Minnesota drivers must carry both liability and no-fault insurance to legally operate a vehicle. The state follows a no-fault system, meaning your own insurer pays for your medical costs and certain other losses, no matter who caused the crash.
What You Need to Drive Legally in Minnesota
To drive legally in Minnesota, you must carry at least:
- Bodily Injury: $30,000 per person / $60,000 per accident
- Property Damage: $10,000 per accident
This liability coverage pays for injuries or property damage you cause to others.
Personal Injury Protection (PIP)
As a no-fault state, Minnesota requires PIP coverage:
- Medical Expenses: $20,000 per person
- Non-Medical Benefits: $20,000 per person for lost wages, replacement services, and other related costs
This coverage pays out regardless of who was at fault in the accident.
Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Coverage
Minnesota also requires protection from uninsured or underinsured drivers:
- Uninsured Motorist (UM): $25,000 per person / $50,000 per accident
- Underinsured Motorist (UIM): $25,000 per person / $50,000 per accident
These coverages help if you’re injured by someone without enough coverage.
Optional Coverages To Consider In Minnesota
You may also consider these optional policies:
- Collision Coverage
- Comprehensive Coverage
- Uninsured Motorist Property Damage
These can help pay for repairs to your own vehicle and other out-of-pocket costs.
Minnesota Penalties for Driving Without Insurance
Failing to carry required insurance in Minnesota can lead to:
- Fines up to $1,000
- Driver’s license suspension
- Vehicle registration suspension
- Requirement to file an SR-22 for proof of future coverage
Insurance compliance is enforced both at traffic stops and through registration checks.
Proof of Insurance
Drivers must carry proof of insurance at all times and present it during traffic stops or registration. Electronic proof is accepted on mobile devices.
Electronic Insurance Verification
Minnesota uses an electronic system to verify active insurance policies. Insurance status is routinely checked at the time of registration and renewal.
- ✓ Carry 30/60/10 liability coverage
- ✓ Maintain $40,000 in PIP coverage
- ✓ Carry UM/UIM coverage of $25,000/$50,000
- ✓ Have proof of insurance on hand (paper or electronic)
- ✓ Avoid lapses to prevent fines or license suspension
Frequently Asked Questions About Minnesota Car Insurance
Is car insurance mandatory in Minnesota?
Yes, all Minnesota drivers must carry minimum liability, PIP, and UM/UIM coverage.
What is the minimum insurance required?
Liability of 30/60/10, $40,000 in PIP, and UM/UIM coverage of 25/50 are all mandatory.
Does Minnesota allow electronic proof of insurance?
Yes. You can show insurance proof on your smartphone during a traffic stop.
What happens if I don’t have insurance?
Penalties may include fines, license suspension, registration revocation, and an SR-22 filing requirement.
Where can I find more official information?
Visit the Minnesota Department of Commerce for official insurance guidelines.
Want to compare Minnesota’s insurance laws? Check neighboring states:
Iowa,
Wisconsin,
South Dakota, and
North Dakota.