Car Insurance in Arkansas
Arkansas requires drivers to carry at least 25/50/25 in liability coverage, plus uninsured motorist coverage. Insurers must also offer $5,000 in personal injury protection (PIP), which drivers can accept or reject in writing.
We compare quotes from carriers like
Arkansas at a glance
Data as of 2023Average cost
$1,051/yr
≈ $88/mo
vs U.S. average
-18%
below the national avg of $1,282/yr
Required minimums
25/50/25
+ $5K PIP
Source: NAIC (2023). Annual average expenditure per insured vehicle.
Arkansas requires drivers to carry at least 25/50/25 in liability coverage, plus uninsured motorist coverage. Insurers must also offer $5,000 in personal injury protection (PIP), which drivers can accept or reject in writing.
As an at-fault state with add-on PIP, the structure is different from a true no-fault state — your liability still pays the other party, but your optional PIP covers your own medical costs. Comparing carriers is the best way to keep total premium down.
Arkansas minimum car insurance requirements
Arkansas requires $25,000 of bodily injury liability per person, $50,000 per accident, and $25,000 in property damage liability, plus uninsured motorist coverage. PIP of $5,000 is offered by default and can be waived in writing. Lenders require collision and comprehensive on financed vehicles.
Arkansas is an "add-on" state — drivers must be offered $5,000 in PIP, but can reject it in writing. Uninsured motorist coverage is also required.
How much does car insurance cost in Arkansas?
The average driver in Arkansas pays $1,051 per year for auto insurance — that's 18% below the U.S. national average of $1,282/yr. Lower-than-average rates often reflect lower traffic density, fewer claims per insured vehicle, or less stringent coverage requirements.
Arkansas vs the national average
18% below the national average of $1,282/yr.
Source: NAIC (2023). Annual average expenditure per insured vehicle.
How Arkansas premiums have changed since 2019
Auto insurance costs in Arkansas have risen 17% over the past five years. The 2022–2023 jump mirrors a national trend: rising repair costs (vehicle complexity and parts inflation), more frequent severe accidents, and higher litigation costs pushed premiums up faster than overall inflation.
5-year trend: Arkansas vs national average
Arkansas is up 17% from $900 in 2019 to $1,051 in 2023.
Source: NAIC Auto Insurance Database Report (2022/2023), Table 4 — Average Expenditure.
Types of car insurance coverage
A Arkansas policy is built from a few core coverages. Liability is required; the rest are optional but often worth it.
| Coverage | What it covers | Required? |
|---|---|---|
| Liability | Injuries and property damage you cause to others | Required (state minimum) |
| Collision | Repairs to your own car after a crash | Optional* |
| Comprehensive | Theft, fire, weather, vandalism, animal strikes | Optional* |
| Uninsured motorist | Your costs if the at-fault driver has no insurance | Varies by state |
*Collision and comprehensive are usually required by your lender if you lease or finance your vehicle.
Driving without car insurance in Arkansas
Driving uninsured in Arkansas can be costly. Penalties typically include fines, suspension of your license and registration, and reinstatement fees. If you cause an accident while uninsured, you can also be held personally responsible for the other party's injuries and damage. You may also be required to file an SR-22 certificate to reinstate your license.
How to find cheaper car insurance in Arkansas
Rates for the same driver can vary widely between insurers in Arkansas, so comparing several quotes is the most effective way to save. A few other ways to lower your premium:
- Raise your deductible if you can cover it in a claim
- Ask about every discount you qualify for
- Keep a clean driving record and good credit (where the state allows it as a rating factor)
- Reconsider collision and comprehensive on an older vehicle
For more, see our guides on how to lower your premium and what affects your rate.
Coverage requirements last verified May 29, 2026. Always confirm current minimums with your state’s Department of Insurance.
Arkansas car insurance FAQs
Common questions about auto insurance in Arkansas
Ready to Start Saving on Car Insurance?
Compare car insurance quotes from top carriers and find the coverage that fits your needs and budget.