Every driver in Texas must be able to pay for accidents they cause, and most do it by buying auto liability insurance. This guide explains the legal minimum, the coverages Texas insurers must offer, how insurance is verified, and what to consider beyond the minimum.
Texas Minimum Liability Coverage: 30/60/25
Texas law requires at least (Texas Department of Insurance):
- $30,000 for injuries per person
- $60,000 for injuries per accident
- $25,000 for property damage per accident
This is called 30/60/25 coverage. Liability insurance pays for the other driver’s injuries and vehicle damage when you are at fault. It does not pay to repair your own car.
PIP and Uninsured Motorist Coverage
Two coverages are added to Texas auto policies unless you reject them in writing (TDI):
- Personal injury protection (PIP). Every Texas auto policy includes PIP. It pays medical bills, lost wages, and some other costs for you and your passengers, regardless of who caused the accident.
- Uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM). Insurers must offer this coverage. It can pay when you are hit by a driver with no insurance or not enough insurance, and in some hit-and-run accidents. TDI notes that UM coverage will not pay for a hit-and-run if you did not report it to the police.
Before you sign a rejection form, consider what you would pay out of pocket after an accident with an uninsured driver.
Proof of Insurance and TexasSure
Texas checks auto insurance through TexasSure, a database that matches registered vehicles with insurance records. Law enforcement and vehicle registration offices use it to confirm that a vehicle is insured (TexasSure). Keep your insurance card in the vehicle or on your phone, and tell your insurer promptly when you buy or sell a car. According to TDI, your current policy usually covers a newly purchased car for about 20 days, but you should not rely on that window (TDI).
Coverage to Consider Beyond the Minimum
The legal minimum may not be enough if you cause a serious accident. If damages exceed your limits, you may be personally responsible for the difference. Common additions:
| Coverage | What it generally pays for |
|---|---|
| Higher liability limits | More protection for injuries and property damage you cause |
| Collision | Repairs to your car after a crash, minus your deductible |
| Comprehensive | Theft, hail, flood, fire, and animal damage to your car, minus your deductible |
| Rental reimbursement | A rental car while yours is repaired after a covered claim |
| Towing and labor | Roadside help, up to the policy limit |
If you have a car loan or lease, the lender will usually require collision and comprehensive. Hail is common in Texas, so check your comprehensive deductible carefully. For protection above your auto limits, see umbrella insurance.
Using Your Vehicle for Work
A personal auto policy may not cover business use, such as deliveries, carrying tools and equipment to job sites, or driving for a company. If you use a vehicle for your business, read our commercial auto checklist for Illinois and Texas businesses and the commercial auto insurance page. For trucks, see truck insurance.
Texas Auto Insurance with Cover AI
Cover AI, LLC is an independent insurance agency licensed in Texas and Illinois. A licensed agent can explain your options and help you request quotes from available carriers. You can also read how to buy auto insurance online before you start, or compare rates on TDI’s HelpInsure.com.
A quote does not bind coverage. Premiums and eligibility depend on the insurer’s underwriting and the policy issued.
This article provides general information about Texas auto insurance requirements and is not legal advice. Requirements can change. Coverage depends on the actual policy terms, conditions, and exclusions. Confirm current requirements with the Texas Department of Insurance.
