North Carolina car insurance requirements
Every driver in North Carolina must carry at least this coverage. It’s an at-fault state: the driver who causes a crash is responsible for the damage.
| Coverage | Minimum required |
|---|---|
| Bodily injury liability | $50,000 per person / $100,000 per accident |
| Property damage liability | $50,000 per accident |
| Uninsured motorist coverage | Required, matching your liability limits |
State minimums protect other people, not you or your car. Most drivers choose higher limits, plus collision and comprehensive if their car is financed or worth repairing.
What North Carolina drivers should know
- North Carolina raised its minimum limits to 50/100/50 for policies starting or renewing on or after July 1, 2025 — among the highest minimums in the country.
- Rates are filed through the North Carolina Rate Bureau, and tickets and at-fault accidents add surcharge points under the Safe Driver Incentive Plan.
- North Carolina follows contributory negligence: if you’re even slightly at fault, you may be unable to recover damages from the other driver — another reason to carry solid coverage of your own.
Home insurance in North Carolina
- Hurricanes and tropical storms are the main risk for coastal and eastern North Carolina homes, usually with a separate hurricane deductible.
- In beach and coastal areas, wind coverage may come from the North Carolina Insurance Underwriting Association (the Coastal Property Insurance Pool).
- Flooding from storms is not covered by home insurance and needs a separate flood policy.
Ways to save in North Carolina
- Compare several companies. Prices for the same driver and home can vary widely between insurers — comparing is the fastest way to find a better rate.
- Bundle auto and home. Many insurers discount both policies when you buy them together.
- Raise your deductibles if you could comfortably pay more out of pocket after a claim.
- Ask about discounts for safe driving, paying in full, home security devices and newer roofs.