What is an FS-1 Form?

The FS 1 form is used in North Carolina to prove that you have the minimum car insurance coverage necessary to comply with state law.
Written by Jake Biderman
Reviewed by Kathleen Flear
An FS-1 form is a certificate that proves to the state of North Carolina that you have
car insurance
coverage.
If you’ve been asked to provide an FS-1, you can talk to your insurance provider to get one. But before you do that, you’ll need to ensure that you’ve purchased the
required minimum car insurance coverage for your state
.
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If you’re wondering about FS-1 form requirements, read on to learn more.

What is an FS 1 form?

The FS-1 is a form used in North Carolina to prove that you have the minimum
liability insurance
coverage you need to comply with state law. It’s similar to the
SR22
form, which other states require as proof of insurance.
The minimum insurance coverage requirements in North Carolina are often written as 30/60/25. This means you must have at least:

What state uses FS-1 forms?

The FS-1 form is used in North Carolina—and only in North Carolina.
Most states use a similar document called the
SR-22 form
. Both prove to the DMV that you have purchased the minimum amount of car insurance required by the state.

What is acceptable proof of insurance?

North Carolina accepts either an FS-1 or self-certification to provide proof of insurance.
  • The FS-1 is a certificate of insurance that you can get through an insurance company licensed in North Carolina
  • Self-certification involves providing your insurance details, including the policy number and company
In situations like accidents, police stops, or interactions with your insurance provider, self-certification will suffice. But other situations may require you to get an FS-1 to prove your coverage.
Key Takeaway The FS-1 is a proof-of-insurance form used in North Carolina.
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Why do I need an FS-1 form?

There are several reasons why you might need to get an FS-1 form from your insurance company to prove that you have coverage.

You’re registering or titling a car in North Carolina

North Carolina law requires you to provide a certificate of insurance, like an FS-1 form, to register or title any car. After purchasing a vehicle, you must register it so you can drive. You’ll also need to register your vehicle in North Carolina if you’ve moved from another state.

You need to provide proof of coverage to the state

Only an FS-1 form can provide official proof of insurance to the state. You may be asked to provide this proof if you have a license suspension resulting from an infraction like a DUI or if you’ve let your coverage lapse.

Your insurance policy was canceled, lapsed, or you’re switching providers

Your insurer is legally required to notify the DMV if your North Carolina car insurance is canceled or lapses. The authorities will then be able to track you—and you could face penalties as a result.
The FS-1 will prove to the state that you have the insurance coverage that is legally required.
Key Takeaway If you’re registering a vehicle in North Carolina, having your license reinstated after a suspension, or you let your policy lapse, you may need an FS 1 form.
MORE: What is considered a lapse in insurance for auto insurance companies?

How do I submit my FS-1?

The easiest way is to ask your car insurance company to submit your FS-1 form to the DMV electronically. Alternatively, you can obtain your FS-1 from your insurer and fax it to the DMV yourself.

How to find car insurance coverage fast

If you’ve been asked to provide an FS-1, you might need to find
cheap car insurance
coverage fast. Letting your coverage lapse for as little as a week could increase your car insurance rates by about $130 a year—and the longer it’s lapsed, the more you’ll pay.
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Frequently asked questions

Do I need to have an FS-1 if I don’t live in North Carolina?

No, but you might be asked to provide a similar form called SR-22, which serves as a certificate of insurance in other states.

How do I prove my liability coverage?

If you live in North Carolina, you can use an FS-1 or self-certification to prove your liability insurance coverage. In some situations, you may only be able to use an FS-1.
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