Mandatory Liability Insurance in Illinois

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What is the minimum amount of liability insurance coverage required?

The insurance must provide a minimum of $20,000 for injury liability for one person in an accident, $40,000 for all injuries in an accident, and $15,000 for property damage in an accident (Act 2008-393). The policy must be issued by an insurance company qualified to issue motor vehicle liability insurance in Illinois.

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Am I required to carry proof of liability insurance coverage in my vehicle?

You must always carry your insurance card in your vehicle and show it upon request by any law enforcement officer. Your insurance company will send you an insurance card, usually when your insurance policy is issued or renewed.

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What is considered proof of liability insurance coverage?

• If the computer randomly selects your vehicle, you will receive a questionnaire asking for the name of your insurance company and policy number. Your answers will be verified with the company you name. If you do not have insurance or fail to return the questionnaire with the requested information, your license plates will be suspended.
• If you are stopped for a traffic violation or involved in an accident, a law enforcement officer may issue a traffic citation if you are unable to provide evidence of insurance. If convicted, your license plates will be suspended and you will face the following fines:
  • minimum $500 fine for driving uninsured
  • minimum $1,000 fine for driving a vehicle while the license plates are suspended for a previous insurance violation

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