Best Car Insurance in North Dakota

Last Updated on January 1, 2026

Car insurance in North Dakota is typically cheaper than the national average, but your price still depends heavily on your ZIP code, driving record, vehicle, and coverage limits. Recent rate studies estimate North Dakota drivers pay around $1,801 per year for full coverage on average (about $397 per year for minimum coverage), while the national average is closer to $2,697 per year for full coverage.

Even in a relatively affordable state, rates can spike after a DUI, an at-fault accident, multiple tickets, or a lapse in coverage. The easiest way to find the best value is to compare quotes from multiple insurers and confirm you’re getting the right protections for your situation.

If you’re shopping regionally, you can also compare pricing trends in nearby states like South Dakota to get a sense of how location impacts cost.

Key Takeaways

  1. North Dakota Rates Are Often Below Average: Many drivers pay less than the national average, but your ZIP code, driving history, vehicle, and coverage choices still matter.
  2. North Dakota Requires More Than Liability: In addition to liability coverage, North Dakota drivers must carry uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage and basic no-fault (PIP) benefits.
  3. Driving Uninsured Can Trigger Serious Consequences: Getting caught without insurance can lead to fines, misdemeanor charges, and possible license consequences—especially if you’re involved in a crash.
  4. Shopping Around and Discounts Can Cut Your Bill: Compare quotes with the same coverage limits, then stack discounts (bundling, safe driver, good student, telematics, and vehicle safety features) to lower your premium.

Top 10 Auto Insurance Companies in North Dakota

North Dakota drivers can choose from national insurers and strong regional options. The “best” company depends on what you value most (price, claims handling, local agents, or specialized coverage). These insurers are commonly competitive choices to start your quote comparison.

1. USAA

USAA is often one of the best values for eligible drivers thanks to strong customer satisfaction and competitive pricing. The catch is eligibility: USAA is limited to military members, veterans, and qualifying family members. If you’re unsure whether you qualify, check who is eligible to get car insurance from USAA.

2. State Farm

State Farm is a popular pick for drivers who want a large network of local agents, solid coverage options, and plenty of discounts. It can be especially appealing if you prefer in-person service instead of a fully app-first experience.

3. Nodak

North Dakota-based Nodak is a go-to option for many local drivers who want a regional insurer with a strong in-state footprint. It may be a strong fit if you value local knowledge and region-specific underwriting.

4. GEICO

GEICO is frequently competitive for price shoppers who are comfortable managing most of their policy online. It’s also known for a wide range of discounts that can help lower premiums for the right driver profile.

5. Nationwide

Nationwide offers broad coverage options and multiple discount paths, including usage-based programs in many areas. It can be a good option if you want flexible coverage add-ons and don’t mind comparing program details.

6. American Family

American Family is often a strong contender for drivers who want multiple coverage options and potential savings from bundling (like auto + homeowners or renters). It can be a good fit for households looking to consolidate policies.

7. Progressive

Progressive is a common choice for drivers who like flexible pricing tools and are willing to shop options quickly online. Rates can vary widely by driver profile, so it’s best used as part of a broader comparison.

8. North Star Mutual

North Star Mutual is a mutual insurer (owned by policyholders rather than shareholders), which some drivers prefer. It may be a good option if you want a more regionally-focused carrier and agent-driven service.

9. Auto-Owners

Auto-Owners is often praised for dependable coverage and an agent-based approach. It can be a strong candidate if you want help tailoring coverage limits and endorsements instead of picking everything yourself online.

10. AAA

AAA can be worth a look if you like the idea of combining auto insurance shopping with membership perks. Availability and underwriting can vary based on your local AAA club and insurer partner.

North Dakota Insurance Requirements

North Dakota requires drivers to carry insurance that meets the state’s minimum limits. The North Dakota Insurance Department explains the current requirements and what counts as valid coverage here.

In North Dakota, minimum coverage includes liability, uninsured/underinsured motorist protection, and basic no-fault medical coverage:

If you lease or finance your vehicle, your lender will typically require “full coverage,” which usually means adding collision coverage and comprehensive coverage on top of the state minimums. If you don’t carry the required lender coverage, the lender may purchase coverage to protect the loan collateral (sometimes called collateral protection insurance) and charge you for it.

