New Jersey Minimum Car Insurance Requirements
New Jersey requires minimum bodily injury liability of $15,000 per person and $30,000 per accident, plus $5,000 property damage liability. You must carry proof of insurance at all times while driving.
Driving without insurance in New Jersey results in license suspension, fines up to $1,000, and possible vehicle impoundment. A second offense within 10 years carries even steeper penalties.
Can Immigrants Get a License in New Jersey?
New Jersey does NOT issue driver licenses to undocumented immigrants. You must have valid immigration status and a Social Security Number or ITIN to qualify.
If you have lawful status, bring your passport, proof of New Jersey residency, and Social Security card or ITIN letter to the MVC. New Jersey has no special immigrant license program like California or New York.
Best Insurance Options for Immigrants in New Jersey
Many major insurers in New Jersey accept ITIN numbers instead of SSNs: New Jersey Manufacturers, State Farm, Allstate, and Geico all work with ITIN applicants. Always call ahead and confirm ITIN acceptance before applying.
Without a New Jersey driver license, some insurers may decline you. If you have a foreign license, bring an International Driving Permit (IDP) and ask if the company accepts it for underwriting. Compare quotes from at least three insurers.
Tips for Immigrant Drivers in New Jersey
Buying car insurance does NOT report you to ICE or immigration authorities. Insurance companies are NOT immigration enforcement. Your personal information is protected under federal privacy law (Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act).
If pulled over, keep your insurance card, registration, and any valid ID in the vehicle. New Jersey police enforce traffic law only. Get quotes online or by phone before visiting an agent in person.
| 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 | $5,000 | Required by law |
| Uninsured Motorist (per person) | $15,000 | Required in NJ |
| Uninsured Motorist (per accident) | $30,000 | Required in NJ |
| Personal Injury Protection (PIP) | $15,000 | Required in NJ |
📋 Official Sources
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Use an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) instead. Most insurers accept ITIN for quotes and policies. Get your ITIN free from the IRS at https://www.irs.gov/individuals/individual-taxpayer-identification-number
No. New Jersey does not offer driver licenses to undocumented immigrants. Check your state DMV website for your current status and options.
New Jersey requires: 15/30/5 liability (bodily injury per person/per accident, property damage). Personal Injury Protection (PIP) is mandatory. Ask your insurer for exact current minimums.
State Farm, Geico, Progressive, and NJ Manufacturers accept ITIN numbers. Get quotes from multiple carriers—rates vary widely. Call directly and confirm they take ITIN before applying.
Foreign licenses work temporarily for insurance quotes and policies if you have no US license yet. However, to legally drive in New Jersey, you need a US license or valid permit.
No. Insurance companies are NOT immigration enforcement. Your data is protected by the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act. They do not share customer info with ICE or government agencies.
Yes. All insurers require a New Jersey address to insure a vehicle there. Use your actual NJ address—do not use false information.
ITIN, proof of residence (utility bill, lease), vehicle info (VIN, registration), and driving history if available. Each insurer may ask for different docs—call first.