CarInsurance.com Insights
- Mandatory coverage: Puerto Rico drivers must have compulsory liability insurance (CLI) and ACAA medical liability when registering or renewing their vehicle.
- CLI basics: CLI covers third-party bodily injury and property damage up to the statutory minimums.
- No-fault medical: ACAA provides mandatory medical benefits after a crash, similar to no-fault Personal Injury Protection.
- Penalties exist: Driving without required insurance is illegal and carries fines and financial liability.
- Optional coverage matters: To protect your own car and finances, consider private policies with higher limits and comprehensive coverage.
What car insurance is required in Puerto Rico?
Puerto Rico mandates that all vehicles operating on public roads carry Seguro de Responsabilidad Obligatorio (Compulsory Liability Insurance, CLI) — basic liability coverage that must meet statutory minimums and is typically included when you register or renew your marbete (vehicle tag).
Drivers must also have medical liability coverage provided through the Puerto Rico Automobile Accident Compensation Administration (ACAA), which functions similarly to no-fault medical/Personal Injury Protection insurance.
Compulsory Liability Insurance (CLI), explained
CLI is the baseline public liability coverage required by law. It protects other people’s property and bodily injury up to legal minimum limits if you cause a crash. Puerto Rico’s system classifies this as a compulsory program that’s often bundled with vehicle registration.
ACAA Medical Liability Coverage
The ACAA administers mandatory injury compensation for traffic accidents in Puerto Rico. All drivers must pay for ACAA coverage, separate from CLI, when renewing their marbete. This coverage helps pay medical costs regardless of fault, functioning like a no-fault PIP program.
What are the penalties for driving without insurance in Puerto Rico?
Failing to carry the required CLI and ACAA coverages is a misdemeanor in Puerto Rico. Penalties can include fines (e.g., around $500), additional fines for expired registration or missing mandatory coverages, and legal liability for damages if involved in an accident while uninsured.
Why the basic requirements aren’t enough
Minimum mandatory insurance protects third parties and basic medical costs, but often doesn’t cover:
Collision, comprehensive, uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage
For robust protection, many drivers purchase private auto insurance policies with higher limits and broader coverage.
- Your own vehicle damage
- Higher liability limits beyond minimums
- Collision, comprehensive, uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage
For robust protection, many drivers purchase private auto insurance policies with higher limits and broader coverage.
Speak with a friendly agent and get your quote in minutes!
Frequently Asked Questions: Car insurance in Puerto Rico
Is car insurance required in Puerto Rico?
Yes. All vehicles must carry compulsory liability insurance and ACAA medical liability coverage to legally operate on public roads.
What is compulsory liability insurance (CLI)?
CLI is the minimum mandatory liability insurance that covers bodily injury and property damage you cause to others up to the statutory limits.
What does ACAA cover?
ACAA provides mandatory medical compensation to injured parties regardless of fault, similar to no-fault Personal Injury Protection programs.
Will basic mandatory coverage cover my own car?
No. Basic CLI and ACAA do not cover damage to your own vehicle — additional private coverage is needed for that.
What happens if I drive without the required insurance?
You can face misdemeanor fines, additional penalties for registration issues, and personal liability for any accident damages.
Still have a question? Ask our experts
Get advice from an experienced insurance professional. Our experts will help you navigate your insurance questions with clarity and confidence.
Browse all FAQs
