Maine Car Insurance Requirements

Minimum Coverage Requirements

Maine requires drivers to carry minimum liability insurance of 50/100/25 — meaning $50,000 per person for bodily injury, $100,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $25,000 for property damage. PIP coverage is not required in Maine, though it may be available as an optional add-on. These are the legal minimums; most insurance professionals recommend carrying significantly higher limits to protect personal assets in a serious accident. A common recommendation is at least 100/300/100, which provides substantially more protection without a proportionally large premium increase.

Average Car Insurance Costs in Maine

Drivers in Maine typically pay approximately $900 per year ($75/month) for car insurance, based on 2026 industry average data. Individual premiums vary significantly based on driving record, age, vehicle type, annual mileage, and selected coverage levels. Drivers with clean records may see rates well below the state average, while those with violations, claims, or high-risk profiles may pay substantially more.

Car Insurance Rates by City in Maine

Insurance rates vary considerably by city within Maine, reflecting differences in traffic density, accident frequency, vehicle theft rates, and local repair costs. The following estimated annual premiums are based on a typical driver profile with full coverage.

City	Est. Annual Premium
Portland	$990/yr
Lewiston	$980/yr
Bangor	$920/yr
South Portland	$970/yr
Auburn	$950/yr
Augusta	$910/yr

Estimates based on 2026 industry data for a typical driver profile. Individual rates vary based on driving history, vehicle, and coverage selection.

State Regulations and Key Rules

Maine requires some of the highest minimum liability limits in the country and has the lowest uninsured driver rate nationally. Uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage is required at the same limits as liability. Maine is an at-fault state.

What Makes Maine Unique

Maine has the lowest uninsured driver rate in the nation at approximately 4.5%, reflecting strong enforcement and a culture of compliance. The state's rural roads and deer population make comprehensive coverage advisable.

Uninsured Drivers in Maine

Approximately 4.5% of drivers in Maine are estimated to be uninsured. This is among the lower uninsured rates in the country, though carrying uninsured motorist coverage remains a sound financial decision. Uninsured motorist (UM) coverage pays for your medical expenses and vehicle damage if you are hit by a driver without insurance or with insufficient coverage. Underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage fills the gap when the at-fault driver's policy limits are too low to cover your losses.

Risk Factors Specific to Maine

Maine has one of the highest deer-vehicle collision rates per mile in the nation. Winter driving conditions — heavy snow, ice, and limited road maintenance in rural areas — significantly increase accident risk from November through April.

How to Save on Car Insurance in Maine

Maine's already-low rates can be further reduced through multi-policy bundling and loyalty discounts with regional carriers. Rural drivers should consider the value of comprehensive coverage given the very high rate of deer collisions. Paying in full annually avoids installment fees.

• Compare quotes from at least 3–5 insurers annually — rates for identical coverage can vary by hundreds of dollars.
• State minimums are typically insufficient for serious accidents — consider liability limits of at least 100/300/100.
• Ask about bundling discounts if you also need home or renters insurance.
• Consider telematics or usage-based insurance if you drive fewer miles than average or primarily drive during off-peak hours.
• Review your coverage annually, especially after major life changes: moving, buying a new vehicle, or adding a teen driver.

The information on this page is provided for general informational purposes only and reflects estimated industry averages and state requirements as of 2026. Insurance regulations and rates change periodically; always verify current requirements with your state's department of insurance or a licensed insurance professional before making coverage decisions. City-level and statewide premiums shown are approximations — individual rates will vary based on personal factors.