Can You Register a Car Without Insurance?

In most states, you need to show proof of insurance when you register your car with the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). But there are some exceptions.

Learn where you can register your car without insurance and what you need to provide to complete your vehicle registration.

Do You Need Insurance to Register a Car?

In most cases, the answer is yes. You must have at least the minimum amount of car insurance your state requires to register your vehicle with the DMV.

However, there are a few states where you don’t need to show proof of insurance to complete your vehicle registration. Registration and insurance requirements vary by state, so it’s a good idea to find out your state’s requirements.

What States Do Not Require Insurance to Register a Car?

While you need insurance to register a car in most states, there are some exceptions. You don’t need insurance to register a vehicle in the following states:

• Arizona
• Mississippi
• New Hampshire
• North Dakota
• Tennessee
• Virginia
• Washington
• Wisconsin

However, if you plan on driving your car after you register it, you need insurance in all of these states except New Hampshire and Virginia. Jump down to see information about New Hampshire and Virginia below.

Do You Need Insurance to Drive a Car?

Nearly every state in the country requires drivers to have liability coverage before they get behind the wheel. Some states require other types of coverage, such as uninsured/underinsured motorist and personal injury protection (PIP) or medical payments (MedPay).

Currently, you don’t need auto insurance to drive in New Hampshire and Virginia legally. However, both states do have financial responsibility laws. In New Hampshire, some — but not all — drivers may be required to file an SR-22 form to show they have insurance to meet the financial responsibility requirement.

In Virginia, you can meet the financial responsibility requirement by:

• Purchasing liability coverage. If you buy insurance, you must have bodily injury coverage of at least $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident. You must also have $20,000 in property damage liability coverage per accident.
• Purchasing a surety bond or getting a self-insurance certificate from the DMV.
• Paying an uninsured motor vehicle fee. The fee is $500. Paying it will allow you to drive in Virginia legally, but it won’t help cover expenses if you’re in an accident.

What Happens if You Drive Uninsured?

It depends on where you live. Different states have different penalties. In many states, driving without insurance is a misdemeanor, and you could be subject to:

• Fines, which may range from $25 to $2,500 and are typically higher for repeat offenders.
• Suspension of your license and/or registration. If your license or registration gets suspended, you’ll likely have to pay to get them reinstated. And that’s on top of any other fines you might face.
• Jail time
• Vehicle impoundment
• Filing an SR-22 to prove you have insurance
• Community service

There is no penalty for driving uninsured in New Hampshire. Uninsured Virginia drivers must pay a fee of $500 if they want to register a car and drive without insurance.

What Do You Need to Drive a Car?

The requirements for driving a car vary based on the state where you live. But in general, you need the following:

• A valid driver’s license
• Proof of insurance
• Current vehicle registration
• Safety inspection (requirements vary based on the type of vehicle you purchase)
• Emissions test (requirements vary based on the type of vehicle you purchase)

How to Register a Car

If you buy a car from the dealership, they often handle the registration process for you. But if you buy a vehicle from a private party or move and need to register your vehicle in a different state, you’ll be responsible for registering your car. The vehicle registration process varies based on where you live, so it’s important to check with your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles. But typically, here’s what you can expect.

1. Get your vehicle inspected. If you buy a new car, you may be able to skip this step. But if you purchase a used vehicle or need to register your vehicle in a new state, you’ll likely need to get it inspected.
2. Pass an emissions test. You may be able to register a new vehicle without an emissions test. But if you buy a used car, you may need to get one.
3. Gather the necessary documents. Requirements vary by state, but you’ll typically need proof of insurance, your driver’s license, bill of sale, title, and registration fee.
4. Make an appointment at the DMV. Some states let you register fully online, but many require you to complete the process in person. However, you may be able to fill out much of the paperwork online to reduce the amount of time you spend at the DMV. Scheduling an appointment in advance can help you to avoid long wait times.

After your vehicle is registered, you’ll receive your license plates and registration card.

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