Proof of Insurance

• It is required to show proof of insurance after an accident or when you are pulled over by law enforcement. A driver must carry proof of insurance in the vehicle at all times. The Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) uses a database that compares registered vehicles with a matching insurance policy to ensure that drivers have auto insurance. A letter is sent to car owners with no insurance requesting proof of insurance. Drivers who are found guilty of serious driving offenses, such as driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol or driving without auto insurance, must file an SR-22 form. Drivers who have multiple high-risk moving violations, or cause an accident, can also be required to file an SR-22 form.
  
  

Penalties

• If proof of insurance is not provided after a letter is sent to the car owner, the Utah DMV and law enforcement are notified. A car owner found guilty of not having valid auto insurance can have his or her vehicle registration suspended by the DMV. Failure to have the minimum insurance is a Class B misdemeanor and is punishable by a minimum $400 fine. A second offense is punishable by a minimum $1,000 fine. The Utah Department of Public Safety (DPS) must suspend the license of a driver with no insurance. A driver's license cannot be renewed or a new one issued to a driver with no insurance. DPS is required to notify the DMV when proof of insurance is provided.
  
  

Time Frame

• Proof of insurance with an SR-22 form is required for three years. DPS ensures that car owners have continuous insurance coverage on the vehicle. If you are convicted under this law and cancel your auto insurance, you must turn over your driver's license to the DMV. Applying for a new driver's license during this time will require insurance to be provided to DPS.
  
  

Registration

• A driver must meet specific requirements to have the vehicle's registration reinstated. Proof of ownership with the vehicle's title or registration card and photo identification is necessary. A $100 reinstatement fee must be paid to the DMV. Showing proof of insurance can be done by showing a current SR-22 form from a licensed Utah auto insurance company, or showing a current auto policy, an insurance binder, or an insurance declaration.
  
  

Coverage

• Utah's minimum required auto insurance is $25,000, and $50,000 in bodily injury coverage, along with $15,000 in property damage coverage. Personal Injury Protection of $3,000 is necessary, too.