Louisiana Minimum Car Insurance Requirements
Louisiana requires minimum liability coverage of 15/30/25: $15,000 bodily injury per person, $30,000 per accident, $25,000 property damage. This is among the lowest in the nation.
Driving without insurance in Louisiana can result in license suspension, fines up to $500 for first offense, and vehicle impoundment. A second offense within 3 years increases penalties significantly.
Proof of insurance must be carried in your vehicle at all times and shown to police if stopped.
Can Immigrants Get a License in Louisiana?
Louisiana does NOT currently issue driver licenses to undocumented immigrants. You must have proof of legal presence or valid visa status to obtain a Louisiana license.
If you have a valid passport and visa, bring it to your local DMV office. You will also need proof of residency (utility bill, lease, or bank statement) and your Social Security Number or ITIN.
If you cannot get a Louisiana license, some insurers will accept an international driving permit or a license from your home country with an ITIN number.
Best Insurance Options for Immigrants in Louisiana
Many major insurers in Louisiana accept ITIN numbers instead of SSN. State Farm, Progressive, Allstate, and GEICO have insured immigrants in Louisiana, though availability varies by location.
Get quotes from multiple companies - rates vary widely. Some insurers charge more without a US license or driving history; others specialize in this market.
You may need to provide a tax return or bank statement to prove income when applying with an ITIN. Never lie about your status or documents - it voids your policy.
Tips for Immigrant Drivers in Louisiana
Keep insurance documents and your passport or visa with you when driving. If stopped by police, remain calm and provide your documents - police are NOT immigration enforcement.
Louisiana is a comparative fault state, meaning liability is assigned by percentage. Document any accident with photos and witness information.
Your insurance information is protected by the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act - insurance companies cannot share your data with ICE or immigration authorities.
Contact the Louisiana Department of Insurance with complaints: (225) 342-5900.
| Coverage Type | Minimum Required | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Bodily Injury (per person) | $15,000 | Required by law |
| Bodily Injury (per accident) | $30,000 | Required by law |
| Property Damage | $25,000 | Required by law |
| Uninsured Motorist (UM) | Optional | Highly recommended |
| Underinsured Motorist (UIM) | Optional | Highly recommended |
| Medical Payments (MedPay) | Optional | Covers treatment costs |
| Comprehensive | Optional | Required if financing |
| Collision | Optional | Required if financing |
📋 Official Sources
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Use an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) instead. Most insurers accept ITIN. Insurance companies do not report you to immigration authorities.
No. Louisiana does not offer licenses to undocumented immigrants. You need a valid visa or legal status. Check LA DMV for current eligibility.
Liability only: $15,000 bodily injury per person, $30,000 per accident, $25,000 property damage. These are state minimums. Rates vary by driver.
State Farm, Allstate, Geico, Progressive, and AARP accept ITIN. Non-standard companies like National General also work. Get quotes from multiple insurers.
Temporarily yes if you have a valid visa and international driving permit. Long-term you need a Louisiana license. Some insurers may charge higher rates.