To drive legally in Texas, you must maintain active liability insurance that meets the state’s minimum requirements. As a fault-based regime, Texas holds the responsible driver accountable for accident damages. Here’s a full breakdown for 2025—including penalties, optional protections, electronic verification, and what to do when you’re caught uninsured.
How Much Car Insurance You Need in Texas
Texas mandates the following minimum car insurance limits:
- Bodily Injury Liability: $30,000 per person / $60,000 per accident
- Property Damage Liability: $25,000 per accident
Known as “30/60/25” — you’re required to meet these limits for liability protection.
Optional Coverages That Add Protection For Texas Drivers
Many drivers add extra coverage to reduce financial risk. Common options include:
- Collision Coverage
- Comprehensive Coverage (e.g., theft, fire, weather)
- Roadside Assistance
- Rental Car Reimbursement
- Medical Payments (MedPay)
Lenders typically require full comp & collision coverage on financed or leased vehicles.
Car Insurance Realities in Texas Cities
Texas drivers face very different risks depending on where they live. Whether you’re cruising the wide highways of Dallas or navigating downtown Houston, local conditions can drive up — or bring down — your car insurance premiums.
Houston: Flooding and High Claim Volume
Houston’s frequent storms and flood-prone roads make comprehensive coverage almost a must — even if your car is fully paid off. Harris County also has a high volume of insurance claims, which can push premiums higher than the state average.
Dallas–Fort Worth: Metroplex Traffic and Uninsured Drivers
In the DFW area, drivers deal with major congestion on I-35, I-30, and the LBJ Freeway. Accidents are common, and some counties in North Texas have above-average rates of uninsured drivers. Carrying uninsured motorist protection is highly recommended here.
El Paso: Border Town, Lower Rates
Despite being a border city, El Paso tends to have lower-than-average car insurance premiums. Safer roads, lower traffic density, and a high percentage of insured drivers keep costs down — though basic liability may still leave you underprotected.
Austin: Fast Growth, Rising Risk
With a booming population and rapid development, Austin is seeing more traffic and higher claim rates. While insurance is still cheaper here than in Houston or Dallas, drivers may notice rising premiums — especially for newer or leased vehicles.
Some states still require insurance on registered vehicles. See how Texas and other states handle parked or unused vehicles.
No Car Insurance In Texas?
Lacking valid insurance in Texas can result in hefty penalties, including:
- Fine up to $350 plus court costs for first offense
- Two‑year license suspension for repeat violations
- SR-22 requirement (proof of financial responsibility)
Penalties can be triggered automatically—even if you’re not pulled over—due to electronic verification through TexasSure.
Texas Proof Of Car Insurance Options
Drivers must carry valid proof of insurance at all times and present it when:
- Stopped by law enforcement
- Involved in an accident
- Registering or renewing vehicle registration
TexasSure Insurance Verification System
Texas runs a statewide electronic insurance verification system called TexasSure, a joint initiative by TxDMV, DPS, TDI, and others
If your vehicle isn’t verified as insured, TexasSure automatically notifies you via mail—just like Alabama’s MLI letters. You must respond within 10 days or risk penalties
Authorized personnel (including law enforcement and county offices) access TexasSure through secure systems like TLETS to confirm your insurance status on the spot
- ✅ Maintain continuous insurance on registered vehicles
- ✅ Respond promptly to TexasSure verification letters
- ✅ Provide proof of valid insurance (policy or binder)
- ✅ File SR-22 if required due to violations
🔗 Learn more or respond to a TexasSure notice on TxDMV.gov
Much like Georgia and Alabama, Texas expects active insurance unless registration plates have been formally surrendered.
DUI and Car Insurance in Texas
Getting a DUI in Texas can severely impact your car insurance rates, your ability to drive legally, and your future eligibility for affordable coverage. If you’ve been convicted of driving under the influence (DWI in Texas), here’s what you need to know about SR-22 filings, rate hikes, and the path to getting back on the road.
SR-22 Requirements in Texas
Texas requires an SR-22 certificate to be filed with the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) if your license is suspended due to a DUI or other serious violation. This certificate proves you have the state’s minimum liability coverage and must be maintained for 2 years from the date of conviction or suspension.
- SR-22 must be filed by your insurer directly with DPS
- You can’t cancel coverage or let it lapse during the filing period
- Reinstatement fees may apply when regaining your license
How a DUI Affects Your Insurance Rates in Texas
After a DUI, most Texas drivers can expect their car insurance premiums to increase significantly—sometimes by 50% to 100% or more. You’ll also be classified as a high-risk driver, which may limit your coverage options or disqualify you from standard insurance policies.
Quick Tip: Texas doesn’t offer a “DUI insurance discount” for completion of classes, but shopping around is essential. Rates vary widely between providers—even with an SR-22.
How Long Does a DUI Stay on Your Record in Texas?
In Texas, a DUI (DWI) stays on your driving record for life, but insurers typically look back 3 to 10 years when calculating your rates. For insurance purposes, a DUI may affect your premiums for at least 3–5 years after the conviction.
High-Risk Insurance Options in Texas
If you’re unable to find standard coverage, you may need to shop through specialized insurers that offer SR-22 filings. Texas also participates in the Texas Automobile Insurance Plan Association (TAIPA), which helps high-risk drivers get basic liability coverage.
- Check with non-standard carriers that advertise SR-22 policies
- Contact TAIPA only if you’re rejected by multiple private insurers
Frequently Asked Questions about DUI and Car Insurance in Texas
Does Texas use the term DUI or DWI?
Texas law refers to drunk driving offenses as DWI (Driving While Intoxicated), but many insurers still use the term DUI interchangeably.
Do I need an SR-22 after a DWI in Texas?
Yes. If your license was suspended due to a DWI, you’ll need an SR-22 filed by your insurer before you can legally drive again.
How much more will I pay for insurance after a DUI in Texas?
On average, expect a 60% to 100% increase in premiums. Rates vary by insurer and location.
What happens if I let my SR-22 lapse?
Your insurer will notify the Texas DPS, and your license may be suspended again. Continuous coverage is required for the full SR-22 period.
Can I remove a DUI from my Texas driving record?
No. A DWI conviction in Texas stays on your record permanently and cannot be expunged. However, its effect on your insurance rates lessens over time.
Frequently Asked Questions about Texas Car Insurance
What are Texas’ minimum car insurance requirements in 2025?
Texas requires at least $30,000 bodily injury liability per person, $60,000 per accident, and $25,000 in property damage liability coverage.
Does Texas use electronic insurance verification?
Yes. Texas uses the Texas Automobile Insurance Plan Association (TAIPA) system to verify insurance status electronically with insurers and DMV.
What happens if you’re caught driving uninsured in Texas?
Penalties include fines up to $350, vehicle registration suspension, and a requirement to file an SR-22 certificate for reinstatement.
Can your registration be suspended for insurance lapses in Texas?
Yes. Texas can suspend your vehicle registration and driver’s license for failure to maintain continuous insurance coverage.
Curious how insurance laws compare with other states? See requirements in
California,
Georgia,
Oklahoma,
and Arkansas.
