Driving Without Insurance in Washington
Fines, license and registration suspension, and SR-22 requirements for driving uninsured in Washington.
Short answer: Driving without required insurance, or failing to provide proof, is a traffic infraction, with the penalty set by Washington Supreme Court rule (RCW 46.63.110) or community restitution. Rev. Code Wash. § 46.30.020(1)(d)
| Driving without insurance | Driving without required insurance, or failing to provide proof, is a traffic infraction, with the penalty set by Washington Supreme Court rule (RCW 46.63.110) or community restitution. |
|---|---|
| Proof of insurance | Drivers must show proof of insurance when a law enforcement officer asks; failing to display it creates a presumption of no insurance. Proof can be shown on a portable electronic device, and the officer may view only the proof. Insurers issue a proof-of-insurance card at the start or renewal of a policy. A cited driver who shows the court that coverage was in effect at the time gets the citation dismissed (court may charge $25 administrative costs). |
More Washington car insurance & vehicle laws
- Minimum Car Insurance in Washington
- SR-22 Insurance in Washington
- When a Car Is a Total Loss in Washington
- Transferring a Car Title in Washington
- All Washington car insurance & vehicle laws rules
FAQ
What is the penalty for driving without insurance in Washington?
Driving without required insurance, or failing to provide proof, is a traffic infraction, with the penalty set by Washington Supreme Court rule (RCW 46.63.110) or community restitution.
Can you show proof of car insurance on your phone in Washington?
Drivers must show proof of insurance when a law enforcement officer asks; failing to display it creates a presumption of no insurance. Proof can be shown on a portable electronic device, and the officer may view only the proof. Insurers issue a proof-of-insurance card at the start or renewal of a policy. A cited driver who shows the court that coverage was in effect at the time gets the citation dismissed (court may charge $25 administrative costs).
General legal information, not legal advice. Laws change and local rules can differ; check the linked official source or talk to a lawyer about your situation.