between limited tort and full tort?
Limited tort restricts your ability to sue for pain and suffering except in serious injury cases, while full tort preserves your unrestricted right to sue but comes with higher premiums.
Does Pennsylvania electronically verify insurance?
Yes. Insurers report coverage directly to PennDOT. If your policy lapses, you may face registration suspension, fines, and fees.
What happens if you drive without insurance in Pennsylvania?
Penalties include a $300 fine, a three-month registration suspension, and additional reinstatement fees before driving privileges are restored.