Pennsylvania law requires every registered vehicle to carry a minimum level of auto insurance. Whether you drive a car, truck, or motorcycle in PA, here's exactly what you need to stay legal — and what most drivers choose to add for real protection.
What PA Requires
Pennsylvania is a choice no-fault state, which means you pick a system when you buy your policy:
- Full tort — you keep the right to sue for pain and suffering after an accident.
- Limited tort — lower premiums, but your ability to sue is restricted unless injuries are serious.
Regardless of which you choose, the state minimums are:
- Bodily injury liability: $15,000 per person / $30,000 per accident
- Property damage liability: $5,000 per accident
- Medical benefits (PIP): $5,000 minimum
Why Minimum Coverage Usually Isn't Enough
The state minimums were set years ago and haven't kept up with the cost of medical care or vehicle repairs. A single ER visit can easily exceed $15,000 — meaning you could be personally liable for the remainder if you cause an accident.
Most agents in PA recommend at least $100,000/$300,000 in bodily injury coverage for everyday drivers. The difference in premium is often less than $10/month.
What About Uninsured Motorists?
Pennsylvania does not require uninsured motorist (UM) coverage, but it's strongly recommended. Around 6% of PA drivers have no insurance at all. If one of them hits you, UM coverage means your own policy pays for your injuries.
How to Get the Best Rate
Rates vary significantly between carriers — sometimes by hundreds of dollars per year for identical coverage. The fastest way to find your best rate is to have a local PA agent run multiple quotes at once, which is exactly what we do.