Insurance Requirements for Driver’s License in Texas

1. What auto insurance requirements must drivers meet in Texas?


In the state of Texas, drivers must carry a minimum of $30,000 for bodily injury liability per person, $60,000 for bodily injury liability per accident, and $25,000 for property damage liability. Additionally, most lenders also require drivers to carry comprehensive and collision coverage.

2. What proof of insurance is required to obtain a driver’s license in Texas?


In Texas, drivers applying for a license must provide proof of minimum liability insurance. The policy should have limits of at least $30,000 for each injured person up to a total of $60,000 per accident, and property damage coverage of at least $25,000 per accident.

3. Are there any exceptions to the minimum auto insurance limits for drivers in Texas?


Yes, Texas does allow drivers to opt for a surety bond in lieu of purchasing auto insurance. This option is only available to drivers who can prove that they are unable to obtain traditional auto insurance due to adverse financial conditions, and who have the ability to post a bond for the minimum auto insurance limits. Additionally, drivers who are members of a recognized religious organization that objects to both insurance and the taking of oaths may also be exempt from certain state auto insurance requirements.

4. What is the minimum bodily injury liability limit for drivers in Texas?


The minimum bodily injury liability limit for drivers in Texas is $30,000 per person and $60,000 per accident.

5. Is personal injury protection (PIP) required for drivers in Texas?


No, personal injury protection (PIP) is not required for drivers in Texas. However, drivers are encouraged to consider purchasing PIP, as it can provide financial protection in the event of an accident.

6. How long do drivers in Texas have to provide proof of automobile insurance after registering their vehicle?


In Texas, drivers must provide proof of automobile insurance at the time they register their vehicle. They must also maintain proof of insurance while driving in the state.

7. Does Texas require uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage?


Yes, Texas requires drivers to carry uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. The minimum coverage requirement is $30,000 per person/$60,000 per accident.

8. What are the penalties for driving without insurance in Texas?


Driving without insurance in Texas is a Class C misdemeanor, punishable by a fine up to $500. Drivers may also face suspension or revocation of their license, depending on the severity of the violation.

9. Is it legal to operate a motor vehicle without insurance in Texas?


No, it is illegal to operate a motor vehicle without insurance in Texas.

10. Does Texas offer low-cost auto insurance plans for drivers?


Yes, Texas offers low-cost auto insurance plans for drivers. The Texas Automobile Insurance Plan Association (TAIPA) is a nonprofit organization that provides low-cost auto insurance to drivers who are unable to obtain coverage through the regular market.

11. How does a driver reinstate their license after being convicted of driving without insurance in Texas?


In order to reinstate a driver’s license following a conviction for driving without insurance in Texas, the driver is required to pay a reinstatement fee of $125 and provide proof of financial responsibility. Financial responsibility can be proven by either obtaining and providing proof of an insurance policy or filing and providing proof of the filing of a surety bond with the Department of Public Safety. If the driver is unable to secure an insurance policy, they must file a surety bond with the Department of Public Safety in the amount of $55,000 for one year. The bond must be maintained for three years.

12. What forms of proof of auto insurance are accepted by the DMV in Texas?


The following forms of proof of auto insurance are accepted by the DMV in Texas:

1. Insurance card issued by your insurance company.
2. Current Declaration Page from your insurance policy.
3. Letter from your insurance company stating the dates of coverage.
4. Copy of Binder from your insurance company.
5. Copy of a valid Texas Insurance Verification (TIV) card.

13. Are there any restrictions placed on auto insurers in Texas regarding the minimum amounts of coverage they must offer?


Yes. Texas auto insurers are required to offer a minimum of $30,000 in bodily injury coverage per person, $60,000 in bodily injury coverage per accident, and $25,000 in property damage coverage per accident.

14. Does Texas require motor vehicle operators to carry liability coverage on their vehicles?


Yes, Texas requires motor vehicle operators to carry liability coverage on their vehicles. Texas requires drivers to have bodily injury liability coverage of at least $30,000 per person and $60,000 per accident, and property damage liability coverage of at least $25,000.

15. How often must drivers in Texas update their proof of auto insurance with the DMV?


Most drivers in Texas must update their proof of auto insurance with the DMV every time their coverage changes or renews. Drivers should also update their proof of auto insurance if they change their address or purchase a new vehicle.

16. Does Texas require drivers to purchase uninsured motorist property damage coverage?


Yes, Texas requires drivers to purchase uninsured motorist property damage coverage. This is a type of coverage that can help protect you in the event that you are in an accident with an uninsured driver who does not have adequate insurance coverage to pay for the damages caused by the accident.

17. Are there any special discounts available for drivers who purchase auto insurance in Texas?


Yes, drivers may be eligible for a variety of discounts when purchasing auto insurance in Texas. Some of the common discounts available include those for multiple vehicles, good driving records, multiple policies, and safety features.

18. Is there a grace period for providing proof of auto insurance to the DMV in Texas?


Yes, the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TxDMV) gives a 10-day grace period to provide proof of auto insurance. The grace period begins on the expiration date of your prior policy or the date of purchase for your new policy.

19. How much does the average auto insurance policy cost for drivers in Texas?


The cost of an auto insurance policy in Texas can vary significantly based on a variety of factors, including age, driving record, and the type and amount of coverage purchased. According to The Zebra, the average annual cost of auto insurance in Texas is $1,982.

20. What type of documentation do I need to provide when getting a driver’s license in Texas?


When getting a driver’s license in Texas, you will need to provide proof of identification such as a birth certificate, a valid passport, a certificate of naturalization or citizenship, a current out-of-state driver’s license, or an identification card issued by another U.S. state or territory. You will also need to provide proof of Texas residency, which can include an original or certified copy of a birth certificate, U.S. passport, utility bill, bank statement, pay stub, or voter registration card. If you are under 18 years old you will also need your parent or guardian’s signature on the application and proof of completion of a driver education course if it is required in your county.