“Full Coverage” Car Insurance in California

In California, “full coverage” refers to a combination of liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage. While California law only requires liability and uninsured motorist insurance, many drivers opt for full coverage to protect themselves from repair costs, natural disasters, and significant out-of-pocket expenses. It's not an official insurance product but a personalized bundle to fit your needs and budget.

What is “Full Coverage” Car Insurance in California?

“Full coverage” is not an actual type of coverage. It is more of a helpful term than a formal insurance product. It refers to a bundle of coverages that go beyond the state’s liability minimums to offer broader protection for your car and wallet. Even though “full coverage” provides broader protection, it does not cover everything.

You’re legally required to have liability and uninsured motorist insurance in California, but “full coverage” is usually a mix of:

  • Liability coverage
  • Collision coverage
  • Comprehensive coverage

These types of coverage help with costs related to at-fault accidents, natural disasters, theft, and more. They’re particularly useful in California, where wildfire risks, traffic congestion, and high repair costs are common.

If you’re leasing or financing a car, the combination of policies that typically comprise full coverage is often required. Otherwise, it’s an optional upgrade that could save you thousands in the event of an accident.

Liability Coverages

In California, liability insurance is legally required. Liability insurance is not designed to protect your car, but other people. Coverage includes:

Bodily Injury Liability: Helps pay medical bills if you hurt someone in an accident.

Property Damage Liability: Covers damage to someone else’s vehicle or property.

As of 2025, California's minimum liability limits follow a 30/60/15 rule:

  • $30,000 for bodily injury or death to one person
  • $60,000 total for bodily injury or death per accident
  • $15,000 for property damage

Liability coverage won’t cover your own vehicle’s repairs. That’s why many drivers choose to add collision or comprehensive coverage for better protection.

Uninsured Motorist Coverage

California has one of the highest rates of uninsured drivers and hit-and-runs. Having uninsured motorist coverage is mandated and can help protect you from having to cover the costs yourself.

California drivers can typically choose between:

  • Uninsured Motorist (UM): Helps pay for injuries, lost wages, and emotional distress.
  • Uninsured Motorist Property Damage (UMPD): Helps pay for vehicle repairs and other property losses.

With the right uninsured motorist coverage, you’ll be ready to handle the aftermath of an accident and get back on the road. GEICO can help you build a policy that keeps you protected, even if the other driver isn’t.

Vehicle Coverages

If you only have the basic coverage requirements, you won’t benefit much if your car is also damaged. For that, you may need:

With California being at a higher risk of earthquakes or fender-benders during rush hour, the combination of policies that comprise “full coverage” can help keep you and your car secure.

Medical Coverage

Even with the help of health insurance, the costs associated with a car accident can pile up quickly.

Limitations in Full Coverage

“Full coverage” gives you strong protection, but it doesn’t cover you for everything. If your car is damaged while parked illegally, or if a claim isn’t properly documented, it might not be covered by your policy. Understanding what’s excluded helps you stay fully prepared.

Does California Require “Full Coverage” Car Insurance?

No, “full coverage” is not required in California. Liability coverage is the only car coverage that is required, which helps pay for damages or injuries you cause to others. “Full coverage” is often a lender requirement if you’ve financed or leased your vehicle.

Though it is not required, many drivers choose it, especially in areas with dense traffic, high theft rates, or frequent environmental risks like wildfires or flooding. California is not a no-fault state, but the state does have a higher-than-average rate of traffic congestion, wildfires, and vehicle theft. These factors make “full coverage” a proactive option to protect against potential risks in the Golden State.

Optional Add-Ons to “Full Coverage”

“Full coverage” is a great foundation to protect you and your car, but GEICO also offers several optional add-ons to make your policy even more tailored to your needs.

  • Emergency Roadside Service: This add-on provides emergency services like fuel delivery, tire changes, battery jumps, and lock-out assistance. It’s a great option if you often drive long distances or through areas with limited service stations.
  • Rental Reimbursement: If your vehicle is in the shop for repairs after an accident, rental reimbursement will help cover the cost of a rental car. This is particularly helpful in California, where commutes can be long and public transportation may not always be the most convenient option.
  • Mechanical Breakdown Insurance: This coverage offers protection for mechanical failures that aren't caused by an accident. If your car breaks down, this coverage can help you avoid costly repairs.
  • Towing and Labor Costs Coverage: This option can cover the cost of towing your vehicle to a repair shop after a breakdown. In rural or remote areas of California, where help can be far away, towing coverage can be crucial for ensuring you're not stranded.
  • Customized Equipment Coverage: If you’ve added customizations or aftermarket equipment to your vehicle, this coverage protects those additions. Whether you’ve installed a custom sound system or enhanced your vehicle for fun times in California’s diverse terrain, this add-on ensures your investment is protected.

These extras can give you a wider range of protection and less to worry about on the road.

Ways to Save on “Full Coverage” with GEICO

GEICO offers smart savings so that “full coverage” doesn’t have to mean full price:

  • Multi-policy discount: Bundle your car insurance with homeowners insurance to unlock extra savings.
  • Safe driver discount: With a clean driving record, you can benefit from lower premiums.
  • Good student discount: If you’re a student with good grades, you may be eligible for a reduced rate.

Get a California Car Insurance Quote in California Today!

Getting a car insurance quote in California is quick and easy with GEICO. Whether you prefer to get started online or speak directly to an agent, the process is designed to be simple and convenient.

Just answer a few quick questions about your car and driving habits, and you’ll be on your way to a personalized quote. Prefer to talk it through? Our agents are ready to help.

For more information, see our GEICO Mobile User Agreement, our Text Messaging Terms and Conditions, and GEICO's Privacy Policy.