Penalties for driving without insurance
You must be able to show proof of insurance
or financial responsibility in the state of Pennsylvania whenever you get behind the wheel. Failure to do so can result in fines, driver's license suspension
, motor vehicle registration suspension, and possible vehicle impoundment—plus higher car insurance premiums for the policyholder. Penalties for driving without insurance
in Pennsylvania: These charges apply to all offenses, regardless whether it’s your first or subsequent.
Three-month suspension for vehicle registration
Three-month license suspension
Potential vehicle impoundment
Drivers will also be required to pay a $94 restoration fee for their registration, and a $100 license reinstatement fee.
To avoid license and registration suspensions, motorists can pay a $500 civil penalty.
If you have insurance but are unable to provide proof at the time of the incident, you can avoid fines by sending your insurance ID or declaration page to the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT).
FAQs
Do you need comprehensive insurance in PA?
Comprehensive coverage isn’t mandatory in Pennsylvania unless your car is financed or leased—however, it is a worthy inclusion to your insurance policy. As part of a full coverage package, comprehensive insurance will provide your vehicle with protection against non-collision related events, such as theft, vandalism, and severe weather.
How long can you go without car insurance before being penalized in PA?
It’s never a good idea to go without car insurance. Driving without insurance comes with hefty fines in Pennsylvania, and any lapse in coverage
can impact your insurance rates when you go searching for a new policy. What happens if the person at-fault in an accident has no insurance in PA?
If you get into an accident in Pennsylvania and the at-fault party doesn’t have insurance, you can still recover compensation for your losses through your own insurance provider if you have collision coverage—and if you have a full tort insurance policy and sustain injuries, you may be able to sue for pain and suffering.