Insuring Your Car in Idaho: Everything You Need to Know

Idaho is known for its scenic beauty, but when it comes to car insurance, things can get a little complicated. There are many insurance companies to choose from and dozens of factors that can affect your premiums. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about car insurance in Idaho, including:

What Are the Car Insurance Requirements in Idaho?

Like most states, Idaho requires drivers to carry liability insurance. The minimum coverage limits are:

Coverage Type	Minimum Coverage Limits
Bodily Injury Liability	$25,000 per person / $50,000 per accident
Property Damage Liability	$15,000 per accident

These limits are the absolute minimum required by law, but it’s often a good idea to get more coverage. If you get into an accident and your liability coverage isn’t enough to cover the damages, you could be on the hook for the remainder.

Idaho also requires drivers to carry uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. The minimum coverage limits are the same as the liability requirements:

Coverage Type	Minimum Coverage Limits
Uninsured Motorist Bodily Injury	$25,000 per person / $50,000 per accident
Underinsured Motorist Bodily Injury	$25,000 per person / $50,000 per accident
Uninsured Motorist Property Damage	$15,000 per accident

Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage protects you in case you’re in an accident with a driver who doesn’t have enough insurance to cover your damages.

Finally, Idaho drivers must carry personal injury protection (PIP) coverage. The minimum coverage limit is $25,000 per person.

What Happens If You Don’t Have Car Insurance in Idaho?

If you’re caught driving without insurance in Idaho, you could be fined up to $1,000 for a first offense. Subsequent offenses carry higher fines and the possibility of jail time. Your license could also be suspended, and you’ll likely have to file an SR-22 form with the state to prove you have insurance.

What Factors Affect Your Car Insurance Rates in Idaho?

Car insurance rates in Idaho are determined by a variety of factors, including:

Your Driving Record

If you have a clean driving record, you’ll generally pay lower rates than if you have a history of accidents or traffic violations. DUIs and other serious offenses can also lead to higher premiums.

Your Age and Gender

Young drivers and male drivers tend to pay more for car insurance than older drivers and female drivers. This is because these groups are statistically more likely to get into accidents.

Your Car

The make and model of your car can affect your insurance rates. Cars that are more expensive to repair or replace will typically cost more to insure. Features like anti-theft devices and safety features can also lower your premiums.

Where You Live

Insurance companies look at overall risk when determining rates, and some areas are considered riskier than others. If you live in an area with high crime rates or lots of accidents, you’ll likely pay more for insurance.

How Can You Save Money on Car Insurance in Idaho?

There are several strategies you can use to lower your car insurance rates in Idaho:

Shop Around

Don’t settle for the first insurance company you come across. Shop around and compare rates from multiple insurers to find the best deal.

Bundle Your Policies

If you have multiple insurance policies (like renters or homeowners insurance), consider bundling them with your car insurance. Most insurers offer discounts for bundling multiple policies.

Take Advantage of Discounts

Many insurance companies offer discounts for things like safe driving, good grades (for young drivers), and anti-theft devices. Ask your insurer about any discounts you may be eligible for.

FAQs

Is Car Insurance Required in Idaho?

Yes, all drivers in Idaho are required to carry liability insurance, uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, and personal injury protection.

What Are the Minimum Car Insurance Requirements in Idaho?

The minimum liability coverage limits in Idaho are $25,000 per person / $50,000 per accident for bodily injury and $15,000 per accident for property damage. Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage limits are the same, and personal injury protection limits are $25,000 per person.

What Happens If You’re Caught Driving Without Car Insurance in Idaho?

You could be fined up to $1,000 for a first offense and face higher fines and possible jail time for subsequent offenses. Your license could also be suspended, and you’ll likely have to file an SR-22 form with the state to prove you have insurance.

How Can You Save Money on Car Insurance in Idaho?

Shop around, bundle your policies, and take advantage of discounts like safe driving or anti-theft device discounts.

What Factors Affect Your Car Insurance Rates in Idaho?

Your driving record, age and gender, car make and model, and where you live can all affect your car insurance rates in Idaho.