Low-Income Car Insurance in California

Minimum coverage in California

California requires at least $30,000 bodily injury liability per person, $60,000 per accident and $15,000 property damage liability (often written 30/60/15).

Requirements change — several states raised their minimums in 2025. Confirm current limits with the California insurance department or California DMV.

California Low Cost Auto Insurance (CLCA)

California's state program offers low-cost liability coverage to income-eligible drivers with good driving records. Check current eligibility with the California Department of Insurance.

Is minimum coverage enough?

Minimum liability is the cheapest legal option and is common for older, low-value cars — including most donated cars. It does not pay to repair your own car. If you cannot afford repairs after an accident, compare the cost of adding collision coverage against the value of the car.

Ways to pay less in California

• Compare at least three quotes every year
• Ask about good-driver, low-mileage, paperless and paid-in-full discounts
• Raise your deductible only if you can cover it
• Try usage-based insurance if you drive little
• Take a defensive driving course where it earns a discount

More tips in our national low-income car insurance guide. Budgeting for a new car? Read the real cost of a donated car.

Nearby states

Car insurance in Oregon · Car insurance in Nevada · Car insurance in Arizona