Last Updated on January 1, 2026

Car insurance in Washington, D.C. is often pricier than many parts of the country. Recent industry rate analyses put the average cost of full coverage in D.C. at roughly $2,800–$2,900 per year, with the national full-coverage average closer to the $2,600–$2,700 range. Rates vary widely by ZIP code, driving record, vehicle type, and coverage choices—but in a dense, high-traffic city like D.C., it’s common to pay more than drivers in many suburban or rural areas.

There are also uniquely local factors at play—congestion, crash frequency, theft/vandalism risk, higher repair costs, and a larger share of drivers on the road at any given time. If you want a deeper breakdown of the “why,” see our guide on why auto insurance is so expensive in Washington, DC.

If you’re comparing options across the region, it can also help to cross-check nearby markets like Maryland and Virginia—even small differences in laws, claims trends, and competition can shift pricing.

The best way to save in D.C. is simple (but effective): get quotes from multiple insurers, compare coverage apples-to-apples, and take advantage of discounts. Below are strong options to consider, plus D.C.’s minimum requirements and what happens if you drive uninsured.

Key Takeaways

1. D.C. Rates Are Often Above Average: Full coverage in Washington, D.C. commonly benchmarks around the high-$2,000s per year, and your ZIP code and driving record can swing the price dramatically.
2. Minimum Coverage Includes Uninsured Motorist: D.C. requires liability coverage and uninsured motorist coverage, not just basic liability.
3. Lapses Can Trigger Fines and Registration Issues: D.C. expects continuous coverage while the vehicle is registered—avoid canceling insurance until you’ve replaced coverage or properly surrendered tags.
4. The “Best” Company Depends on You: USAA can be great if eligible, Erie is popular regionally, and GEICO/Progressive/State Farm are strong mainstream options—compare multiple quotes to find your best fit.

Top Auto Insurance Companies in Washington, D.C.

There’s no single “best” car insurance company for everyone in D.C. The best carrier for you depends on eligibility (for example, military status), how much coverage you need, whether you want an agent, and your driving/claims history. These companies are common starting points for D.C. drivers shopping for a competitive rate and solid coverage.

1. USAA

USAA is one of the best-known picks for eligible drivers (active-duty military, veterans, and qualifying family members). In a military-heavy area like D.C., many residents qualify. If you’re eligible, it’s often worth quoting USAA early because rates and claims satisfaction can be strong compared to many competitors.

2. Erie Insurance

Erie is a popular choice in and around the D.C. area for drivers who want strong customer service and coverage that doesn’t feel “bare bones.” Erie can be a good fit if you prefer agent support and want optional add-ons (which vary by state), like accident forgiveness or enhanced roadside service.

3. GEICO

GEICO has long been popular in the nation’s capital. It’s a strong contender if you want a fast online quote, app-first policy management, and a wide menu of ways to lower your premium. If you’re shopping GEICO, review its potential savings opportunities here: What discounts does GEICO offer for car insurance?

4. Progressive

Progressive is a strong option for drivers who want flexibility—especially if you’re comparing multiple coverage levels or if you’re worried your record may push you into “higher-risk” pricing. Progressive is also widely known for telematics/usage-based programs and online tools that can help you test different coverage and deductible combinations quickly.

5. State Farm

State Farm is a go-to choice for drivers who want local agent support and a broad set of discounts and policy options. It may be a good fit if you value in-person help, want to bundle multiple policies, or simply prefer a carrier with a large U.S. footprint. You can also review common savings options here: What discounts does State Farm offer?

6. Allstate

Allstate is another widely available option in the District. Allstate can be worth a quote if you want a large carrier with a wide range of add-ons and policy customization, especially if you’re comparing bundling options or want specific endorsements that may not be available everywhere.

7. Nationwide

Nationwide can be a good fit for drivers who like to “stack” discounts and customize coverage. It’s not always the cheapest at first glance, but discounts can move the needle. If Nationwide is on your shortlist, see common savings options here: Nationwide car insurance discounts.

8. Farmers

Farmers is a solid option for drivers who prefer working with an agent and want a policy that can be tailored to how and what you drive. It may be worth comparing if you own multiple vehicles, want add-ons, or want help choosing coverage levels rather than building everything online.

9. Liberty Mutual

Liberty Mutual can be a good quote to grab if you’re prioritizing customization. Your final price depends heavily on your driver profile and the discounts you qualify for, so it helps to check savings opportunities early: Liberty Mutual auto insurance discounts.

10. The Hartford

The Hartford often stands out for drivers who value a robust coverage package and strong service—especially if you’re eligible for certain affinity programs. It may not always win on price, but it can be worth quoting if you’re prioritizing claims experience and coverage breadth.

How Much Does Car Insurance Cost in Washington, D.C.?

Most “average cost” numbers are estimates based on a sample driver profile, so treat them as a benchmark—not a guaranteed quote. With that said, recent pricing studies commonly place Washington, D.C. around $2,800–$2,900 per year for full coverage, and the national full-coverage average around $2,600–$2,700 per year. Minimum-coverage policies are usually much cheaper than full coverage, but D.C. minimum coverage can still be costly compared to many states.

Your actual premium will depend on factors like:

• Your ZIP code (even within D.C., pricing can change significantly by neighborhood)
• Your driving record (tickets, at-fault accidents, lapses, DUIs)
• Vehicle type and trim (repair costs and theft rates matter)
• Coverage level and deductibles (higher deductibles typically lower premiums)
• Discount eligibility (bundling, safety features, telematics, student discounts, and more)

Washington, D.C. Insurance Requirements

The District of Columbia’s Compulsory/No-Fault Motor Vehicle Insurance Act requires drivers to maintain insurance continuously for as long as the vehicle is registered. If you’re no longer driving the vehicle, you generally need to surrender your tags—otherwise, an insurance lapse can trigger fines and registration suspension.

