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What are the penalties for a fake insurance card in Michigan?

My friend told me he doesn’t pay for his Michigan car insurance—he uses a fake insurance card when he drives. What are the penalties if he’s caught?

avatar
Andrea Barrett · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
If you’re caught with a
fake insurance card
in Michigan, you could be charged with felony insurance fraud. Punishments include fines of up to $50,000 and up to four years in jail, plus penalties for driving without insurance.
Driving without insurance is classified as a misdemeanor, so penalties are less severe, but still serious, and include:
  • Driver’s license and registration suspension
  • Up to one year in jail
  • Fines and fees up to $500
If your friend is insured, but is unable to provide
proof of insurance
, he will receive an administrative violation citation and be required to pay a $25 fee. He may also be subject to additional fines if this isn’t his first offense. 
The odds of getting away with driving uninsured become slimmer every day. Several states (including Michigan) allow police departments to scan license plates automatically to check for everything from potential warrants to compliance with Michigan insurance laws. 
DMVs also require insurance companies to inform them when a vehicle is insured or not. They’ll share this info with the police, so there’s a good chance your friend could
get caught
.
View full answer 
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