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

In Washington, drivers are required by law to have liability auto insurance. Liability insurance covers bodily injury and property damage that you cause if you are found to be at fault in an accident. The minimum liability insurance coverage required in Washington is $25,000 per person for bodily injury, $50,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $10,000 for property damage. Drivers must also have uninsured motorist coverage with a minimum of $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident.

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

In Washington, applicants for a driver’s license must provide proof of auto insurance or a bond as proof that they have the financial responsibility to pay for any damages they may cause while driving. Proof of insurance must include the name of the insurance company, policy number, and effective dates of coverage.

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

Yes, there are exceptions to the minimum auto insurance limits for drivers in Washington. Drivers who are using their vehicles primarily for business purposes, are operating a vehicle owned by their employer, or are covered under a self-insurance certificate may be exempt from the minimum auto insurance requirements. Additionally, drivers with antique vehicles registered as antiques in the state of Washington may qualify for an exception to the minimum auto insurance limits.

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

In Washington, drivers are required to carry a minimum bodily injury liability limit of $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident.

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

Yes, Washington law requires that all drivers carry personal injury protection (PIP) insurance as part of their auto insurance policy. PIP pays for medical expenses and lost wages in the event of an accident, regardless of who is at fault.

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

Washington law requires drivers to maintain proof of liability insurance at all times while operating a motor vehicle. After registering a vehicle, liability insurance must be provided within 60 days.

7. Does Washington require uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage?

Yes, Washington requires uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. This coverage is required to protect drivers in the event of an accident with an uninsured or underinsured driver.

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

In Washington, driving without insurance is a misdemeanor. Penalties for a first offense can include a $450–$1,000 fine, suspension of the driver’s license and/or registration for up to 90 days, and potential jail time of up to 90 days. Subsequent offenses can result in a fine of up to $5,000, suspension of the driver’s license and/or registration for up to one year, and potential jail time of up to one year.

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

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

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

Yes, Washington state offers low-cost auto insurance plans for drivers through the Washington Automobile Insurance Plan (WAIP), which is administered by the Washington State Office of the Insurance Commissioner. The WAIP provides coverage for drivers who may be unable to secure or maintain auto insurance due to their driving record or other factors.

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

In order to reinstate a driver’s license in Washington after being convicted of driving without insurance, the driver must pay a $550 reinstatement fee and show proof of SR-22 insurance for a minimum of 3 years. The driver may also be required to take an approved driver safety course in order to reinstate their license.

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

The DMV in Washington accepts the following forms of proof of auto insurance: an online printout of an auto insurance policy, a copy of an auto insurance policy, a valid insurance ID card, or a letter from the insurance company on their letterhead.

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

Yes. Washington law requires that all auto insurance policies provide a minimum of $25,000 per person for bodily injury liability, $50,000 per accident for bodily injury liability, and $10,000 for property damage liability. Policies must also include personal injury protection (PIP) coverage in the amount of $10,000.

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

Yes, Washington requires motor vehicle operators to carry minimum liability insurance, as well as uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage.

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

In Washington, drivers must update their proof of auto insurance with the DMV every six months.

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

No, uninsured motorist property damage coverage is not required in Washington. However, it is recommended that drivers purchase this coverage to protect themselves from the financial losses of an accident with an uninsured motorist.

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

Yes, some insurance companies offer discounts in Washington for drivers who have completed a safe driver course, who have multiple cars on one policy, who install anti-theft devices, and who have a good driving record.

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

Yes. Washington State law requires drivers to maintain liability insurance coverage on all registered motor vehicles. If you fail to show proof of insurance when registering your vehicle or renewing your registration, the Department of Licensing (DOL) will give you a 10-day grace period to provide proof of insurance or cancel the registration. If you do not provide proof of insurance within the 10-day grace period, your vehicle registration will be canceled and you may be subject to a financial penalty.

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

The average cost of auto insurance in Washington is $1,170 per year.

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

In order to obtain a driver’s license in Washington, you must provide proof of identity, proof of Washington State residency, Social Security number (or proof that you are not eligible for one), and proof of your legal name change if applicable. You must also provide proof of passing the knowledge and/or skills tests. If you are under 18, you must also provide a signed parental consent form. For more information, visit the Washington State Department of Licensing website.