Driving in Florida? Here’s What Your Car Insurance Must Cover

Minimum Insurance Requirements in Florida

Florida is a **no-fault** state, which means that each driver turns to their own insurance for their injuries. The at fault driver is usually responsible for damages to the vehicle, but not injuries to the other driver. In Florida, Drivers must carry:

• Personal Injury Protection (PIP): $10,000
• Property Damage Liability (PDL): $10,000

Although Bodily Injury Liability isn’t required, many drivers add it for extra protection. Bodily Injury Liability would protect you in case you were sued for injuries to another driver, a No Fault state usually keeps these instances from happening, but better safe than sorry.

Real Issues In Florida Affect Car Insurance Premiums

While Florida’s insurance laws apply statewide, where you live can have a dramatic impact on your premiums, risk level, and the type of coverage you truly need.

Miami: PIP Fraud and High Premiums

Miami consistently ranks among the most expensive cities in the U.S. for car insurance — largely due to rampant PIP fraud and a high rate of staged accidents. Even basic coverage can cost twice the state average. Many drivers here consider adding bodily injury liability, despite it not being required by law.

Orlando: Tourism Traffic and Rear-End Collisions

With heavy tourism year-round and countless rental cars on the road, Orlando sees a high number of minor accidents. Rear-end collisions and distracted driving claims are common, making personal injury protection (PIP) and optional medical payments coverage especially relevant here.

Tampa Bay: Flood Risk and Comprehensive Coverage

In Tampa, St. Petersburg, and Clearwater, flood-prone neighborhoods and storm surges make comprehensive coverage a smart investment — especially during hurricane season. Basic liability alone won’t cover weather-related vehicle damage.

The Villages: Retiree Drivers and Low Mileage

In The Villages and other retirement-focused communities, many drivers cover far fewer miles each year. This can help lower premiums, especially with insurers who offer low-mileage or usage-based discounts. Golf cart accidents, however, may not be covered under standard auto policies.

Optional Coverage & Financial Responsibility

To reduce financial risk, Floridians often choose additional policies such as:

• Carrying Bodily Injury Liability

Technically, Florida doesn’t require bodily injury liability — but here’s the trap: if you cause a crash, you can still get sued personally. That’s why most drivers carry it anyway.

• Collision and Comprehensive Coverage
• Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage (UM/UIM)
• Medical Payments, Rental Reimbursement, Roadside Assistance

After accidents involving injury, you’re responsible for demonstrating full liability coverage per Florida Statutes §324.171 (the financial responsibility law)

Penalties for “No Insurance” In Florida

If insurance lapses, Florida’s FLHSMV may:

• Send a **Notice of Suspension** via mail
• Suspend your driver’s license, vehicle registration, and license plates
• Charge reinstatement fees from $150 up to $500 depending on repeat violations
• Require an SR-22 filing to restore coverage

Electronic Verification & FLHSMV Enforcement

All licensed Florida insurers automatically report policy changes to FLHSMV. If a lapse is detected, the department:

• Sends a **Notice of Suspension** (often called an FR sanction letter)
• Uses the MyDMV Portal to let you view and clear suspension notices online
• Requires reinstatement fees and proof of new coverage to restore registration

📌 You can update your insurance information:

• Online via the MyDMV portal
• By mailing, visiting an office, or calling FLHSMV

Non-Resident & Military Rules

If you’re new to Florida or a Florida-registered driver stationed out-of-state:

• You must register and insure your vehicle in Florida within 10 days of employment or school enrollment
• Returning out-of-state active duty drivers must surrender plates if they cancel Florida Insurance

FAQs for Florida Drivers

What should I do if I receive a Florida insurance suspension letter?

Respond immediately. Provide proof of current Florida auto insurance to the FLHSMV online through the MyDMV Portal, by phone, mail, or in person before the deadline listed. If you miss the date, your driver license and registration will be suspended.

Can I keep my Florida insurance if I sell my vehicle?

Yes, but you must notify the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) and surrender your plates and registration. Failing to do so may trigger an insurance suspension.

How can I clear a Florida FR-8 insurance suspension?

Log into the MyDMV Portal, pay the reinstatement fee, and upload proof of valid Florida auto insurance. Once processed, your driving and registration privileges will be restored.

What is the minimum required auto insurance in Florida?

Florida requires at least $10,000 in Personal Injury Protection (PIP) and $10,000 in Property Damage Liability (PDL). Bodily Injury Liability is not mandatory for most drivers but is required in certain cases, such as after a serious crash or DUI conviction.

Does Florida allow electronic proof of insurance?

Yes. Florida law permits drivers to show proof of insurance electronically on a smartphone or other device during traffic stops or inspections.

What happens if my Florida insurance lapses?

If your coverage lapses, the FLHSMV can suspend your driver license and registration for up to three years or until you provide proof of insurance and pay reinstatement fees.