Insurance in Washington, D.C. : A Guide to Auto & Home Coverage
Why You Can Trust EverQuote
EverQuote powers millions of shopper requests every month, teaming up with industry-leading insurance specialists to address real-world challenges faced by people every day. We partner with the largest insurance providers in the nation, and our content is carefully crafted by experts and reviewed by licensed insurance agents for accuracy and relevance.
Washington, D.C. has a lot to offer new residents — a booming economy, stunning Smithsonian museums, first-class universities, and diverse neighborhoods like Foggy Bottom and Georgetown. Whether you're planning a move to the nation's capital or simply want to get up to speed on current insurance options, we have you covered.
Types of Insurance Coverage Available in Washington, D.C.
States set their own insurance requirements for new residents. While Washington, D.C. isn't a state, the District retains the right to establish laws for its residents, including those concerning insurance. You may not need every type of coverage available, but at minimum, you'll need car insurance if you plan on driving.
Auto Insurance
Washington, D.C. requires its resident drivers to carry liability and uninsured motorist coverage.
The liability portion of your policy pays for damages to others if you cause an accident. If you're hit by someone driving without insurance, your uninsured motorist policy may reimburse you for medical expenses and vehicle damages.
Other types of car insurance in Washington, D.C., including collision and comprehensive, are optional. A collision policy pays to repair your car if you're liable for an accident. Comprehensive coverage pays for damage to your vehicle from unforeseen events. You can set a deductible on your comprehensive and collision coverage, which you're responsible for paying if you file a claim.
Personal injury protection (PIP) is another voluntary coverage. It pays for medical expenses if you or your passengers experience injuries in a wreck, regardless of driver liability. Some PIP plans also include lost wages if you can't work because of your injuries.
Home Insurance
There is no law mandating homeowner's or renter's insurance in Washington, D.C. However, your mortgage or lease probably requires it.
A homeowner's policy covers damage to your property caused by vandalism, fire, and some weather-related events like tornadoes and hail. You may add coverages you think you'll need. For instance, if your home is in a low-lying, storm-prone area, buying flood insurance is probably worth it.
A renter's insurance policy pays for property losses if someone breaks into the home you rent or someone gets hurt while visiting you.
Average Cost of Insurance in Washington, D.C.
The cost of Washington, D.C. car insurance ranks just below the national average at $180 monthly for a full coverage policy. However, insurance premiums can vary widely. A move from one zip code to another or a switch to a different vehicle may substantially impact your rate.
A recent study of homeowner's insurance policies found Washington, D.C. premiums increased $1,060 since 2020. The average annual policy cost is just shy of $3,000.
Factors Affecting Insurance Rates in Washington, D.C.
What do insurers look for when setting premium rates on insurance? It depends on the type of policy. If you're buying car coverage, the insurance company considers the make and model of your vehicle and your location. It may also examine your driving and insurance claim history. If you have any recent tickets or claims, you'll probably pay more for coverage. Work on safe driving habits to keep your rates low.
A homeowner's policy premium depends on property value and location. Expect to pay more if you live in an area with high crime, or one that is vulnerable to bad storms and flooding.
Useful Washington, D.C. Insurance Resources
The District of Columbia Department of Insurance, Securities & Banking oversees matters concerning insurance. Through the website, you can find information about insurance compliance requirements, laws, and insurance agents. It also provides basic information about insuring businesses.
EverQuote helps Washington, D.C. residents find affordable car coverage. When you complete our simple online form, you'll receive a comprehensive comparison of insurance rates from multiple companies. It's free, and it just takes a few minutes of your time.