What is the Penalty for Driving Without Insurance in Texas?

What is the Penalty for Driving Without Insurance in Texas?

TGS Insurance » Blog » Auto Insurance Resources » Driving Without Insurance in Texas

Uninsured Motorists Face Big Consequences

Yes, there IS a penalty for driving without insurance, and unfortunately it happens every day. Most recent estimates show that over 8% of Texas motorists are driving without the state’s minimum 30/60/25 liability coverage. That’s about 2 million drivers on Texas roads without insurance. The consequences include hefty fines, vehicle impoundment, suspension of driving privileges, and more.

Sources: Insurance Information Institute and Texas Department of Motor Vehicles

Is Driving Without Insurance a
Misdemeanor in Texas?

broken piggy bank

Yes! While you are unlikely to face jail time for this misdemeanor, the fines, fees and hassles of driving without insurance aren’t worth it.

What Is the Penalty for Driving Without Insurance in Texas?

Penalties for First Offense

The state of Texas does not take driving without insurance lightly. If you are caught driving without insurance, penalties for first-time offenders include:

  • Fines from $175 to $350
  • License renewal surcharge of $250 per year for 3 years
  • Increased premiums when you do get proper insurance because you are now a high-risk driver
  • SR-22 requirement imposed

Penalties for Repeat Offenders

If you don’t learn your lesson the first time, Texas law really cracks down. Penalties for repeat offenders include:

  • Fines from $350 to $1,000
  • License renewal surcharge of $250 per year for 3 years 
  • Increased premiums when you do get proper insurance because you are now a high-risk driver
  • SR-22 requirement imposed
  • Suspension of vehicle registration and/or driver’s license
  • Vehicle impoundment for up to 180 days at $15 per day ($2,700 in total)

Do Uninsured Motorists Get Caught
Without Getting in an Accident?

license and proof of insurance

Yes! Since Texassure was established in 2008, law enforcement can and will ask for proof of insurance during a traffic stop.

What Happens if I’m in a Wreck Without Insurance in Texas?

If you decide to drive without proper auto insurance and then you cause an accident, you are liable for the damages. Being liable, or financially responsible, means that whoever is involved in the accident could go after your assets to cover the cost of the damages. To top it off, you will receive a ticket for driving without insurance and face the consequences in full. You will also need someone with insurance to come to drive your vehicle after the wreck, or you risk vehicle impoundment.

Save Yourself the Headache and Find Insurance on Your Budget

Not having auto insurance can be a costly mistake. The fines, fees, suspension of driving privileges and even potential lawsuits for financial liability in a wreck really add up. TGS Insurance customers in Texas pay as little as $1,000 for their minimum liability insurance annual premium. That’s about how much it will cost you for just one offense of driving without insurance, and only 1/4 of the hefty fees for a repeat offense. Let the experts at TGS Insurance do the work for you to get the coverage you need on your budget. The first step is a free auto insurance quote. Start your road to savings today!