All 50 states require drivers to have some type of car insurance. If you are caught driving without insurance, you will likely receive a ticket. The ticket for insurance violations can result in fines ranging from $150 to $500. In some states, your license will be suspended. If you are in an accident and you don't have car insurance, your penalties could be higher and you may even do jail time if the accident is your fault. States enacted "financial responsibility" laws to protect citizens involved in car crashes. If a driver was in a wreck and the other driver was at fault and didn't have insurance, it would be hard to recoup losses. Not only do states require insurance coverage, but if your vehicle is financed, most lenders require you to have full coverage insurance. If your lender learns you don't have car insurance, they could repossess your car.