Delaware Car Insurance Requirements (Updated for 2025)

Driving in Delaware requires proof of financial responsibility—minimum liability, personal injury protection (PIP), and for many, UM/UIM coverage. Non‑compliance leads to steep fines, suspensions, and other penalties.

Minimum Required Coverage in Delaware

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 costs, lost wages, funeral expenses)

Often cited as “25/50/10 liability + 15/30 PIP.”

Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) Coverage

Insurers must offer UM/UIM coverage, which you may reject via signed waiver:

• UM/UIM bodily injury: $25,000 per person / $50,000 per accident
• UM/UIM property damage: $10,000 per accident

Covers damages when hit by a driver with no or insufficient insurance.

Optional Coverages to Consider

• Comprehensive (e.g., theft, hail, vandalism)
• Collision (damage to your vehicle)
• Medical Payments (MedPay)
• Rental Reimbursement
• Roadside Assistance

Proof of Insurance Requirements

You must always carry proof—insurance ID card, certificate of insurance, or FR‑19—to present during stops, accidents, or DMV audits

Penalties for Driving Without Insurance

• First offense: $1,500–$2,000 fine, 6‑month license & registration suspension; FR‑19 filed
• Repeat offenses within 3 years: $3,000–$4,000 fine, additional 6‑month suspension
• Insurance lapse penalty: $100 for 1–30 days + $5/day thereafter; registration suspended until proof provided
• Reinstatement fees: ~$50–$200 depending on license and registration status

At‑Fault (Tort) State

Delaware follows a fault system—at-fault drivers are legally responsible for damages in accidents

High Insurance Costs & Real-World Context

Delaware has high auto insurance rates (often boosted by fines, claims, and audits). Many residents pay ~$1,000+ per 6 months even with no claims

> “Delaware has some of the highest car insurance rates in the country… my renewal cost $969 for 6 months”

> “Moving from right over the border in PA to DE saw about a 30% increase… Delaware drivers have some of the highest automobile claim rates.”

Defensive driving course discounts are common—check DMV for approved programs

Compare Auto Insurance Quotes in Delaware

Premiums vary based on location, age, driving history, vehicle, and coverage. Use the tool below to compare quotes from top Delaware insurers:

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FAQs

Is Delaware a no‑fault state?

No. Delaware follows an at‑fault (tort) system; the at‑fault party pays for damages.

Is UM/UIM coverage mandatory?

No—you can reject UM/UIM—but insurers must offer it in writing.

What is an SR‑22 / FR‑19 in Delaware?

Delaware does not use SR‑22 forms. Instead, insurers file an FR‑19 one-time certification to prove compliance