Driving without insurance can be a costly mistake—literally. Whether you’ve misplaced your proof of coverage or never had any, getting caught without insurance can lead to hefty fines, license suspensions, and even vehicle impoundment. But how much is a ticket for no insurance, exactly? It depends on where you are. Below, we break down the typical fines in each state and what you can expect in 2025.
What you need to know:
- Driving without insurance is illegal in every US state except New Hampshire (where proof of financial responsibility is still required).
- Fines for a no insurance ticket in 2025 typically range from $100 to over $1,000.
- In most states, you’ll also face additional penalties like license suspension, vehicle impoundment, or SR-22 insurance requirements.
- Even just forgetting to carry proof of insurance can lead to a fine—though it’s usually much smaller if you’re actually insured..
Driving without insurance can lead to steep fines, but it’s not the only costly traffic offense. If you’re curious about how other violations compare, check out our guide on How Much is a DUI Ticket? to see how penalties stack up.
How Much is a No Insurance Ticket in 2025?
The total cost of driving without insurance depends on your state. Here are estimated fine ranges by state:
| State | First Offense Fine | Other Penalties |
|---|---|---|
| Texas | $175 – $350 | + $250 annual surcharge for 3 years |
| California | $100 – $200 | + penalty assessments (totaling up to $900) |
| Georgia | $200 – $1,000 | + up to 12 months jail & license suspension |
| Illinois | $500 – $1,000 | + license plate suspension |
| Michigan | $200 – $500 | + license suspension & $125 reinstatement fee |
| Mississippi | $500 | + license suspension until proof provided |
| Missouri | $300 – $500 | + 4 points on driving record |
| Alabama | $500 | + 45-day registration suspension |
| Arkansas | $50 – $250 | + registration suspension |
| Louisiana | $500 – $1,000 | + vehicle impoundment |
| Oklahoma | $250 | + up to 30 days jail & license suspension |
| Tennessee | $300 | + license suspension |
| Arizona | $500 – $1,000 | + license & registration suspension |
| Washington State | $550 | + license suspension possible |
| Minnesota | $200 – $1,000 | + 90-day license revocation |
| Iowa | $250 | + impoundment until proof of insurance |
| Colorado | $500 | + 4 points & SR-22 required |
| New York | Up to $1,500 | + license & registration revocation |
| Montana | $250 – $500 | + up to 10 days jail |
| Utah | $400 minimum | + suspension & SR-22 |
| Wisconsin | $500 | + vehicle registration suspension |
| Idaho | $75 – $1,000 | + SR-22 & 6-month license suspension |
No Insurance vs. No Proof of Insurance
It’s important to distinguish between not having insurance and not being able to prove you have insurance:
- No Insurance: Higher fines, possible impoundment, and SR-22 requirement.
- No Proof (but you are insured): Usually $25 – $100, waived if you show proof later.
What Happens After a No Insurance Ticket?
In most states, a no insurance ticket doesn’t just stop at the fine. You may also have to:
- File an **SR-22 form** (proof of future insurance) for 3 years.
- Pay **higher insurance premiums**—sometimes double or triple your previous rate.
- Have your **driver’s license suspended** until you provide proof of coverage.
Can You Beat a No Insurance Ticket?
Yes—if you actually had insurance at the time, but just didn’t have proof, bring the valid documents to court. Many jurisdictions will dismiss or reduce the ticket. If you truly weren’t insured, though, most states are strict, and paying the fine plus future compliance is your best course.
Tips to Avoid Hefty Fines
- Always keep a copy of your insurance card in your car or saved on your phone.
- Renew your policy on time and set calendar reminders.
- If switching providers, avoid any coverage gap—even one day can get you fined.