2024 State Minimums & Coverage Laws

NJ Auto Insurance Requirements

Complete guide to New Jersey's auto insurance requirements. Understand state minimums, PIP coverage, penalties, and how to ensure you're properly covered.

State Minimums

New Jersey Minimum Auto Insurance Requirements

Every driver in New Jersey must carry these minimum coverage amounts to legally drive

Coverage TypePer PersonPer Accident

Bodily Injury Liability

Covers injuries to others in accidents you cause

$15,000$30,000

Property Damage Liability

Covers damage to other vehicles or property

$5,000$5,000

Personal Injury Protection (PIP)

Covers your medical expenses regardless of fault

$15,000$15,000

Uninsured Motorist

Protects you from uninsured drivers

$15,000$30,000

Important: These minimums are often insufficient to cover serious accidents. Consider higher limits to protect your assets.

PIP Coverage

Understanding NJ Personal Injury Protection (PIP)

PIP is mandatory in New Jersey and covers medical expenses for you and your passengers

What PIP Covers

  • Medical expenses up to your chosen limit
  • Lost wages (up to 70% with income continuation)
  • Essential services (childcare, household help)
  • Death benefits ($5,000)
  • Coverage regardless of fault

PIP Options & Choices

Medical Expense Limit

$15,000$50,000$75,000$150,000$250,000

Higher limits provide better protection

Deductible

$0$250$500$1,000$2,500

Higher deductibles lower your premium

Health Insurance Primary

YesNo

Using health insurance first can reduce costs

Income Continuation

None70% up to $100/weekEssential Services

Covers lost wages or household help

Penalties

Penalties for Driving Without Insurance in NJ

New Jersey has strict penalties for uninsured driving - don't risk it

First Offense - No Insurance

License suspension, $300-$1,000 fine, community service

Second Offense

2-year license suspension, $500-$5,000 fine, 30 days jail

False Insurance Card

Up to $1,000 fine, possible jail time

Lapse in Coverage

$250 restoration fee, possible suspension

Don't risk these penalties. Get insured today and stay protected.

Smart Coverage

Recommended Coverage Levels Beyond Minimums

Most experts recommend coverage well above state minimums for proper protection

Basic Protection

50/100/50

$125-175

Budget-conscious drivers with minimal assets

Standard Protection

100/300/100

$175-250

Homeowners and families with moderate assets

Premium Protection

250/500/250

$250-350

High-income earners and significant assets

Optional Coverage

Additional Coverage Options to Consider

Collision

Covers damage to your car in an accident

Required for financed/leased vehicles

Comprehensive

Covers theft, vandalism, weather damage

Required for financed/leased vehicles

Underinsured Motorist

Extra protection when at-fault driver lacks coverage

Highly recommended but not required

Medical Payments

Additional medical coverage beyond PIP

Optional but valuable

Special Cases

Special Insurance Situations in NJ

New Residents

Requirement: Must get NJ insurance within 60 days of moving

Tip: Register your vehicle first, then get insurance

Teen Drivers

Requirement: Must be added to parent's policy or get own coverage

Tip: Good student discounts can save 15-25%

SR-22 Required

Requirement: Must maintain for 3 years after serious violations

Tip: We specialize in SR-22 filings

Classic/Antique Cars

Requirement: May qualify for special limited-use policies

Tip: Much cheaper if driven under 2,500 miles/year

FAQs

NJ Auto Insurance Requirements FAQs

What is the minimum car insurance required in NJ?

New Jersey requires: $15,000/$30,000 bodily injury liability, $5,000 property damage liability, $15,000 PIP (Personal Injury Protection), and $15,000/$30,000 uninsured motorist coverage. This is often written as 15/30/5.

What is PIP coverage and why is it required in NJ?

Personal Injury Protection (PIP) is no-fault coverage that pays for your medical expenses, lost wages, and essential services regardless of who caused the accident. NJ requires it because it ensures immediate medical care without waiting for fault determination.

Can I drive in NJ without insurance?

No. Driving without insurance in NJ is illegal and results in severe penalties including license suspension, fines up to $5,000, community service, and possible jail time. The state uses an electronic verification system to catch uninsured drivers.

Is NJ minimum coverage enough?

While it meets legal requirements, minimum coverage often isn't enough. The $5,000 property damage limit is very low - most accidents exceed this. We recommend at least 50/100/50 coverage to better protect your assets.

What happens if my insurance lapses in NJ?

Insurance lapses are reported electronically to the state. You'll face a $250 restoration fee and possible license suspension. Your insurance rates will also increase. Always maintain continuous coverage or surrender your plates if not driving.

Do I need uninsured motorist coverage if I have PIP?

Yes. PIP only covers medical expenses, while uninsured motorist coverage protects you for pain and suffering, lost wages beyond PIP limits, and property damage caused by uninsured drivers. It's required and important protection.

Make Sure You Meet NJ Requirements

Get properly covered with the right insurance for your needs. Our experts help you understand requirements and find the best coverage.

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