Do You Need Insurance to Register a Car in New Hampshire in 2025
New Hampshire distinguishes itself as the only state that does not mandate motor vehicle liability insurance for all drivers. Under New Hampshire Revised Statutes Chapter 264, vehicle owners must demonstrate financial responsibility only under specific circumstances. The New Hampshire Division of Motor Vehicles administers vehicle registration and monitors financial responsibility compliance throughout the state. While insurance is not required for initial registration, drivers must prove they can cover damages if involved in certain violations or at-fault accidents.
Legal Requirement for Insurance Coverage
Vehicle registration does not require proof of insurance at the time of registration for most drivers. However, once a driver becomes subject to financial responsibility requirements due to violations or accidents, the Division of Motor Vehicles requires continuous proof through an SR-22 certificate.
Operating a vehicle without maintaining the required financial responsibility after being placed under such requirements constitutes a violation of New Hampshire law and results in suspension of driving privileges, vehicle registration suspension, and reinstatement requirements.
New Hampshire Division of Motor Vehicles
23 Hazen Drive, Concord, NH 03305
Phone: (603) 227-4000
Official Website: New Hampshire Division of Motor Vehicles
Minimum Insurance Coverage Requirements
New Hampshire Revised Statutes Section 264:20 establishes minimum financial responsibility amounts when proof becomes required. The New Hampshire Insurance Department regulates insurance companies operating in the state. When drivers choose to purchase insurance or become required to maintain it, policies must meet minimum coverage amounts.
| Coverage Type | Minimum Amount |
|---|---|
| Bodily injury or death of one person | $25,000 |
| Bodily injury or death of two or more persons | $50,000 total |
| Property damage | $25,000 |
The minimum coverage requirements apply when financial responsibility must be demonstrated. New Hampshire law does not mandate collision coverage or comprehensive coverage.
New Hampshire Insurance Department
21 South Fruit Street, Suite 14, Concord, NH 03301
Phone: (603) 271-2261
Official Website: New Hampshire Insurance Department
Proof of Insurance Documents
New Hampshire requires vehicle operators who are subject to financial responsibility requirements to maintain proof at all times while operating a motor vehicle. Drivers placed under SR-22 requirements must file a uniform SR-22 certificate with the Division of Motor Vehicles. The following documentation is accepted:
- SR-22 certificate issued by an insurance company licensed to do business in New Hampshire showing policy number, coverage dates, and vehicle information
- Certificate of insurance from the insurance carrier demonstrating continuous coverage
Law enforcement officers may request proof of financial responsibility during traffic stops or accident investigations for drivers subject to filing requirements. Failure to maintain required SR-22 certificates results in immediate license and registration suspension.
Exceptions to Insurance Requirements
New Hampshire law provides that most drivers are not required to carry insurance unless they fall into specific categories. Financial responsibility requirements under RSA Chapter 264 apply only after:
- Conviction for driving while intoxicated
- Involvement in an at-fault accident
- Conviction for leaving the scene of an accident
- Second conviction for reckless operation
- Homicide or assault arising from vehicle operation
Drivers not subject to these requirements may operate vehicles without insurance, though they remain financially responsible for any damages they cause. Vehicles owned by the United States government, the State of New Hampshire, or political subdivisions may be exempt from certain requirements. Corporations may satisfy financial responsibility requirements through self-insurance certificates when approved by the Division of Motor Vehicles.
Insurance Requirements for Vehicle Registration
The New Hampshire Division of Motor Vehicles processes vehicle registration through town and city clerk offices throughout the state. Vehicle registration does not require proof of insurance for most drivers. Owners complete registration at their local town or city clerk's office, which determines residency and processes registration applications.
New residents must register vehicles within 60 days of establishing New Hampshire residency. The registration process does not mandate insurance verification unless the owner is subject to SR-22 filing requirements from previous violations or accidents.
New Hampshire motorists may renew vehicle registration online through town clerk websites, by mail, or in person at town clerk offices. Registration renewals do not require insurance verification for drivers not subject to financial responsibility filing requirements.
