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Minnesota is a no-fault state. Every driver must carry personal injury protection (PIP), which covers your own medical expenses and lost wages regardless of who caused the accident. Minnesota also mandates uninsured motorist coverage. The minimum liability limits are 30/60/10.
Minnesota Minimum Coverage Requirements
| Coverage | Minimum Required |
|---|---|
| Bodily injury liability (per person) | $30,000 |
| Bodily injury liability (per accident) | $60,000 |
| Property damage liability | $10,000 |
| Personal injury protection (PIP) | $40,000 |
| Uninsured motorist bodily injury (per person) | $25,000 |
| Uninsured motorist bodily injury (per accident) | $50,000 |
Expert Tip: Don't Waive UIM Coverage
Minnesota requires uninsured motorist coverage but not underinsured motorist (UIM). Given that many drivers carry only the state minimum 30/60/10 in liability, UIM is critical protection if you're seriously injured by a driver who is insured but underinsured. Always accept UIM when it's offered — it's typically inexpensive to add.
—Brad Cummins
Minnesota's $40,000 PIP minimum is among the highest in the country — $20,000 for medical expenses and $20,000 for non-medical expenses (lost wages, replacement services).
What's Required vs. Optional
Required:
- Bodily injury liability (BI) — Pays for injuries you cause to others. Does not cover you or your passengers.
- Property damage liability (PD) — Covers damage you cause to another person's vehicle or property.
- Personal injury protection (PIP) — Minnesota requires $40,000 in PIP, split between medical and non-medical expenses. See our PIP coverage guide.
- Uninsured motorist (UM) — Required at 25/50. Covers you if hit by an uninsured driver. See our UM/UIM guide.
Not required but worth considering:
- Underinsured motorist (UIM) — Not required but must be offered. Covers you if the at-fault driver's limits are insufficient.
- Collision — Covers damage to your own vehicle from a crash. Required by most lenders. See collision coverage.
- Comprehensive — Covers non-collision losses: theft, weather, animal strikes, vandalism. See comprehensive coverage.
Proof of Insurance & Vehicle Registration
Minnesota requires proof of insurance at vehicle registration and at any traffic stop. Acceptable proof includes:
- Insurance ID card (physical or digital)
- Policy declarations page
Minnesota uses an electronic verification system. Insurers report policy status to the state, and a lapse can trigger a registration suspension.
SR-22: If your license is suspended for an insurance violation or certain driving offenses, Minnesota may require an SR-22 certificate of financial responsibility. SR-22 requirements typically last three years.
Penalties for Driving Uninsured
| Violation | Consequence |
|---|---|
| First offense | Up to $1,000 fine; possible license suspension |
| Subsequent offenses | Higher fines; extended suspension; possible vehicle impoundment |
| Driving on suspended license | Additional criminal penalties |
Reinstating your license requires proof of insurance and payment of all applicable fees.
Cost of Car Insurance in Minnesota
Minnesota's average annual premium for full coverage runs roughly $1,400–$1,800 per year, depending on driver profile and location. The Twin Cities metro (Minneapolis–St. Paul) typically sees higher rates than outstate Minnesota. Winter driving conditions, hail, and deer collisions contribute to comprehensive claims statewide.
Rates vary most by:
- Driving record — At-fault accidents and major violations raise premiums significantly.
- Location — Urban areas and high-theft ZIP codes see higher rates.
- Vehicle — Financed vehicles require collision and comprehensive.
- Credit history — Minnesota allows credit-based insurance scoring.
Use our car insurance calculator to estimate your costs.
Get Free Minnesota Car Insurance Quotes
Minnesota requires UM but not UIM — which means many drivers are protected against uninsured motorists but exposed when an insured driver's limits aren't enough. If you're in a serious accident with a driver carrying only the state minimum, UIM is what bridges that gap. Let a licensed agent review your policy and ensure both coverages are in place.
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About Brad Cummins
Brad Cummins is the founder of Insurance Geek and primary author of its educational content. Licensed since 2004, he brings over 21 years of experience structuring life insurance and IUL strategies for clients nationwide.
Fact checked by Brianna Baiocco
Brianna Baiocco runs P&C operations at Insurance Geek and fact-checks property and casualty content. Licensed since 2009, she brings over 16 years of experience in auto, home, renters, and commercial insurance.
