A two-lane road runs through desert scrub toward distant rock formations at sunset, with a large saguaro cactus in the right foreground.

Arizona Auto Insurance Guide for First-Time Buyers

Arizona requires 25/50/15 liability coverage and is an at-fault state.

Compare my rates

Free to compare

Arizona at a Glance

25/50/15

Minimum liability limits, in thousands of dollars (per person / per accident / property)

At-fault

The at-fault driver's insurance pays for the damage they cause

Optional

PIP and uninsured motorist coverage are not required by law

15½

Minimum learner's permit age, 30 supervised driving hours

Source: state DMV, insurance department and statute records, verified July 2026

State Requirements

Arizona operates as a tort state, meaning the at-fault driver is financially responsible for damages in an accident. You must carry proof of insurance at all times and present it during traffic stops or after collisions. Arizona enforces compliance through the Motor Vehicle Division's insurance database — insurers report policy lapses directly to the state, triggering automatic license suspension.

Bodily Injury Liability

Pays medical expenses, lost wages, and legal costs when you cause an accident that injures someone else. If damages exceed your limit, your personal assets become vulnerable to lawsuits.

Property Damage Liability

Covers repair costs when you damage another person's vehicle, fence, building, or other property. First-time drivers should strongly consider higher limits given the financial exposure.

Uninsured Motorist Coverage

Protects you when an at-fault driver has no insurance or insufficient coverage to pay for your injuries and vehicle damage. Insurers must offer it at limits matching your liability coverage, but you can decline it by signing a waiver.

Medical Payments Coverage (MedPay)

Pays your medical bills after an accident regardless of fault, covering expenses like ambulance rides, hospital stays, and follow-up treatment. Arizona does not mandate MedPay, but it provides immediate payment without waiting for liability disputes to resolve.

Cost Overview

$343/mo

Typical monthly rate in Arizona, new drivers

Rate data: Insurify, 2026

A man in a dark suit and brown shoes stands beside an open rear door of a dark sedan on a paved waterfront lot, with a city skyline at dusk behind him.

Start Your First Policy on the Right Foot

Get Your First Auto Quote

Rules for new drivers

Night driving

midnight-5am (secondary)

Passengers

no more than 1 passenger younger than 18 for first 6 months (secondary)

Source: IIHS and AZ MVD, verified July 2026

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I stay on my parents' car insurance in Arizona?

You can remain on your parents' policy as long as you live in their household or are a full-time student under age 25, even if you attend college out of state. This is almost always cheaper than buying your own policy — family policies share the base premium, and you benefit from your parents' established driving history. Once you move out permanently or turn 26, you must purchase your own coverage.

Coverage Types