California Minimum Car Insurance: The 30/60/15 Law Explained
Key Takeaways
- Since January 1, 2025, California’s minimum liability limits are 30/60/15, up from 15/30/5.
- The change came from Senate Bill 1107, the first increase to the minimums since 1967.
- Every policy issued or renewed since then must meet the new minimums.
- The minimums will rise again to 50/100/25 in 2035.
- The minimum is a legal floor, not a recommendation. A serious accident can cost much more.
If you drive in California, your car insurance must meet the state’s minimum liability limits. Those limits doubled in 2025. Here’s what changed and what it means for you.
What Does 30/60/15 Mean?
| Number | What It Covers | New Minimum | Old Minimum |
|---|---|---|---|
| 30 | Injury or death to one person | $30,000 | $15,000 |
| 60 | Injury or death to all people in one accident | $60,000 | $30,000 |
| 15 | Damage to other people’s property | $15,000 | $5,000 |
These limits are for liability, which pays for injuries and damage you cause to others. Liability does not pay to repair your own car.
Who Is Affected?
- Every driver in California with a personal auto policy
- Policies issued or renewed on or after January 1, 2025 must include at least 30/60/15
- If you had minimum coverage before 2025, your policy was raised to the new limits at renewal, which may have increased your premium
The minimums are scheduled to increase again in 2035, to 50/100/25.
Why the Minimum May Not Be Enough
Medical bills and car repairs in California can be expensive. If you cause a serious accident, the costs can quickly exceed $30,000 per person or $15,000 in property damage. Anything above your limits can become your personal responsibility.
Examples of costs that can exceed the minimum:
- Hospital stays and surgeries for injured people
- Damage to a newer car or several cars in one accident
- Legal costs if you’re sued
Higher limits usually cost less than most drivers expect. Ask your agent to compare the price of the minimum with higher limits.
Other Coverage to Consider
- Uninsured/underinsured motorist: protects you if the other driver has no insurance or too little
- Collision: repairs your own car after a crash
- Comprehensive: covers theft, vandalism, fire, and weather damage
- Medical payments: helps pay medical bills for you and your passengers
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the minimum car insurance in California?
Since January 1, 2025, the minimum is $30,000 for injury to one person, $60,000 for injuries per accident, and $15,000 for property damage (30/60/15).
When did California’s minimum car insurance change?
The new 30/60/15 minimums took effect on January 1, 2025, under Senate Bill 1107.
Will California’s minimum insurance increase again?
Yes. The minimums are scheduled to increase to 50/100/25 in 2035.
Does the minimum insurance cover my own car?
No. Liability only pays for injuries and damage you cause to others. To cover your own car, you need collision and comprehensive coverage.
Is minimum coverage enough in California?
It keeps you legal, but a serious accident can cost much more than the minimum limits. Many drivers choose higher limits to protect their savings.
Review Your Coverage Today
Our bilingual agents can check your policy, explain your limits, and compare options in minutes.
Learn more about our auto insurance in California, request a free auto insurance quote, or call us at (800) 924-7070. You can also visit one of our 10 offices in Southern California.
