California law sets minimum liability insurance requirements that every driver must carry.
As of 2025, these minimum limits have been increased to:
- $30,000 for bodily injury or death to one person in an accident.
- $60,000 for bodily injury or death to two or more persons in an accident
(this is the total per accident — no more than $30k per person, but up to $60k total). - $15,000 for property damage per accident.
📌 These are often written as “30/60/15”.
💡 Practical Meaning of “30/60/15”
If you cause an accident, your insurance will:
- Pay up to $30,000 for injuries to one person.
- Pay up to $60,000 total if multiple people are injured.
- Pay up to $15,000 for property damage (e.g., cars, fences, buildings).
🧾 Example:
-
You injure 2 people:
- One has $50,000 in medical bills.
- Another has $20,000.
- Total: $70,000
- Insurance pays $60,000 max → You’re responsible for the extra $10,000.
-
You total someone’s $40,000 car:
- Insurance pays $15,000.
- You owe the remaining $25,000 unless you have higher coverage.
📈 These Are the Minimum – Not “Good” Coverage
Medical and vehicle costs are high. Many drivers choose higher limits like 100/300/50 or more for better protection.
⚖️ Legal Alternatives to Insurance
Instead of a policy, you may show financial responsibility by:
- 💵 $75,000 cash deposit with the DMV.
- 📄 Surety bond of $75,000 from a CA-licensed company.
- 🧾 DMV self-insurance certificate (for companies or fleet owners).
For most people, buying a standard policy is the simplest and safest method.
🪪 Proof Required
You must carry proof of insurance (either:
- A paper card, or
- Electronic proof on your phone)
and show it: - When asked by police, or
- After a collision.