Minimum Coverage Requirements in New Jersey
New Jersey requires minimum liability coverage of 25/50/25: $25,000 bodily injury per person, $50,000 per accident, and $25,000 property damage. Drivers with DUI convictions, license suspensions for point accumulation, uninsured accidents, or repeat violations typically must file SR-22 proof of financial responsibility with the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission. SR-22 is not a separate policy but a certificate your insurer files electronically to verify continuous coverage. If you let coverage lapse during the SR-22 requirement period, your license suspension restarts and you face additional reinstatement fees.
How Much Does Car Insurance Cost in New Jersey?
High-risk drivers in New Jersey typically pay $200–$400/mo for liability coverage with SR-22 filing, compared to $100–$150/mo for clean-record drivers. Rates vary by violation type: DUI convictions and uninsured accidents generate the highest premiums, while point suspensions and lapses under 60 days cost less. Non-standard carriers price each violation differently, so comparing at least three quotes is critical to finding the lowest available rate.
What Affects Your Rate
- Violation type: DUI convictions and uninsured accidents increase premiums 200–300%, while point suspensions typically add 100–150%
- SR-22 filing duration: the full 3-year requirement keeps you in non-standard pricing—early violations drop off after 3–5 years but SR-22 must remain active
- Coverage lapse length: gaps over 30 days signal high risk and push you into non-standard markets with fewer carrier options
- Driving history beyond the triggering violation: multiple tickets, at-fault claims, or prior suspensions compound rate increases
- Vehicle type and usage: high-performance cars, long commutes, and business use all increase premiums for drivers already in high-risk tiers
- Credit-based insurance score: New Jersey allows insurers to use credit in underwriting, and poor credit combined with a violation can double your premium
See how much your violation actually affects your rates
Not every carrier surcharges the same way. Compare quotes from carriers that rate violations differently.
Get Your Free QuoteCoverage Types
SR-22 Insurance
Certificate filed by your insurer to the New Jersey MVC proving you maintain continuous liability coverage. Required for 3 years after DUI, suspension, or uninsured accident.
Non-Standard Auto Insurance
Policies written by carriers specializing in high-risk drivers: DUI, suspensions, lapses, multiple violations. Premiums run 150–300% higher than standard markets.
Liability Insurance
Covers injury and property damage you cause to others. New Jersey minimums are 25/50/25 but may leave you personally liable in serious accidents.
Full Coverage
Combines liability, comprehensive, and collision. Required by lenders for financed vehicles but expensive for high-risk drivers.
Uninsured Motorist Coverage
Pays medical bills and vehicle damage if you're hit by an uninsured driver. Optional in New Jersey but recommended for high-risk drivers.
Collision Coverage
Pays to repair your vehicle after an at-fault accident regardless of who caused the crash. Required by lenders but optional for paid-off cars.
