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California car insurance
Getting car insurance in California
Getting car insurance in California starts with understanding the state's coverage requirements and unique insurance laws. California is the most populated state in the country, which means heavy traffic and a high number of accidents in many areas, which can affect rates.
Progressive helps California drivers navigate these factors and more with flexible coverage options and transparent pricing. Our easy-to-use tools help drivers compare coverage and find ways to save.
What are the minimum auto insurance requirements in California?
California currently requires drivers to carry the following auto insurance coverages.
Coverage
|
Coverage |
What it covers |
Minimum amount |
|---|---|---|
|
Bodily injury liability |
What it covers
Injuries you cause to others in an accident |
Minimum amount
$30,000 per person |
|
Property damage liability |
What it covers
Damage you cause to someone else's vehicle or other property in an accident |
Minimum amount
$15,000 per accident |
California also requires insurers to offer uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) bodily injury coverage, but you may reject this coverage or choose lower limits in writing.
Coverage
|
Coverage |
What it covers |
|---|---|
|
Medical payments (MedPay) |
What it covers
Medical and funeral expenses for you and covered household members after an accident |
|
Comprehensive |
What it covers
Cost to repair or replace your car if it's damaged by hail, fire, theft, wind, flood, vandalism, and other covered events |
|
Collision |
What it covers
Cost to repair your vehicle if it overturns or collides with another vehicle or object |
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Car insurance discounts in California
Car insurance discounts in California can help lower your rate based on how you drive, the vehicle insured, and how you manage your policy. Progressive offers a variety of discounts to help California drivers get a better deal on car insurance. Popular discounts available in California include:
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Multi-car
Save when you have more than one vehicle listed on your policy. You can add any car to your auto policy (such as your spouse's, family member's, or roommate's), as long as it's kept primarily at your address.
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Multi-policy
Save when you have two or more policies with Progressive. For instance, if you carry auto and boat insurance with us, you'll enjoy a discount on your auto policy.
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Snapshot
Snapshot uses driving data from the Progressive mobile app or plug-in device to personalize your rate. Safer driving habits can help you save.
What is the average cost of car insurance in California?
The average cost of car insurance in California is generally lower than the national average. Based on Progressive's internal data, California falls into a group of states that have lower auto insurance costs overall with an average of $87.56 per month.† That amount is based on a six-month, liability-only policy with one vehicle and one driver.
Factors that impact your auto insurance rate in California
Many factors impact how much you pay for auto insurance in California, including:
- Driving history: Tickets, accidents, and prior claims can affect your rate.
- Annual mileage: Insurers consider how much you drive when setting rates.
- Vehicle type: Your car's make, model, age, safety technology, and repair costs are factored into your price. Some insurers offer discounts for hybrid or electric vehicles.
- Location: Traffic density, accident frequency, theft rates, and local weather risks in your area can influence rates.
- Uninsured drivers: California has a higher rate of uninsured drivers compared to the rest of the country, which can increase overall risk.
- Coverage choices and deductibles: The coverages you select, your limits, and your deductible amounts affect your premium.
Recommended additional auto insurance coverages in California
California requires bodily injury and property damage liability coverage, but these coverages may not cover all costs after an accident. Adding optional coverages can deliver extra protection, help fill gaps in your policy, and give you peace of mind:
Coverage
|
Coverage |
What it covers |
|---|---|
|
Medical payments (MedPay) |
What it covers
Medical and funeral expenses for you and covered household members after an accident |
|
Comprehensive |
What it covers
Cost to repair or replace your car if it's damaged by hail, fire, theft, wind, flood, vandalism, and other covered events |
|
Collision |
What it covers
Cost to repair your vehicle if it overturns or collides with another vehicle or object |
California driving resources
Learn more about California's driving laws and insurance requirements. Keep in mind that local governments may have additional rules or requirements.
- California Department of Insurance: Visit the regulator's site for consumer protections resources, insurance licensing information, and guides on understanding your rights and coverage in California.
- California Department of Motor Vehicles: Find official information on driver licensing, vehicle registration, and California driving laws.
- California Driver's Handbook: Access the official guide to California's driving rules, road signs, and safe driving practices.
- California DMV fast facts: Find quick, easy-to-read summaries of key driving laws, safety tips, and other important information from the California DMV.
How to get car insurance in California with Progressive
Progressive makes it easy for California drivers to compare coverage options and get a competitive auto insurance quote.
How to get car insurance in California with Progressive
Progressive makes it easy for California drivers to compare coverage options, and get a competitive auto insurance quote.
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Go online
We ask easy questions, and you customize your coverages.
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Call a rep
Talk with a licensed representative who can guide you through the process.
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Through an agent
Connect with an independent agent in your area.
What else needs protection in California?
California car insurance FAQs
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No, California uses a fault-based auto insurance system. The driver who causes an accident pays for the other person's injuries and property damage through their liability coverage.
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