California Low Cost Auto Insurance (CLCA): who qualifies and what it covers
A-MAX Editorial Team
Reviewed by Rajesh Sankaran, Licensed Insurance Agent
Short answer
California's Low Cost Auto Insurance Program (CLCA) is a state program that offers liability-only car insurance to income-eligible drivers. To qualify you need a valid California driver's license, a car worth $25,000 or less, a good driving record and household income under the program limit. Prices vary by county.
If you only do four things
CLCA is a California state program for income-eligible drivers.
It covers liability only: $10,000/$20,000 bodily injury and $3,000 property damage.
Your car must be worth $25,000 or less, and you need a good driving record.
If you do not qualify or want more coverage, a regular policy may be the better fit.
California's Low Cost Auto Insurance Program, known as CLCA, helps income-eligible drivers buy the basic liability insurance they need to drive legally. It is run by the state, and you apply through the program, not through a regular insurance company. This guide covers who qualifies, what the policy covers and what it does not.
Who qualifies for CLCA?
According to the program, you must:
- Have a valid California driver's license (an AB 60 license is accepted)
- Own a car worth $25,000 or less
- Be at least 16 years old (applicants under 18 must be legally emancipated)
- Have a good driving record
- Meet the household income limit
All vehicles registered in your name, up to two, must be enrolled in the program. Motorcycles and commercial vehicles are not eligible.
What are the CLCA income limits?
A household is everyone listed on your federal or state tax return. The program lists these limits; check mylowcostauto.com for the current numbers before you apply.
| People in household | Maximum household income |
|---|---|
| 1 | $39,900 |
| 2 | $54,100 |
| 3 | $68,300 |
| 4 | $82,500 |
| 5 | $96,700 |
You will need to prove your income, for example with a tax return, pay stub, CalFresh EBT card or Medi-Cal card.
What does a CLCA policy cover?
CLCA is liability-only coverage that meets California financial responsibility law:
- $10,000 bodily injury or death per person
- $20,000 bodily injury or death per accident
- $3,000 property damage per accident
For an added yearly charge, you can add medical payments coverage and uninsured motorist bodily injury coverage. CLCA does not offer comprehensive or collision, so it will not pay to repair your own car.
How much does CLCA cost?
Yearly premiums vary by county. The program lists a range of about $199 to $986 a year, with discounts for drivers licensed at least three years with a good record. You can pay in full or pay 20% down and the rest in installments.
How do I apply?
Apply online at mylowcostauto.com or call the program at 1-866-602-8861. You start with a short eligibility questionnaire.
What if CLCA isn't the right fit?
CLCA limits are low, and the program does not cover your own car. If you do not qualify, have more than two cars, or want more protection, a regular policy may work better. A-MAX shops multiple carriers in California to find your options, including drivers with a ticket, an SR-22 or a gap in coverage. Compare the California minimum requirements, then get a quote, call 1-800-921-AMAX or visit an office. Se habla español.
About this page
Written by the A-MAX Editorial Team. Reviewed by Rajesh Sankaran, Licensed Insurance Agent. We review and update it as state rules and carrier availability change.
Last updated November 9, 2026
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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Drivers with a valid California license, a car worth $25,000 or less, a good driving record and household income under the program limit. Applicants must be at least 16, and under 18 only if legally emancipated.
Yes. The program accepts an AB 60 California driver’s license.
No. CLCA is liability-only coverage. It does not include comprehensive or collision coverage.
$10,000 bodily injury per person, $20,000 bodily injury per accident and $3,000 property damage per accident. Medical payments and uninsured motorist coverage can be added for an extra charge.
You can still get a regular policy. A-MAX shops multiple carriers in California to find your options, even if you have a ticket, an SR-22 or a gap in coverage.
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