Driving Without Insurance in District of Columbia

Operating or permitting operation of a vehicle without required insurance carries a civil fine of $500 and/or a license suspension of up to 30 days for a first offense; for second and later offenses the fine increases by 50% and/or the license may be suspended up to 60 days. An owner whose registered vehicle is uninsured is fined $150 per vehicle for 1-30 days uninsured, then $7 per day, up to $2,500 per violation (the DMV Director may waive fines on proof the vehicle was not driven). The DMV suspends the registration 30 days after a notice of proposed suspension unless proof of insurance is shown and fines are paid; reinstatement requires proof of insurance, a reinstatement fee and the fine, and the vehicle may be immobilized. Making false statements about insurance, driving on a suspended registration or not returning tags can bring up to 30 days in jail (90 days for repeat offenses).

Drivers stopped by police must show their driver license, vehicle registration and proof of insurance; failing to present an insurance identification card (or other evidence) on demand carries a $30 civil fine and creates a presumption of driving uninsured. An electronic image of the insurance card on a phone or other device is accepted and does not consent to a search of the device. Insurers must report cancellations and terminations to DC DMV, which sends the owner an insurance verification notice; the owner or insurer can provide proof of other coverage through DCIVS.org. A printed copy of proof of insurance is required at the DMV to register or renew.