California car insurance
Getting car insurance in California
The third-largest state in the United States, California is the most populous state in the country. It has some of the biggest cities in the U.S., as well, including Los Angeles, San Diego, San Francisco, San Jose and Bakersfield. Home to professional sports teams in baseball, soccer, basketball and football, California is also known as being the entertainment capital of the country and a pop culture trendsetter, in addition to a hub for technology and innovation. With 840 miles of coastline, California is also home to mountains and deserts as well as landmarks, such as Alcatraz, the Golden Gate Bridge and massive redwood and sequoia trees. You can see a good bit of the state along the Pacific Coast Highway or Interstates 5, 8, 10, 15, 40 and 580.
How to save on car insurance in California
Protect your ride and your wallet with Allstate's simple and personalized car insurance.
- Switch and save $900
Put money back in your wallet when you move your auto policy to Allstate1. - Save 25% with multiple cars
More cars = more savings! Put money back in your wallet when you insure more than one car with Allstate2.
What car insurance discounts can I get in California?
When you get a free quote from Allstate, you may be eligible for discounts that could help you save. Some available discounts can include:
- Anti-theft device
- Defensive driver
- Good student
- Student away at school
- Safe driver
Review the different types of car insurance discounts tailored to you and enjoy savings without cutting coverage.
What is the minimum required coverage in California?
| Coverage type | State requirements |
|---|---|
| Bodily injury liability Helps cover expenses related to the injury or death of another driver or a pedestrian when an accident is your fault. |
$30,000 limit per person/$60,000 limit per accident |
| Property damage liability Helps cover expenses related to the damage of another person's property — like vehicles, homes, buildings and other structures — when an accident is your fault. |
$15,000 limit |
| Uninsured motorist Helps cover medical expenses if you're in an accident, the other driver is at fault and doesn't have any insurance. |
Not required |
| Underinsured motorist Helps cover medical expenses if you're in an accident, the other driver is at fault and doesn't have enough insurance. |
Not required |
| Medical payments If you and/or your passengers are hurt in an accident, this helps cover your medical or funeral expenses. |
Not required |
| Collision Helps cover expenses to repair or replace your vehicle that's been damaged in an accident. |
Not required* |
| Comprehensive Helps cover expenses to repair or replace your vehicle that's been stolen or damaged by things like storms or vandalism. |
Not required* |
State chart requirements provided for informational purposes only. State minimums and required coverages vary by state and may change from time to time. Check with your state for up-to-date information or if you have questions about current state minimums.
*Although California law does not require drivers to carry this coverage, it may be required by your lender if you are leasing or financing your vehicle.
Is California a no-fault state for car insurance?
No, California is a fault-based state. This means you have the right to file a claim with the at-fault driver's insurance company to cover medical bills and other damages.
Get a car insurance quote
Other types of car insurance coverage in California
Allstate also offers these types of coverages:
- Roadside assistance (e.g., towing, flat tires, jump-starts, lockouts)
- Insurance for rideshare drivers
- Insurance for electric cars/EVs
- Rental car reimbursement
Learn about these and other car insurance coverage types available.
How much does car insurance in California cost?
The price of your insurance will depend on the coverages, limits and deductibles that you select, as well as:
- The type of car you're insuring (year, make, model)
- Your driving habits and annual mileage
- Demographic factors, like ZIP code
- Any discounts you may qualify for
Learn more about these factors that could impact your car insurance premium and get a free quote online to see how much car insurance would cost for you.
Can I use my car insurance if I drive to Mexico?
Your U.S. driver's license is valid for use in Mexico, but your insurance policy may not cover you in the event of an accident. Learn more about auto insurance in Mexico for tourists and travelers.
Can you use electronic proof of insurance in California?
Yes, you are allowed to show an electronic copy of your insurance card on your mobile device in California if you get stopped by the police.
You can use the Allstate® app for iPhone® and Android® to access your digital ID card.