Car Insurance in Washington D.C.
- GEICO offers the cheapest liability at $75/mo.
- Erie has the cheapest full coverage at $188/mo.
Enter your ZIP code to start your search for Washington, D.C. car insurance:
The Zebra works with 100+ insurance partners to connect you with the best coverage in Washington D.C. at the right price.
About The Zebra's recommendations
Renata joined The Zebra in 2020 as a Customer Experience Agent. Since 2021, she has worked as a licensed insurance professional and content strategis…
Credentials
- Licensed Insurance Agent — Property and Casualty
- 5 years of experience in the insurance industry
Kristine joined The Zebra in 2019 as an in-house content researcher and writer, with a property and casualty insurance license. Before joining The Ze…
Credentials
- Licensed Insurance Agent — Property and Casualty
- 6+ years of Experience in the Insurance Industry
Car insurance quotes in Washington, D.C.
The average car insurance rate in Washington, D.C. is $1,425 for a six-month policy — 23% more expensive than the U.S. average.[1] For drivers looking to save, Erie and GEICO are the cheapest providers for full coverage and liability only.
According to our data, 34% of Washingtonians believe they’re overpaying for car insurance.[2] Yet, many are still open to paying a premium for exceptional customer service and more extensive coverage options.
Cheapest full coverage in D.C.
- Erie offered the cheapest full coverage in Washington, D.C. at $188/mo.
Cheapest liability coverage in D.C.
- GEICO offered the cheapest liability coverage in Washington, D.C. at $75/mo.
Best customer service in D.C.
- Erie Insurance scored 704 in JD Power's latest study — the highest in Washington, D.C..
Cheap full coverage insurance in Washington, D.C.
In 2026, the average cost of full coverage insurance in Washington, D.C. is $1,425 for a six-month policy or $237 per month. Outside of USAA, which caters to select members, Erie offers the cheapest rates in DC for full coverage ($188 per month).
Updating data...
| Company | Avg. 6 Mo. Premium | Avg. Monthly Premium |
|---|---|---|
| USAA | $771 | $128 |
| Erie | $1,129 | $188 |
| Nationwide | $1,204 | $201 |
| GEICO | $1,211 | $202 |
| State Farm | $1,774 | $296 |
| Progressive | $2,101 | $350 |
| Allstate | $2,677 | $446 |
Source: The Zebra
The Zebra’s Dynamic Insurance Rating Tool data methodology
The Zebra’s Dynamic Insurance Rating Tool for home and auto insurance rates utilizes the latest ZIP code-level rate filings from across the U.S., sourced from Quadrant Information Services and S&P Global. These filings, typically updated annually or biennially by insurers, are verified through Quadrant’s QA process and then integrated into The Zebra’s estimator.
The displayed rates are based on a dynamic home and auto profile designed to reflect the content of the page. This profile is tailored to match specific factors such as age, location, and coverage level, which are adjusted based on the page content to show how these variables can impact premiums.
For a comprehensive understanding, see our detailed methodology.
Cheap liability insurance in Washington, D.C.
The average cost for liability insurance in Washington, D.C. is $591 for a 6-month policy.[1] For our user profile, GEICO offers the most affordable liability insurance options in the district at $75/mo.
According to our data, 48% of Washington, D.C. drivers carry only the district-required liability coverage.[2] In Washington, D.C., the law mandates minimum liability limits of 25/50/10. Learn more about car insurance requirements in the District of Colombia with our helpful guide.
Updating data...
| Company | Avg. 6 Mo. Premium | Avg. Monthly Premium |
|---|---|---|
| USAA | $308 | $51 |
| GEICO | $451 | $75 |
| Erie | $461 | $77 |
| Nationwide | $603 | $100 |
| State Farm | $887 | $148 |
| Allstate | $1,059 | $177 |
| Progressive | $1,135 | $189 |
Source: The Zebra
Washington, D.C. has a unique choice no-fault auto insurance system.[4] After most accidents, injured drivers can choose to receive benefits through their own Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage regardless of who caused the crash, or they can opt out of the no-fault system and pursue a claim against the at-fault driver under certain circumstances. This hybrid approach provides drivers with greater flexibility than the traditional no-fault or at-fault systems used in most states.
