New York Car Insurance Requirements (2024)

Welcome to our comprehensive guide on New York car insurance regulations and required coverage. Understanding the specific requirements set by the state is crucial to drive legally and confidently on the road.

In this article, we cover key topics such as liability insurance, personal injury protection , and other essential coverage options. Stay informed and ensure you have the appropriate insurance coverage for your vehicle, protecting yourself and others.

To find the best policy that meets your needs, enter your ZIP code now and compare rates from the top insurance providers. Don’t miss out on securing the right coverage at the best price. Your journey to finding the ideal New York car insurance starts here.

Proof of Insurance and Financial Responsibility

Establishing proof of insurance and financial responsibility

• Get a standard liability car insurance policy

Required Documentation

Even though your car insurance company is required to file your coverage electronically with the DMV, you are also required to maintain paper proof as well.

In order to provide proof of insurance, you can provide one of the following:

• Insurance ID Cards (your insurance company or agent is required to provide you with 2)

You must maintain proof of insurance and financial responsibility and present it:

• When asked by a police officer
• After an accident
• When registering the vehicle
• Anytime you are operating a vehicle

Failure to Maintain Financial Responsibility Penalties

If you are unable to show proof of insurance when asked, you can face one of the following penalties:

• Suspension of your driver’s license
• Suspension of your registration
• If you are involved in an accident without insurance regardless of fault, the state will revoke both your license and vehicle’s registration for 1 year.

• A fine of up to $1,500 and an additional civil penalty of $750 when receiving your license back.

New York Car Insurance Regulations & Required Coverage: Bottom Line

NYS auto insurance laws require you to maintain at least the minimum coverage for your vehicle, You need to immediately turn in your license plates to the DMV. If your coverage lapses, and you do not return your plates, the DMV will suspend your registration for the same number of days that you did not have coverage. If this exceeds 90 days, your license will also be suspended for the same amount of time, and you will need to pay a $25 fee to reinstate your license.

To submit your plates, you can mail them to:

NYS DMV, Port Jefferson Office

3 Roads Plaza

1055 Route 112

Port Jefferson Station, NY 11776-3054

If you do not turn in your plates, and it has been 90 days or less, you can avoid suspension of your registration, but will be required to pay a fee. The rates are as follows:

• 1 – 30 days: $8 per day
• 31 – 60 days: $10 per day
• 61 – 90 days: $12 per day

You can only save yourself from having your registration suspended once every 3 years.