Program Information
Information concerning the Mississippi Vehicle Insurance Verification System
Mississippi police officers have the ability to electronically check vehicle insurance on the road. Authorities began to enforce the use of a statewide electronic vehicle insurance verification system in September 2017 to electronically verify whether someone has insurance on their vehicle using the vehicle’s plate or VIN number. In 2018, the penalty for not having insurance was changed from a civil violation to a criminal offense.
What are the minimum Mississippi vehicle insurance requirements?
According to Mississippi law, the minimum liability requirements are $25,000 per person (limited to a single accident), $50,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $25,000 per accident for property damage.
Why is it important to have vehicle insurance?
Vehicle liability insurance is the most effective way to protect yourself financially in case of an accident. Maintaining proof of insurance in your vehicle is required by law. Although state law does not allow a law enforcement officer to stop you solely to check if you have an insurance card, they can ask you for proof of insurance during a stop for any other statutory violation.
What does this mean for motorists who are driving without insurance?
Law enforcement is able to electronically verify your vehicle’s insurance status in real time, making it easier and quicker for them to enforce the law. Individuals who are driving uninsured in Mississippi may face a criminal misdemeanor citation.
What are the consequences for driving without insurance?
It’s against the law and uninsured drivers could be fined. Being cited for not carrying vehicle insurance results in the following fines.
- A first offense fine is $300.
- A second offense fine is $400.
- A third or subsequent offense fine is $500.
Additionally, the cost of a car accident could be more than actually paying for car insurance itself.
Are there any vehicles which are excluded from the law?
Yes, there are certain types of vehicles which are excluded from the program.
- Commercial
- Fleet
- Government-owned vehicles
- Farm equipment
- All-terrain vehicles
- Other large vehicles/trucks/other, including trailers, semi-trailers, ambulances, and emergency vehicles, buses, taxis, etc.
- Vehicles not registered/tagged in the State of Mississippi
Where can drivers get more information on the program?
For a wealth of additional information on the Mississippi Vehicle Insurance Verification System, please visit the Mississippi Insurance Department at the following link:
Mississippi Insurance Department - Auto Insurance
Is there a way to submit a records request?
You can request additional information about vehicle registration information through the Department of Revenue website.
Department of Revenue – Vehicle Registration Records Release Form
Other helpful links:
Mississippi Department of Public Safety - Driver Service Bureau