Renata Balasco, licensed insurance writer at The Zebra
Updating data...
| Company | Liability Coverage - 6mo | Full Coverage - 6mo |
|---|---|---|
| USAA | $308 | $771 |
| State Farm | $887 | $1,774 |
| Progressive | $1,135 | $2,101 |
| Nationwide | $603 | $1,204 |
| GEICO | $451 | $1,211 |
| Erie | $461 | $1,129 |
| Allstate | $1,059 | $2,677 |
Source: The Zebra
What are the best car insurance companies in Washington, D.C.?
We’ve named Erie Insurance as Washington DC's top car insurance provider. Our decision is based on a combination of consumer feedback, expert evaluations from sources like J.D. Power, Trustpilot, and AM Best, as well as a thorough review of their discounts and coverage options.
Add insurance companies to the tool below to see how each stacks up against our pick on a national level.
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Local insights
Drivers near you in Washington DC weigh in
"I'm 57, married, no accidents, 2019 SUV paid off and pay $365/ 6 month with Progressive."
-Reddit user on r/Washington DC
"Lemonade was cheap last time I checked."
-Reddit user on r/Washington DC
Compare car insurance rates from the best companies in Washington DC.
Trusted expertise, every step
Erica began at The Zebra in 2020 as a Licensed Service Agent, bringing six years of insurance experience from her career at Progressive where she spe…
Credentials
- Licensed Insurance Agent — Property and Casualty
- 10+ years in the insurance industry
Blake joined The Zebra in 2021 after a 5-year career at GEICO, where he started as a producer selling auto, property, cycle, RV, and boat policies be…
Credentials
- Licensed Insurance Agent - Property and Casualty
- 7+ years insurance experience
With over 6 years of industry experience spanning commercial and personal insurance lines, Nicholas is a dedicated insurance professional lending his…
Credentials
- Licensed Insurance Agent — Property and Casualty
Washington, D.C. auto insurance quotes after an accident or ticket
Your driving history plays a major role in what you’ll pay for car insurance in Washington, D.C.. Even one at-fault accident can send your premiums soaring. Insurers see your past accidents as a sign of risk, so even a single incident can lead to a steep rate increase. Check out the average cost of coverage from top Washington, D.C. insurers after an at-fault accident.
Source: The Zebra
Source: The Zebra
Washington, D.C. car insurance for high-risk drivers
For high-risk drivers in Washington, D.C. with serious infractions like a DUI or reckless driving, the consequences extend far beyond fines — they can significantly impact your car insurance. These violations often lead to higher premiums, potential policy cancellations, and challenges in finding coverage.
Understanding D.C. car insurance laws and regulations is crucial for staying on the road legally. Our comprehensive guide breaks down the essentials, from mandatory coverage to the penalties for non-compliance, helping you navigate the complexities of high-risk auto insurance in the state.
Rate increase: +$889
The average 6-month rate increase after a DUI in Washington, D.C.. This premium increase typically lasts 3-5 years.
First time DUI penalties
- Up to 180 days in jail
- Up to a $1,000 fine
- License revocation for up to 6 months
DUI record impact timeline
- DMV record: 10 years
- Criminal record: Permanent unless sealed (requires proof of innocence, acquittal, or case dismissal)
Cheap car insurance after a DUI in Washington, D.C.
If you're convicted of a DUI violation in Washington, D.C., it’s a good idea to carfully review your insurance plan options. Auto insurance premiums following a DUI can vary substantially by insurer. Check out the table below to see average rates by top insurers in Washington, D.C..
Updating data...
| Company | Avg. 6 Mo. Premium | Avg. Monthly Premium |
|---|---|---|
| USAA | $1,491 | $249 |
| Erie | $1,752 | $292 |
| GEICO | $2,263 | $377 |
| Nationwide | $2,292 | $382 |
| Progressive | $2,532 | $422 |
| State Farm | $2,649 | $441 |
| Allstate | $3,277 | $546 |
Source: The Zebra
There is no car insurer in particular that offers inexpensive DUI car insurance. The recommended way to save in the wake of a DUI citation is to shop around.
