Penalties for Driving Without Insurance in Arkansas

Driving without car insurance in Arkansas is a serious offense with steep financial and legal consequences. Like all U.S. states, Arkansas mandates that every registered vehicle be covered by a minimum level of auto liability insurance. Failing to comply can result in fines, license suspensions, and even vehicle impoundment.

Arkansas Auto Insurance Requirements

Before delving into penalties, it's important to understand what the law requires. All Arkansas drivers must carry at least the state minimum liability insurance, which includes:

• $25,000 for bodily injury per person
• $50,000 for total bodily injury per accident
• $25,000 for property damage

You can learn more about these requirements in our guide to Minimum Car Insurance Requirements in Arkansas.

First Offense Penalties

If you're caught driving without insurance for the first time in Arkansas, expect the following consequences:

• Fine: Between $50 and $250
• License Plate Removal: Law enforcement may remove your vehicle's license plate
• Registration Suspension: Your vehicle registration may be suspended until valid proof of insurance is provided
• Proof of Insurance Required: You must show valid insurance at the time of your court hearing

The court may dismiss the charge if you can prove you had valid insurance at the time of the citation, or if you purchase insurance before your court date.

Subsequent Offenses

Repeat violations escalate quickly:

• Second Offense: Fine ranges from $250 to $500
• Third or More Offenses: Fines can reach up to $1,000
• Possible Jail Time: Up to one year in county jail
• Additional Registration and Plate Penalties: Your registration and plates will likely be suspended or revoked

Arkansas imposes stricter penalties with each repeat offense to deter uninsured driving and reduce risk on the roads.

Vehicle Impoundment

In some cases, particularly after multiple violations, law enforcement may impound your vehicle. To reclaim it, you'll need to:

• Provide proof of valid insurance
• Pay towing and storage fees
• Resolve all fines and court fees

Reinstating Registration and Plates

To reinstate your vehicle registration and license plates after a suspension, you must:

1. Provide proof of current insurance coverage
2. Pay a reinstatement fee (typically $100)
3. Submit proof of compliance to the Arkansas Office of Motor Vehicle (OMV)

Find more guidance in our Arkansas Traffic Laws Overview.

Court Appearance and Proof of Insurance

When cited for driving without insurance, you're usually required to appear in court. If you obtain valid insurance coverage before your court date and can present proof (such as a valid insurance card or policy declaration), the judge may reduce or dismiss the penalties.

See what qualifies as acceptable documentation in our resource on What Counts as Proof of Insurance in Arkansas.

SR-22 and High-Risk Insurance

Arkansas does not typically require SR-22 insurance forms like some other states. However, frequent offenses or serious accidents might prompt insurers to classify you as a high-risk driver, significantly increasing your premiums.

Stay Compliant, Stay Insured

The easiest way to avoid the headaches of fines, license suspensions, and court appearances is to maintain valid car insurance at all times. If you’re unsure whether your coverage meets state requirements, consult your provider or refer to our full guide on Penalties for Driving Without Insurance in Arkansas.