On January 1, 2025, California’s minimum auto liability limits rose from 15/30/5 to 30/60/15. That is $30,000 per person and $60,000 per accident for injuries, plus $15,000 for property damage. Policies renewing on or after that date move to the new floor. Many drivers use the change as a prompt to review whether higher limits fit.
What exactly changed on January 1, 2025?
The state minimum went from 15/30/5 to 30/60/15. In dollars, per-person injury coverage rose from $15,000 to $30,000, per-accident injury coverage from $30,000 to $60,000, and property damage from $5,000 to $15,000. It was the first increase to these minimums in decades.
Why did California raise the minimums?
The old limits had not kept pace with the real cost of medical care and vehicle repairs. Raising the floor is meant to reduce the number of accidents where the at-fault driver’s coverage falls far short of the actual bills. It brings the legal minimum closer to modern costs, though many drivers still choose higher limits.
Do I need to do anything to comply?
If you carry a California auto policy, your limits typically update to at least 30/60/15 at renewal on or after January 1, 2025. It is a good moment to confirm your current limits and to ask whether higher liability or an umbrella makes sense for your situation.
Can my credit be used to set my auto rate in California?
No. Under California’s Proposition 103, auto insurance rates are based primarily on your driving record, annual mileage, and years of driving experience. Credit-based insurance scores are not used to rate personal auto insurance in California, which differs from many other states.
What if I need an SR-22?
An SR-22 is a form your insurer files with the state to show you carry at least the required liability limits, often after certain violations. Because the minimums rose in 2025, an SR-22 filing reflects the new 30/60/15 floor. An agent can explain the filing, its cost, and how long it typically applies.
No. California does not allow credit history to be used in pricing personal auto insurance. Rates rely mainly on driving-related factors such as record, experience, and miles driven.
The minimum meets the law, but a serious accident can exceed it. Many drivers choose higher limits for more protection.
January 1, 2025. Policies renewing on or after that date reflect 30/60/15.
Higher required limits can affect premium, but the amount varies by driver and policy. Reviewing options with an advisor is the clearest way to see the impact.
This guide is general information about insurance in California, not a policy, a quote, or personalized advice. Coverage, eligibility, and pricing depend on your situation and the policy terms. Talk to a licensed agent before you make a decision.
Earthquake insurance in California: CEA vs the private market
Flood insurance in California: why it is separate and who needs itDon’t forget to share this article
The next step is easy, call us at 818-322-4744, or click below to start your insurance quote
Related Articles
What a statement of no loss certifies, when carriers require one, and what happens if a loss did occur during the gap.
4.4 min read/This glossary defines common insurance terms in plain English for California consumers and business owners, from deductible ...
4.4 min read/The cost of homeowners insurance in California varies widely and has been rising, driven largely by wildfire ...
1.9 min read/
