Car insurance choices and real costs
SR-22 Insurance Guide: State Laws, Filing Requirements, Costs & Compliance State SR-22 laws, filing steps, costs
State Guide

Minimum Car Insurance in Texas: The Legal Floor

📅 Last reviewed: 2026-10-18🏛️ Issued by: Texas Department of Insurance

## What the minimum actually is

Texas sets a liability floor. It is the least you can legally carry, not what is sensible.

## What the minimum does not cover

No damage to your own vehicle. No theft. No medical expenses. Most people find this out after a claim.

## Why people get underinsured

Because the minimum passes inspection. Passing a requirement and being adequately covered are different things.

### A realistic comparison

Compare the cost of the minimum against one full liability limit. The difference is usually smaller than people assume.

## Frequently Asked Questions

### Is the minimum enough?

It meets the law. Whether it protects your assets is a separate question.

### Can I change later?

Yes, at any time. Raising limits mid-term is straightforward.

### Do all insurers offer the same minimum?

The limits are the same. The price is not.

Key Information

State Code

TE

Issuing Agency

Texas Department of Insurance

Agency URL

https://example.com/doi

Minimum Coverage

State-mandated liability minimum

Average Premium Range

Widest range of any decision; depends on coverage chosen

Filing Deadline

At time of registration and renewal

Accepted Insurers / Certificate Issuer

Any licensed carrier permitted to write policies in the state

Last Reviewed

2026-10-18