District of Columbia insurance

Low-Income Car Insurance in District of Columbia

What District of Columbia requires, and how to keep insurance affordable after you receive a car.

Last verified: · By the Free Car Foundation Editorial Team

Woman holding an umbrella beside her car under a large shield representing car insurance

Minimum coverage in District of Columbia

District of Columbia requires at least $25,000 bodily injury liability per person, $50,000 per accident and $10,000 property damage liability (often written 25/50/10).

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

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 District of Columbia

  • 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.

Apply for a free car with Free Car Foundation

District of Columbia residents can apply for a free car online. Our application is free, takes about 5 minutes and never asks for your Social Security number or bank details.

Nearby states

Car insurance in Maryland · Car insurance in Virginia

Frequently asked questions

What is the minimum car insurance in District of Columbia?
District of Columbia requires at least $25,000 bodily injury liability per person, $50,000 per accident and $10,000 property damage liability (often written 25/50/10).
How can I get cheap car insurance in District of Columbia on a low income?
Compare quotes, choose state minimum liability for an older car, and ask for every discount you qualify for.

Need a car to get to work?

Apply to the Free Car Foundation program today. It is free, takes about 5 minutes and never asks for your SSN or bank details.