D.C. drivers must carry at least the following minimum coverages:

• $25,000 bodily injury liability coverage per person
• $50,000 bodily injury liability coverage per accident
• $10,000 property damage liability coverage
• $25,000 uninsured motorist bodily injury coverage per person
• $50,000 uninsured motorist bodily injury coverage per accident
• $5,000 uninsured motorist property damage coverage (subject to a deductible)

If you lease or finance your vehicle, your lender will typically require full coverage car insurance (usually meaning collision and comprehensive in addition to liability). If you only carry liability, you may be violating your loan or lease agreement.

Some drivers choose minimum liability coverage to keep costs down. Just remember: minimum coverage generally does not pay to repair or replace your own car after an at-fault crash, theft, vandalism, or storm damage.

Driving Without Insurance in Washington, D.C.

Driving without insurance (or letting coverage lapse while your car is still registered) can get expensive fast in Washington, D.C. Officers can ask for proof of insurance at a traffic stop or crash scene, and insurers can report cancellations to the District.

It also matters how you’re uninsured. D.C. treats these situations differently:

1) Insurance Lapse While the Vehicle Is Registered

If your vehicle is registered in D.C., you generally must keep insurance active continuously. If your policy lapses, you can face fines, and your registration can be suspended. In practice, this is why it’s risky to cancel a policy before you’ve properly surrendered tags or replaced coverage.

2) Operating an Uninsured Vehicle

If you are caught driving uninsured in D.C., you can face a civil fine and potential license suspension. If you’re switching insurers, avoid even a one-day gap—overlapping policies briefly is usually safer than risking a lapse.

3) Not Having Proof of Insurance When Asked

Even if you have coverage, failing to show proof when requested can trigger a ticket. If you’re unable to provide proof of insurance, ask your insurer for a digital insurance card and keep a copy saved offline on your phone.

Car Insurance in Washington, D.C. With a DUI

A DUI/DWI conviction can raise premiums dramatically—often 50% or more depending on your insurer, prior record, and how D.C. classifies the offense. If you’re worried about what comes next, start here: How much does insurance go up after a DUI?

If you have a DUI on your record in Washington, D.C., it’s usually smart to request quotes from several carriers (especially if one insurer non-renews you). Start with:

1. USAA (if eligible)
2. Erie
3. GEICO
4. Progressive
5. State Farm

Car Insurance in Washington, D.C. With At-Fault Accidents

If you have an at-fault crash, expect a premium increase at renewal—sometimes for multiple years. If you’re trying to understand how insurers view fault, see what happens with insurance if you are at-fault in an accident. You can also review whether your car insurance goes up after an accident for a broader look at how pricing changes.

After an at-fault accident in D.C., consider requesting quotes from:

1. USAA (if eligible)
2. Erie
3. GEICO
4. Nationwide
5. Progressive

Car Insurance in Washington, D.C. With Speeding Tickets

Speeding tickets can increase your premium, but the size of the increase varies a lot by carrier. Some insurers surcharge heavily after a single ticket; others are more forgiving. If you’re trying to keep costs down after a citation, see our guide on finding cheap auto insurance quotes even if you have a speeding ticket.

If you have tickets on your record, these carriers are commonly worth quoting in D.C.:

1. Erie
2. USAA (if eligible)
3. GEICO
4. State Farm
5. Nationwide

Car Insurance in Washington, D.C. for Young Drivers

Young drivers usually pay higher premiums because insurers see them as statistically higher risk. In a high-cost market like D.C., that difference can be especially noticeable. If you’re shopping as a teen driver or under 25, start with our guide to the cheapest car insurance for young drivers, then compare multiple quotes with the same coverages.

Common starting points for young drivers in D.C. include:

1. USAA (if eligible)
2. Erie
3. GEICO
4. Allstate
5. State Farm

Car Insurance in Washington, D.C. With Poor Credit

In many places (including D.C.), insurers can use a credit-based insurance score when pricing auto coverage. If your credit is poor or limited, you may see higher premiums—sometimes significantly. For details, see whether credit score affects your car insurance rates.

If credit is a concern, you’ll usually get the best results by comparing multiple carriers and asking about discounts and payment options. Start with quotes from:

1. Erie
2. GEICO
3. USAA (if eligible)
4. State Farm
5. Allstate

SR-22 Insurance in Washington, D.C.

An SR-22 isn’t a separate “type” of car insurance—it’s a form your insurer files to prove you’re carrying the required coverage. D.C. may require an SR-22 after certain serious violations (like driving uninsured or certain DUI-related situations). Most people need to keep an SR-22 on file for about three years, though the requirement can vary based on the reason you need it.

If you need help finding a policy that can file an SR-22, start here: compare SR-22 insurance quotes online. And if you already have a policy, ask your current insurer if they can file the SR-22 for you (many can, for a small filing fee).

FAQs on Car Insurance in Washington, D.C.

Conclusion: How to Find the Best Auto Insurance in Washington, D.C.

To find the best car insurance in Washington, D.C., focus on two things: (1) getting the right coverage for your situation (minimum vs. full coverage), and (2) shopping multiple quotes with the same deductibles and limits so you can compare fairly.

Start with the insurers above, then fine-tune your price by raising deductibles (if you can afford them), stacking discounts, and avoiding coverage lapses—because in D.C., even a short gap can create fines and bigger long-term insurance headaches.