Idaho Auto Insurance

Idaho uses a Tort insurance system, which means that whoever causes a car accident must pay for the material damage and medical expenses for the injured parties. Victims may also pursue compensation for lost wages or pain and suffering.

Minimum Liability Requirements in Idaho

As of April 2026, Idaho requires drivers to carry minimum liability coverage of 25/50/15 — at least $25,000 in bodily injury liability per injured person, up to $50,000 per accident, and $15,000 in property damage liability.

Source: CarInsurance.com, "US State Minimum Liability Car Insurance Requirements," updated April 15, 2026.

Average Car Insurance Premiums in Idaho

Drivers in Idaho pay an average of $1,560 a year for full-coverage car insurance — 47% below the national average of $2,922 a year.

Source: Experian, "Car Insurance Average Costs by State," published September 9, 2026.

Use of cellphones when driving

Idaho Senate has passed a bill that puts a ban on text-based communications for drivers who are operating a vehicle. There are no further restrictions on the use of mobile phones, but hands-free devices are always recommended when driving a car. More details on cellphone driving laws  in Idaho and other states are available here.

Teenage driving regulations

Idaho uses the Graduated Driver License (GDL) system, a concept that tries to keep teenage drivers away from risky situations and introduces them gradually to driving. Aspiring drivers may get a learner’s permit once they are 14 and a half years old. By the time they turn 17, they are subject to some restrictions:

• they must always be accompanied by a grown-up licensed driver;
• they may not carry more than one passenger below 17; direct family members are an exception;
• all their occupants must wear seatbelts;

Penalties for driving uninsured

Upon the first violation, you will be required to file a SR22 certificate for one year. The filing term goes up to three years for a second violation within five years.

First-time offenders will also be fined $75.00. All subsequent violations within a five year period of time are considered misdemeanors, are subject to fines of up to $1,000, jail time of up to 6 months, or both.

AutoInsuranceQuery editorial team. Last reviewed: September 16, 2026.