The Insurance Superintendency of the Dominican Republic has officially updated mandatory vehicle insurance limits through Resolution 05-2025. This change marks the first revision in over two decades since the last update in 2002.
The new regulation increases the minimum civil liability coverage required for motor vehicles, as well as the premiums drivers must pay. Coverage limits now range from RD$100,000 up to RD$2,000,000 per claim, depending on the type of vehicle involved.
Premiums have also been adjusted. They now include surcharges based on engine size and how the vehicle is used. This change aims to better reflect the current risks linked to the country’s vehicle fleet.
For example, private cars with engines up to four cylinders will see coverage increase from RD$200,000 to RD$1,000,000. Their minimum insurance premium will rise from RD$1,175 to RD$2,750. Public buses, on the other hand, will face a new minimum premium of RD$17,078, up from RD$4,052, aligned with a coverage limit of RD$2,000,000.
The resolution also introduces a detailed surcharge structure. Factors such as engine capacity, vehicle use (public or commercial), and transport of hazardous materials will affect rates. Additional premiums apply to towed vehicles. The resolution further includes penalties for insurers who do not comply with these updated limits.
The Insurance Superintendency’s goal with this reform is to modernize mandatory insurance to better match the current economic and social context. It also aims to ensure fairer compensation for accident victims and to strengthen liability coverage in technical terms.
According to estimates, these new minimum limits could cover up to 95% of claims from major accidents. This level of compensation was unattainable under the old limits that had been in place for 21 years.
Overall, the update is a significant advancement. It improves the system’s ability to handle catastrophic risks and benefits both vehicle owners and insurance providers.
