Illinois Auto Insurance Requirements & Rates
Illinois requires 25/50/20 liability coverage and is an at-fault state.
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Illinois at a Glance
25/50/20
Minimum liability limits, in thousands of dollars (per person / per accident / property)
At-fault
The at-fault driver's insurance pays for the damage they cause
Required
Uninsured motorist coverage must be on every policy
Source: state DMV, insurance department and statute records, verified July 2026
State Requirements
Illinois operates as a traditional at-fault (tort) state, meaning the driver who causes an accident is financially responsible for damages. All drivers must carry proof of insurance and present it during traffic stops or after accidents. The state uses an electronic insurance verification system that allows law enforcement to confirm coverage in real time, according to the Illinois Department of Insurance.
Bodily Injury Liability
Property Damage Liability
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage
Cost Overview
about $96/mo
Average car insurance spending in Illinois
Rate data: NAIC Auto Insurance Database, 2023
Find Out What Your Coverage Should Cost
Compare Rates and Get CoveredFrequently Asked Questions
Is Illinois a no-fault insurance state?
No, Illinois is a traditional at-fault (tort) state. The driver who causes an accident is legally responsible for resulting damages. You can file a claim against the at-fault driver's liability insurance or sue them directly if their coverage is insufficient. This differs from no-fault states where your own insurance pays regardless of who caused the crash.
How long do I need SR-22 insurance in Illinois?
Illinois requires SR-22 filings for a minimum of three years following DUI convictions, license suspensions for uninsured accidents, or multiple violations. Your insurer files the SR-22 form with the Secretary of State and must notify them immediately if your policy lapses or cancels, triggering automatic license suspension. Most drivers see premiums double during the SR-22 period, with rates gradually decreasing after the requirement ends if you maintain a clean record.
Coverage Types
Liability Insurance
Covers bodily injury and property damage you cause to others. Illinois requires 25/50/20 minimum limits, but most advisors recommend at least 100/300/100 to protect personal assets in lawsuits.
Full Coverage
Bundles liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage to protect both you and your vehicle. Typically required by lenders and recommended for vehicles worth more than $5,000.
Comprehensive Coverage
Pays for damage from theft, vandalism, weather, fire, and animal collisions. Covers non-accident damage that collision insurance doesn't.
Uninsured Motorist Coverage
Protects you when hit by a driver with no insurance or insufficient coverage. Pays your medical bills, lost wages, and vehicle damage up to your policy limits.
Collision Coverage
Pays to repair or replace your vehicle after an accident, regardless of who's at fault. Typically includes a deductible of $500–$1,000.
SR-22 Insurance
A state-mandated proof of financial responsibility filing required after certain violations like DUI, reckless driving, or driving uninsured. The SR-22 itself is a form, not a coverage type.