Minimum Coverage Requirements in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania requires minimum liability coverage of $15,000 bodily injury per person, $30,000 bodily injury per accident, and $5,000 property damage (15/30/5). Drivers convicted of DUI, suspended for violations, or involved in uninsured accidents typically must file SR-22 proof of insurance with PennDOT for 3 years. High-risk drivers often need non-standard carriers willing to accept SR-22 filings, as many standard insurers decline policies for drivers with recent major violations.
How Much Does Car Insurance Cost in Pennsylvania?
High-risk premiums in Pennsylvania vary widely based on violation type, time since the incident, driving history, and carrier underwriting. A DUI conviction typically doubles or triples rates compared to a clean record, while multiple violations or an SR-22 requirement after a suspension can push premiums into non-standard carrier territory where $200–$400/mo is common. Rates decline as you complete your SR-22 period, maintain continuous coverage, and avoid new violations.
What Affects Your Rate
- Violation type: DUI convictions carry the highest surcharges, often 200–300% above base rates for 3–5 years
- SR-22 requirement duration: longer filing periods signal higher risk to insurers
- Time since violation: rates drop significantly after 3 years for most offenses, more gradually for DUI
- Carrier type: non-standard insurers price high-risk policies higher initially but may offer better discounts for continuous coverage
- Location: urban areas like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh see higher rates due to accident frequency and uninsured driver rates
- Coverage level and deductibles: full coverage with low deductibles can triple premiums compared to minimum liability
Compare rates from carriers that work with drivers who have points
Standard carriers surcharge heavily after violations. These specialists price your specific record differently.
Get Your Free QuoteCoverage Types
Liability Insurance
Covers injuries and property damage you cause to others. Pennsylvania's 15/30/5 minimums are low — a single ER visit can exceed $15,000. Higher limits protect your assets and future income from lawsuits.
SR-22 Insurance
Certificate filed by your insurer proving continuous coverage to PennDOT. Required for DUI, suspensions, and uninsured accidents. Any lapse triggers immediate suspension.
Uninsured Motorist Coverage
Protects you when hit by a driver with no insurance or insufficient coverage. Pennsylvania allows rejection in writing, but uninsured driver rates are significant in urban areas.
Comprehensive Coverage
Covers non-collision damage: theft, vandalism, weather, animal strikes. Required by lenders; optional otherwise. High-risk drivers should evaluate whether their vehicle value justifies the cost.
Collision Coverage
Pays to repair or replace your car after an accident, regardless of fault. Required for financed vehicles. High deductibles ($1,000+) reduce premiums significantly for high-risk drivers.
Non-Standard Auto Insurance
Specialty coverage for drivers standard carriers decline: DUI convictions, SR-22 requirements, multiple violations, or long lapses. Higher premiums but flexible underwriting and payment plans.
