Starting January 1, 2025, all drivers in West Virginia must carry minimum liability auto insurance to legally drive or register a vehicle. As an at-fault state, West Virginia places financial responsibility on the driver who causes an accident. This guide walks through the key coverage types, penalties, and enforcement rules every Mountaineer State driver should know.
Driving in West Virginia? Know the Required Coverage
West Virginia requires the following minimum coverage, also known as 25/50/25 liability limits:
- $25,000 for bodily injury to one person
- $50,000 for bodily injury per accident
- $25,000 for property damage
This coverage pays for injuries and property damage you cause to others. It does not cover your own medical bills or damage to your car.
What If You Are In West Virginia and Uninsured
West Virginia is one of several states that requires uninsured motorist (UM) coverage to be included in all auto policies. Underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage is also offered, but can be declined in writing.
This protection helps if you’re hit by a driver who has no insurance—or not enough to cover your losses. UM/UIM coverage applies to both injuries and, in some cases, property damage, depending on your policy setup.
Take a Look At Valuable Coverage Options
While liability and UM are the legal minimums, you might want additional protection depending on your vehicle, location, or driving habits. Common add-ons in West Virginia include:
- Collision Coverage – Pays for damage to your car after an at-fault accident.
- Comprehensive Coverage – Covers non-collision events like hail, theft, or deer strikes (which are common in WV).
- Medical Payments (MedPay) – Covers injuries to you or your passengers, regardless of fault.
- Roadside Assistance and Rental Reimbursement – Useful in rural areas where services may be limited.
Driving Without Insurance in West Virginia?
If you’re caught driving without insurance in West Virginia, you could face:
- Fines ranging from $200 to $5,000
- Suspension of your driver’s license and vehicle registration
- Reinstatement fees and possible jail time for repeat offenses
- SR‑22 filing requirement for high-risk status
Unlike some states, West Virginia can penalize you even if your car is parked and not being driven—if it’s registered, it must be insured.
Proof of Insurance & Electronic Monitoring
Drivers must carry proof of insurance and show it when requested by law enforcement or during vehicle registration and inspection. West Virginia also uses an electronic insurance verification system that automatically checks whether registered vehicles have active coverage.
Insurance companies report policy data to the DMV. If your policy lapses, the state may issue a warning, suspend your registration, or fine you.
Compare to Nearby States
| State | Minimum Liability Limits | Notable Differences |
|---|---|---|
| West Virginia | 25/50/25 | UM required; electronic verification enforced |
| Virginia | 30/60/20 | Allows driving uninsured with UMV fee |
| Ohio | 25/50/25 | UM not required |
| Kentucky | 25/50/25 + PIP | No-fault state; PIP mandatory |
| Pennsylvania | 15/30/5 | Choice no-fault system |
Frequently Asked Questions about West Virginia Car Insurance
What are West Virginia’s minimum car insurance requirements in 2025?
You must carry at least 25/50/25 liability coverage, and uninsured motorist (UM) coverage is required. UIM is optional but offered by all insurers.
Does West Virginia use electronic insurance verification?
Yes. The DMV uses real-time reporting from insurers to track whether registered vehicles remain insured.
What happens if I let my insurance lapse?
You could face registration and license suspension, a reinstatement fee, and be required to carry an SR‑22 for future coverage.
Do I need insurance if I’m not driving my car?
Yes—if the vehicle is still registered, it must be insured. You can return your plates to the DMV if you plan to store the vehicle and cancel insurance legally.
Can I show digital proof of insurance in West Virginia?
Yes. Electronic proof (e.g. via smartphone app or PDF) is accepted by law enforcement and during registration.
Disclaimer: This guide provides a general overview based on 2025 requirements. For the most up-to-date regulations, visit the West Virginia DMV or consult your insurance provider.