The minimum car insurance in California is 30/60/15: $30,000 for the injury or death of one person, $60,000 for injury or death to more than one person in one accident, and $15,000 for property damage. These limits apply to policies issued or renewed since January 1, 2025, under Senate Bill 1107. They replaced the old 15/30/5 minimum.
What the minimum pays for
Only the other side. Liability coverage pays for injuries and property damage you cause to other people. It does not repair or replace your own car. That is what collision and comprehensive are for, and together with liability they are what people call full coverage.
Why 30/60/15 can run out
Limits are the most the policy will pay. In a serious accident, medical bills or a newer car can cost more than the minimum, and the amount above the limit can become the driver's problem. Higher limits cost more each month but cover more.
When you need more than the minimum
If the car is financed or leased, the lender or leasing company almost always requires collision and comprehensive for as long as they have an interest in the vehicle. Paid-off older cars are where liability only is most common.
Proof you have to carry
California requires you to have proof of insurance whenever you drive, and to show it after a collision or when a police officer asks.
If cost is the problem
The state runs the California Low Cost Automobile Insurance Program for income-eligible drivers. Monge can also compare liability-only quotes across multiple carriers so you can see the down payment and monthly cost side by side.
Get it handled in one stop
Monge quotes auto insurance across multiple carriers and handles the vehicle paperwork at the same Bloomington counter. Start with the online quote form, call (909) 440-5999, or see California Auto Insurance. Help is available in English and español.
Sources
- California Driver Handbook: Financial responsibility, insurance requirements and collisions
- California Senate Bill 1107 (2022)
- California Low Cost Automobile Insurance Program
General information, not legal advice. DMV rules and fees change; the DMV and your policy are the final word. Updated 2026-10-08.
Questions people ask
What is the minimum car insurance in California?
30/60/15: $30,000 per person and $60,000 per accident for injuries, and $15,000 for property damage.
When did California's minimum change to 30/60/15?
January 1, 2025, under Senate Bill 1107. The previous minimum was 15/30/5.
Does minimum coverage pay to fix my car?
No. Liability pays for the other driver. Collision and comprehensive pay for your car.
Is full coverage required in California?
Not by the state. A lender or leasing company usually requires it.
Will the minimum go up again?
Senate Bill 1107 schedules another increase, to 50/100/25, in 2035.
Keep reading
More answers from Monge
One call can clean up a lot.
Insurance. Registration. A clearer next step.
Tell Monge what you’re trying to accomplish and start with the right conversation.
993 W Valley Blvd #102, Bloomington, CA 92316