Do You Need Insurance to Register a Car in Utah in 2025
Utah law mandates motor vehicle liability insurance for all vehicles operated on public roadways. Under Utah Code Title 31A, Chapter 22, vehicle owners must maintain proof of financial responsibility continuously while operating a motor vehicle in the state. The Utah State Tax Commission Motor Vehicle Division administers vehicle registration and enforces insurance compliance throughout Utah.
Legal Requirement for Insurance Coverage
Utah Code Section 31A-22-302 establishes that a current policy of insurance that includes No-Fault, bodily injury, and property damage liability coverage must be maintained on all vehicles throughout the vehicle's registration period. Motor vehicle liability insurance represents the primary method of demonstrating financial responsibility. The requirement applies to all motor vehicles operated on public roads, with limited statutory exceptions.
Vehicle owners must maintain continuous insurance coverage throughout the registration period. Operating a vehicle without established financial responsibility constitutes a violation of Utah law and may result in suspension of driving privileges, vehicle registration suspension, and reinstatement fees. Utah law enforcement officers may request proof of insurance during traffic stops and accident scenes, and failure to provide proof may result in citations and penalties, including a minimum fine of $400 for a first offense.
Utah State Tax Commission Motor Vehicle Division
210 North 1950 West, Salt Lake City, UT 84134
Phone: (801) 297-7780
Official Website: Utah Motor Vehicle Division
Minimum Insurance Coverage Requirements
Utah Code Section 31A-22-304 establishes minimum coverage amounts for motor vehicle liability insurance. The Utah Insurance Department regulates insurance companies operating in the state. Utah requires drivers to maintain liability insurance coverage that meets or exceeds statutory minimum amounts.
| Coverage Type | Minimum Amount |
|---|---|
| Bodily injury or death of one person | $30,000 |
| Bodily injury or death of two or more persons | $65,000 total |
| Property damage | $25,000 |
The minimum coverage requirements apply to liability insurance only. Utah law does not mandate collision coverage or comprehensive coverage.
Utah Insurance Department
4315 South 2700 West, Suite 2300, Taylorsville, UT 84129
Phone: (801) 957-9200
Official Website: Utah Insurance Department
Proof of Insurance Documents
Utah requires vehicle operators to carry proof of motor vehicle liability insurance at all times while operating a motor vehicle. The following formats are accepted:
- Financial responsibility identification card issued by the insurance company showing policy number, coverage dates, and vehicle information
- Electronic proof of insurance displayed on a mobile device or other portable electronic device
Exceptions to Insurance Requirements
Proof of financial responsibility is required on all motor vehicles operated in Utah, with the following limited exceptions:
- Vehicles owned by the United States government, the state of Utah, or any political subdivision of the state
- ATVs or off-highway vehicles that are not operated on public roads are exempt from insurance requirements.
Insurance Requirements for Vehicle Registration
The Utah State Tax Commission Motor Vehicle Division processes vehicle registration applications and renewals. Vehicle owners must maintain active insurance coverage when registering a vehicle for the first time in Utah or when renewing an existing registration.
New Utah residents are allowed 60 days to transfer titles and registrations. Out-of-state insurance policies do not satisfy Utah registration requirements for residents. New residents must obtain Utah insurance before completing vehicle registration.
Utah motorists may renew vehicle registration online, by mail, or in person at Motor Vehicle Division offices. Registration renewals require active insurance coverage. The Motor Vehicle Division confirms insurance status through the state verification system before processing registration transactions.
