State guide
Insurance in Washington
Required coverage, penalties, official contacts and sources for Washington, reviewed 2026-10.
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Car insurance
What Washington requires.
Liability 25/50/10, or an approved alternative. Claims system: fault-based claims.
| Coverage | Requirement in Washington |
|---|---|
| Bodily injury liability | $25,000 for injury or death to another person / $50,000 for all other people |
| Property damage liability | $10,000 for damage to another person's property |
| Injury protection | Personal injury protection (PIP) is optional coverage |
| Uninsured / underinsured motorist | Not listed as required |
Required coverage
- Carry liability insurance with limits of at least $25,000 for injury or death to another person, $50,000 for injuries or death to all other people, and $10,000 for damage to another person's property
- Or apply for a certificate of deposit with the Department of Licensing to pay for your liability
- Or have a liability bond of at least $60,000 filed by a surety bond company authorized to do business in Washington
Other coverage commonly available
- Personal injury protection (PIP)
- Collision
- Comprehensive
- Uninsured/underinsured motorist
If you drive without required coverage
Driving without the required insurance can bring a fine of $550 or more, according to the Department of Licensing. Failing to show proof of insurance is a traffic infraction, and knowingly providing false evidence of coverage is a misdemeanor. If you are at fault in a collision without insurance, your license may be suspended if you fail to pay the resulting damages or injuries.
Notices
What to know in Washington.
- Washington's mandatory liability law requires anyone who drives in the state to meet the financial responsibility requirement in one of three ways: liability insurance, a certificate of deposit with the Department of Licensing, or a surety bond of at least $60,000.
- Your insurance company sends you a proof-of-insurance card when you start or renew your policy.
- PIP is optional coverage you can add to your auto policy. The Office of the Insurance Commissioner says it can help pay for additional costs if you or your passengers are injured in an auto accident.
- Since July 28, 2019, motorcycle drivers have been required to carry liability coverage and proof of insurance.
- Under RCW 46.30.020, proof of financial responsibility must be provided when a law enforcement officer asks for it. Failing to provide it is a traffic infraction.
General information only. It is not legal advice. Rules change, so confirm with the official sources listed below.
Home insurance
Start with the Office of the Insurance Commissioner
- Standard homeowners policies typically exclude flood. Flood coverage is bought separately, including through the National Flood Insurance Program.
- The Office of the Insurance Commissioner is the state authority for questions about insurers, agents and complaints.
Health insurance
Washington Healthplanfinder
Washington Healthplanfinder (state-based marketplace)
- CMS lists Washington as a state-based exchange for plan year 2026. State marketplaces can set their own enrollment dates, so confirm them on the marketplace site.
Contacts
Who to contact.
- Washington State Office of the Insurance Commissioner
- Website: insurance.wa.gov
- NAIC directory of state insurance departments
Sources
Where this summary comes from.
Reviewed 2026-10. Check each source for the current rule.
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