1. What auto insurance requirements must drivers meet in Delaware?
In Delaware, as in all other states, drivers must have an active auto insurance policy that provides at least the minimum liability coverage required by the state. The minimum coverage requirements in Delaware are:
• Bodily Injury Liability: $25,000 per person/$50,000 per accident
• Property Damage Liability: $10,000 per accident
• Personal Injury Protection (PIP): $15,000 per person
• Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM): $25,000 per person/$50,000 per accident
Drivers may also choose to purchase additional coverage such as collision or comprehensive insurance, rental car reimbursement, roadside assistance, and gap insurance.
2. What proof of insurance is required to obtain a driver’s license in Delaware?
In Delaware, a driver must present proof of financial responsibility (proof of insurance) when applying for or renewing a driver’s license. Proof of insurance must be provided by the insurance company on their official form. In some cases, an acceptable electronic insurance card may also be used.
3. Are there any exceptions to the minimum auto insurance limits for drivers in Delaware?
Yes, the Delaware Motor Vehicle Commission allows certain auto insurance policyholders to carry lower than the state’s minimum liability limits. Some examples include drivers over age 55, drivers with a clean driving record, and drivers who maintain a good credit score.
4. What is the minimum bodily injury liability limit for drivers in Delaware?
The minimum bodily injury liability limit for drivers in Delaware is $15,000 per person and $30,000 per accident.
5. Is personal injury protection (PIP) required for drivers in Delaware?
No, Delaware does not require personal injury protection (PIP) for drivers.
6. How long do drivers in Delaware have to provide proof of automobile insurance after registering their vehicle?
The Delaware Code requires that all drivers maintain proof of financial responsibility (automobile insurance) for the duration of the vehicle registration period. Drivers must provide proof of financial responsibility at the time of vehicle registration and may be required to present evidence of continuing compliance at any time during the registration period.
7. Does Delaware require uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage?
Yes, Delaware requires that all motor vehicle liability policies provide uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage.
8. What are the penalties for driving without insurance in Delaware?
In Delaware, driving without insurance is considered a Class B Misdemeanor and is punishable by up to $1,500 in fines, 6 months in jail, and 6 points on your driving record. If convicted of a second offense, the fines increase to up to $3,000 and a 12-month jail sentence. Additionally, you may have your license suspended for up to 3 months.
9. Is it legal to operate a motor vehicle without insurance in Delaware?
No, it is illegal to operate a motor vehicle without insurance in Delaware.
10. Does Delaware offer low-cost auto insurance plans for drivers?
Yes, Delaware does offer low-cost auto insurance plans for drivers. The Delaware Automobile Insurance Plan (DAIP) is a program offered by the state that provides low-cost insurance coverage for drivers who may not be able to find insurance coverage through private insurance companies.
11. How does a driver reinstate their license after being convicted of driving without insurance in Delaware?
The Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) requires drivers to present proof of insurance before reinstating a license after a conviction of driving without insurance. Drivers must submit a copy of their current automobile liability insurance policy to the DMV, which must remain in effect for three years from the date of conviction. In addition, drivers must pay a $100 reinstatement fee and possibly other fines.
12. What forms of proof of auto insurance are accepted by the DMV in Delaware?
Proof of Delaware auto insurance can be provided to the DMV in the form of an Insurance Card, a Certificate of Insurance, an insurance binder, or a letter from the insurance company.
13. Are there any restrictions placed on auto insurers in Delaware regarding the minimum amounts of coverage they must offer?
Yes, Delaware law requires all auto insurers to offer Bodily Injury Liability coverage, Property Damage Liability coverage, and Uninsured Motorist coverage. All of these must have a minimum coverage of $15,000 per person for Bodily Injury Liability, $30,000 per accident for Bodily Injury Liability, and $10,000 per accident for Property Damage Liability. Uninsured Motorist coverage must also have a minimum coverage of $15,000 per person and $30,000 per accident.
14. Does Delaware require motor vehicle operators to carry liability coverage on their vehicles?
Yes, Delaware requires all motorists to carry liability insurance on their vehicles. According to the Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles, drivers must maintain at least the following minimum liability coverage: $15,000 of Bodily Injury Liability per person; $30,000 of Bodily Injury Liability per accident; and $10,000 of Property Damage Liability per accident.
15. How often must drivers in Delaware update their proof of auto insurance with the DMV?
Delaware drivers must update their proof of auto insurance with the DMV at least once a year, when they renew their vehicle registration.
16. Does Delaware require drivers to purchase uninsured motorist property damage coverage?
Yes, Delaware requires drivers to purchase uninsured motorist property damage coverage, as part of the minimum liability insurance coverage requirements mandated by law.
17. Are there any special discounts available for drivers who purchase auto insurance in Delaware?
Yes, Delaware drivers may qualify for special discounts on auto insurance. Some of these include discounts for good driving records, multi-car policies, having safety features such as airbags installed, and taking a defensive driving course.
18. Is there a grace period for providing proof of auto insurance to the DMV in Delaware?
Yes. Delaware allows for a 10 day grace period, during which a driver can provide proof of auto insurance to the DMV.
19. How much does the average auto insurance policy cost for drivers in Delaware?
The average cost of auto insurance in Delaware is around $1,355 per year. However, this amount can vary depending on your age, driving record, and other factors.
20. What type of documentation do I need to provide when getting a driver’s license in Delaware?
In order to obtain a driver’s license in Delaware, you must provide two forms of identification. The first must be a primary form, such as a passport, birth certificate, naturalization papers or resident alien card. The second form of identification must be a secondary form that includes a Social Security card, W-2 form, paycheck stub or tax return. You must also provide proof of your Delaware address such as a utility bill or rental agreement. Lastly, you must provide proof of completion of any necessary driver’s education classes.