North Carolina auto insurance minimum requirements

What are the minimum auto insurance requirements in NC?

North Carolina requires: $30,000 bodily injury liability per person, $60,000 bodily injury liability per accident, $25,000 property damage liability, and uninsured motorist coverage equal to your liability limits (minimum 50/100/50 UM/UIM). These are the legal minimums.

What happens if you drive without insurance in NC?

NC uses an insurance verification system. Driving without insurance can result in license and registration suspension, a $50 civil penalty for the first offense, and $100 for subsequent offenses, plus reinstatement fees. Your vehicle registration can be revoked.

Are NC's minimum auto insurance limits enough?

For most people, no. A serious accident with injuries can easily produce medical costs well above $50,000 per person or $100,000 per accident. If damages exceed your limits, you are personally liable for the excess. Most agents recommend at least 100/300/100 limits.

Does NC require comprehensive and collision coverage?

No. Comprehensive and collision are optional in NC unless required by your lender (which they typically are for financed or leased vehicles). They cover your own vehicle, NC law only requires liability and UM/UIM, which protect others.