Can you get pulled over for no insurance in Michigan?
Asked by: Prof. Celestino Harber | Last update: July 14, 2025Score: 4.2/5 (46 votes)
What happens if you get pulled over with no insurance in Michigan?
Guilty of a misdemeanor: If you drive without insurance in Michigan, you are guilty of a misdemeanor. (MCL 500.3102(2)) Fine of $200 to $500: If you are convicted of driving without insurance in Michigan, you “shall be fined not less than $200.00 nor more than $500.00” and/or sent to jail.
Will police pull you over for no insurance?
If you get pulled over without insurance, even if you're a first-time offender, you're likely to get a ticket that carries fines. Fines for driving a car without insurance can reach as high as $5,000 in some states. Many states will also suspend an uninsured driver's license, even if you're a first-time offender.
Can Michigan police tell if you have insurance?
In Michigan, the police can tell if you have insurance by running your plates because every 14 days Michigan auto insurance companies must notify the Michigan Secretary of State of the vehicles they insure and that data is available to them through the LEIN system which they access on their in-car computers.
How many points is driving without insurance in Michigan?
Points on Driving Record: Driving without insurance can result in points added to one's driving record. In Michigan, this is typically 6 points. Increased Insurance Premiums: After a violation, when the driver seeks to get insured again, they may face increased premiums due to the perceived risk by insurance providers.
What happens if you get caught without insurance
How long does 1 point stay on your driving record in Michigan?
Each traffic violation has a point value, which is set by law in the Michigan Vehicle Code. Points are placed on your driving record only after you have been convicted of a moving violation. Points placed on your driving record remain there for two years from the date of conviction.
How long can you go without car insurance?
It is a crime to drive almost anywhere without car insurance coverage, even for a minute or just down the street. So, how long can you be without car insurance? If you're driving, you can't. Anytime you get behind the wheel as a licensed driver, you need insurance coverage or you'll risk incurring major consequences.
How do police catch uninsured drivers?
Officers can determine your insurance status by scanning your license plate, so it's important to always carry proof with you. To that end, yes — cops do know if a car has valid insurance.
Can you show proof of insurance on your phone in Michigan?
The law allows residents and motorists to "display[] an electronic copy of his or her certificate of insurance upon request." The law prohibits the police officer from looking at other apps or information on the person's smartphone, although the officer may be permitted to take the phone to a safer location to verify ...
Why do cops ask if you have insurance?
It's the law to have it, that's why they ask. Because most states now have an insurance requirement law in order for a vehicle to be legally driven.
What to do if no car insurance will take you?
If you're denied insurance, the first step is to call another insurer—different companies have different parameters. However, if several insurers have denied you, you may need to consider these options: Join a state assigned risk pool – Auto insurers participate on a voluntary basis in state assigned risk pools.
What are your rights when you get pulled over in Michigan?
Your Rights When Stopped by Police While Driving
Keep your hands visible, preferably on the steering wheel, until instructed otherwise. You Can Decline to Answer Questions: You do not have to answer questions about where you are going, why you were driving, or anything unrelated to your identity and documents.
Is Michigan a no-fault state?
NO-FAULT INSURANCE is required by law in Michigan. Every owner of a car must buy certain basic coverages in order to get license plates. It is against the law to drive or let your car be driven without no-fault insurance.
What is the law on no insurance in Michigan?
To drive legally in Michigan, state law requires the purchase of no-fault automobile insurance. Driving without insurance is punishable as a misdemeanor with a fine of up to $500 and up to one year in jail.
Can Michigan cops see if you have insurance?
In Michigan, the Law Enforcement Information Network (LEIN) database is a statewide computerized information system that enables officers to access and/or modify stored information. This includes verifying insurance coverage through drivers' license records and vehicle registrations.
Can I use my phone as proof of insurance?
Can you present digital proof of insurance? Yes, you can provide a picture of your vehicle's insurance information. California Vehicle Code 16028 states, “The evidence of financial responsibility may be provided using a mobile electronic device.”
How do I protect myself from uninsured drivers?
One of the best ways to protect yourself from uninsured and underinsured drivers is to be sure you have enough of the right coverage, including uninsured and underinsured coverage, and high enough limits yourself.
What do police see when they run your plates?
When a police officer runs your license plate, they receive a range of information about you and your vehicle. The main information provided is your license plate number, which allows them to access the vehicle's registration details and owner information.
What happens if I haven't had car insurance?
License suspension or fine: In some situations, the department of motor vehicles in your state will be notified that you are without insurance. They can then suspend your license or fine you. You may also be required to carry an SR-22 for several years, which is an added expense on your next auto policy.
Can you get your car back if you don't have insurance?
No, if your car gets impounded, you must present the necessary documentation, including your driver's license, the vehicle's vehicle identification number, and proof of auto insurance, to get it released. If you don't have proof of insurance, you'll need to buy a policy before you can get your car back.
How long can you drive after insurance expires?
If your auto insurance policy lapses, typically due to a missed payment, most car insurance companies will give you a grace period to get back on track. The period of time to make up the payment without a lapse in coverage varies, but it's often 10 to 20 days.
Do two points on a license affect insurance?
While insurers don't directly factor points into your car insurance rate, your rate is likely to increase if you've accumulated a significant amount of points simply due to the number of violations on your record.
How much is it to reinstate your license in Michigan?
To get your license back, you must pay all the fines you owe. You must also pay the $125 reinstatement fee to get your license back. You may need to ask for a hearing with the SOS before you can get your license back. You can use the Request for Hearing form from the Michigan Department of State.