Maryland Car Insurance Requirements (Updated for 2025)

Driving in Maryland requires proof of financial responsibility—typically through liability, uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM), and personal injury protection (PIP). Lapses in coverage can lead to steep fines, suspension, and even criminal charges.

Minimum Required Coverage in Maryland

As of 2025, Maryland law requires the following minimum auto insurance:

• Bodily Injury Liability: $30,000 per person / $60,000 per accident
• Property Damage Liability: $15,000 per accident
• Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Bodily Injury (UMBI/UIMBI): $30,000 per person / $60,000 per accident (property damage included for UM) :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
• Personal Injury Protection (PIP): $2,500 per person (offer can be waived in writing) :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}

Proof of Insurance

You must carry proof of Maryland-compliant insurance (physical or digital) at all times. Insurers must report policy cancellations or non-renewals to the MVA. To cancel coverage, you must first return your license plates to avoid penalties :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}.

Penalties for Driving Without Insurance

• Fines: $150–200 for the first 30 days of lapse, plus $7/day thereafter (capped at ~$3,500); up to $2,500 per offense for uninsured driving :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
• Registration Suspension: Immediate until proof is provided; reinstatement fee $25–$150 :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
• License Suspension: May not be automatic, but registration suspension effectively bars legal driving :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
• Criminal Charges: Driving uninsured is a misdemeanor: up to $1,000 fine and 1 year jail for first offense; repeat offenses up to $2,000 fine and 2 years jail :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
• SR‑22 Requirement: Often required for 3 years after an uninsured violation :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}

Real Experiences

“The fine has since gone up … $200 per registered vehicle for the first 30 days and $7/day thereafter.” :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}

“I got a $5,000 fine … because that policy was in the new state … not a Maryland policy.” :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}

At‑Fault System

Maryland is an at‑fault (tort) state—responsible drivers pay for damage. The uninsured motorist coverage only applies if the other driver is 100% at fault :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}.

Optional Coverages to Consider

• Comprehensive and Collision
• Rental Reimbursement
• Roadside Assistance
• Higher UM/UIM limits and Enhanced UIM options
• Umbrella liability policies (e.g., $1M CSL)

Adding these provides better protection beyond state minimums :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}.

Average Costs

Maryland’s PIP and liability minimums are standard; uninsured violations can substantially increase costs due to fines and high-risk rates (SR‑22 filings can double premiums). Check with insurers or MAIF for low-income options :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}.

Compare Car Insurance Quotes in Maryland

Rates vary based on age, location, driving record, and coverage. Shop around to compare quotes from top Maryland carriers—use the tool below to begin:

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FAQs

Is Maryland a no‑fault state?

No—it follows an at‑fault system. PIP is available but optional and can be waived.

Can I waive PIP?

Yes, you may decline optional PIP coverage in writing :contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14}.

Is UM/UIM mandatory?

Yes—UM/UIM must match your liability limits (30/60/15 minimum) unless you waive higher limits :contentReference[oaicite:15]{index=15}.

What happens if insurance lapses?

You’ll be fined daily, lose registration, and may need SR‑22. According to one driver: “The fine … $200 … first 30 days and $7/day …” :contentReference[oaicite:16]{index=16}