What are the minimum auto insurance requirements in Texas?

Driving without insurance in Texas can cost you significant criminal penalties, confiscation of your license and impounding of your car. And if you cause a car accident in Texas and do not have auto insurance, it could cost you a lot of money.

That is why, if you drive in the state of Texas, it is important to know the Texas legal requirements laws for auto insurance.

Minimum Auto Insurance Requirements For Drivers in Texas

Texas has minimum insurance laws, which means you are required to have a certain amount of insurance to be a Texas. This is known as basic coverage:

  • At least $30,000 per person to cover an injury to the body
  • At least $60,000 per accident to cover any injury to the bodies (2 or more people)
  • At least $25,000 per accident to cover any damage to the cars or other property

Alternatives To Purchasing Auto Insurance in Texas

If you are a Texas driver without auto insurance, there are other options:

Securities Deposit

You can make a securities deposit with the state Comptroller in the amount of $55,000.

You can use cash or a cashier’s check to deposit $55,000 in the same county where your car is registered, which must be made to the county judge.

Surety Bond

If you drive in Texas, instead of purchasing auto insurance you can obtain a surety bond. A surety bond is a legal contract between you and two “sureties” who own property in the state.

The sureties promise to pay the right amount of money if you are in an accident. If you get this type of bond, the sureties must promise to pay at least the same amount as Texas requires for basic coverage.

Self-Auto Insurance

Texas Drivers who don’t want to purchase standard auto insurance can have auto-insurance. However, in order to qualify for a certificate of self-insurance, you must be able to prove you own a fleet of 25 cars or more.

Proof of Insurance in Texas

It is very important to carry proof of insurance at all times. And you can end up in a lot of trouble if you drive without insurance in Texas.

Insurance companies give you these cards when you pay for your policy. It is required by Texas state law to show proof of insurance when you:

  • Register your car
  • Renew your license plates / automobile registration
  • Renew your Driver’s License
  • Get in an accident
  • Have your car inspected
  • Are asked by a police officer to produce them (usually if you are pulled over or involved in a car accident.)

Insurance companies give you updated cards every time you renew your car insurance policy. You should keep one card in your wallet, and one card in your car’s glove box.

In the event of a car accident, call Justinian and Associates.