Washington, D.C. SR-22 laws
An SR-22 is a routine legal requirement triggered by a violation such as a DUI conviction, a ticket for driving without insurance, an at-fault collision, driving with a suspended license, or accumulating too many points on your license. It is not a type of insurance policy, but a form issued by your insurance company with the state of Washington, D.C. to ensure that you remain insured. In Washington, D.C. you are required to have an SR-22 for a minimum of 3 years after getting a DUI.
Finding cheap auto insurance with an SR-22 in Washington, D.C. might require some research, but it could pay off in the end.
How to acquire an SR-22 in Washington, D.C.
For currently insured drivers
If you already have auto insurance, getting an SR-22 certificate is straightforward. Contact your car insurance company ask the company to file an SR-22 request for you. If your insurer isn’t willing to file a request, you'll need to look for a new insurer.
For uninsured drivers
When filing for a new policy, you might be saddled with an up-front fee to have your prospective insurer file an SR-22 request for you and to cover your high-risk driving profile. Needing an SR-22 might disqualify you from purchasing insurance from some companies, while others would be happy to sell you a policy.
For drivers without a vehicle
Not owning a vehicle makes it more difficult to obtain an SR-22, as you will need to furnish proof of insurance to receive the certificate. In this scenario, purchase a non-owners car insurance policy before filing an SR-22 request. Non-owners auto insurance is typically less expensive than traditional coverage since it doesn't protect against material damage to your vehicle.
Find an affordable policy in Washington, D.C. in minutes!
How have average car insurance costs in Washington, D.C. changed?
Washington DC's auto insurance market has experienced notable ups and downs in recent years, with premiums shifting alongside economic conditions, regulatory changes, and evolving risk factors. Rates have seen periods of sharp increases, often tied to rising claim costs and broader inflation trends, as well as occasional slowdowns or declines.
This kind of volatility highlights why it pays to shop around—insurance prices can vary widely depending on timing, market conditions, and individual factors, making regular comparison one of the easiest ways for drivers to avoid overpaying.
| Year | Avg. Annual Premium — Washington DC |
|---|---|
| 2026 | $2,502 |
| 2025 | $2,816 |
| 2024 | $2,207 |
| 2023 | $1,501 |
| 2022 | $2,212 |
| 2021 | $1,457 |
| 2020 | $1,427 |
| 2019 | $1,393 |
| 2018 | $1,581 |
| 2017 | $1,796 |
| 2016 | $1,562 |
| 2015 | $1,885 |
Save money on your next car insurance policy!
Washington, D.C. car insurance FAQs
Below you'll find answers to some of the most commonly asked questions regarding Washington, D.C. auto insurance.
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Data Methodology. The Zebra’s Dynamic Insurance Rating Tool
Data Methodology. The Zebra’s Dynamic Insurance Rating Tool
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Anonymized User Surveys. The Zebra
Anonymized User Surveys. The Zebra
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U.S. Auto Insurance Study. J.D. Power
U.S. Auto Insurance Study. J.D. Power
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Washington, D.C. Gives Drivers a Choice After an Accident. Unique choice no-fault auto insurance system
Washington, D.C. Gives Drivers a Choice After an Accident. Unique choice no-fault auto insurance system
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About The Zebra
The Zebra is not an insurance company. We publish data-backed, expert-reviewed resources to help consumers make more informed insurance decisions.
- The Zebra’s insurance content is written and reviewed for accuracy by licensed insurance agents.
- The Zebra’s insurance editorial content is not subject to review or alteration by insurance companies or partners.
- The Zebra’s editorial team operates independently of the company’s partnerships and commercialization interests, publishing unbiased information for consumer benefit.
- The auto insurance rates published on The Zebra’s pages are based on a comprehensive analysis of car insurance pricing data, evaluating more than 83 million insurance rates from across the United States.