Driving Without Insurance in North Dakota

Driving without insurance in North Dakota can lead to fines and points on your driving record. North Dakota Highway Patrol publishes a violations/penalties reference that includes the “driving without liability insurance” offense and related point/fine details here.

Common consequences can include:

  • Fines (often starting at $150 for the first offense, with higher penalties for repeat offenses)
  • Points assessed on your license (which can contribute to a suspension if you accumulate too many points)
  • More severe consequences if you’re uninsured during an accident or other serious incident

If you were involved in a crash while uninsured, learn what can happen next (civil liability, lawsuits, out-of-pocket repairs, and more) in our guide to an accident without insurance.

Car Insurance in North Dakota with DUI

A DUI conviction can cause a major premium increase. Some insurers will raise rates sharply (and some may non-renew), while others remain more competitive depending on your overall history. Here’s a deeper breakdown of how much insurance can go up after a DUI.

If you need a new policy after a DUI, start by comparing multiple quotes and focusing on carriers known for working with higher-risk drivers. This guide to cheap DUI/DWI car insurance walks through strategies that can help.

Car Insurance in North Dakota with At-Fault Accidents

At-fault accidents typically increase premiums for several years, but the size of the increase depends on the insurer, claim severity, and your prior history. This overview explains how much your car insurance can go up after an accident and what to do next.

Car Insurance in North Dakota with Speeding Tickets

A single minor speeding ticket may have a modest impact, but multiple tickets (or a serious speed) can raise rates fast. If you’re trying to estimate the potential impact, see how much a single speeding ticket can increase your rates.

Car Insurance in North Dakota for Young Drivers

Drivers under 25 generally pay the highest premiums because insurers consider them higher risk. The best way to cut costs is to compare quotes, look for good student discounts, and consider staying on a family policy (when possible). If you’re pricing policies for teens, this guide on average insurance rates for a 16-year-old helps set expectations.

Car Insurance in North Dakota with Poor Credit

Many insurers use a credit-based rating factor when allowed, and the difference between “good” and “poor” credit tiers can be significant. This explainer covers what a credit-based insurance score is and how it can affect pricing.

SR-22 and Proof of Financial Responsibility in North Dakota

North Dakota may require proof of financial responsibility in certain situations (for example, after serious incidents or when reinstating driving privileges). If you’ve let car insurance lapse or you’re dealing with reinstatement requirements, you may hear terms like “proof of financial responsibility.” Here’s a plain-English overview of proof of financial responsibility and what it means for drivers.

For official state guidance on SR-22 and related proof requirements, you can also review North Dakota DOT information here.

How to Save on Car Insurance in North Dakota

Even if you already have a policy, you can often lower your premium with a few simple changes:

  • Compare quotes at renewal (and after major life changes like moving, buying a new car, or adding a driver).
  • Re-check your deductibles and choose an amount you could comfortably pay out of pocket after a claim.
  • Stack discounts (bundling, paid-in-full, paperless, safe driver, good student, multi-car, and defensive driving where available).
  • Keep continuous coverage and avoid lapses, which can trigger higher rates.
  • Match coverage to your real needs: don’t underinsure liability limits, but also don’t pay for add-ons you won’t use.

FAQs on Car Insurance in North Dakota

Conclusion: How to Find the Best Auto Insurance in North Dakota

North Dakota drivers often enjoy below-average premiums, but the best policy is still the one that fits your budget and protects you properly. Compare multiple quotes, confirm you meet North Dakota’s minimum requirements, and consider higher liability limits if you want better protection.

Start with a short list of insurers (including at least one regional and one national carrier), then compare apples-to-apples coverage. That’s the most reliable way to find the best car insurance in North Dakota for your needs.

James Shaffer
James Shaffer James Shaffer is a writer for InsurancePanda.com and a well-seasoned auto insurance industry veteran. He has a deep knowledge of insurance rules and regulations and is passionate about helping drivers save money on auto insurance. He is responsible for researching and writing about anything auto insurance-related. He holds a bachelor's degree from Bentley University and his work has been quoted by NBC News, CNN, and The Washington Post.