Car, Home & Business Insurance in Chantilly, Virginia

Yes. Since July 1, 2024, Virginia no longer lets drivers pay the $500 uninsured motor vehicle fee instead of buying insurance. Every vehicle registered in Virginia must be covered by a policy that meets the state's minimum liability limits, and the DMV can ask for proof of insurance at any time.

For policies issued or renewed on or after January 1, 2025, Virginia requires at least $50,000 bodily injury liability per person, $100,000 per accident, and $25,000 property damage liability (50/100/25). You must also carry uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage at the same limits. Minimum limits are rarely enough after a serious accident, so most drivers are better protected with higher limits.

Driving an uninsured vehicle in Virginia can lead to suspension of your driver's license, registration and license plates, a $600 noncompliance fee, and a requirement to file proof of insurance (SR-22) with the DMV before your privileges are restored. You would also be personally responsible for any damage or injuries you cause.

Yes, a Virginia auto policy covers you when you drive in Maryland and other states. If you move to Maryland, however, you must title and register your vehicle there within 60 days of becoming a resident and switch to a policy that meets Maryland's requirements, including $30,000/$60,000/$15,000 liability, matching uninsured motorist coverage and $2,500 of personal injury protection (PIP). Fortis Insurance serves both Virginia and Maryland, so we can handle the switch for you.

An FR-44 is not a separate type of insurance - it is a certificate your insurance company files with the Virginia DMV to prove you carry higher-than-standard liability limits. It is typically required after a DUI or certain other serious convictions and must usually be kept for three years. Not every carrier files FR-44 or SR-22 forms, so working with an independent agent makes it easier to find an affordable option.

No Virginia law requires homeowners insurance, but almost every mortgage lender does. A standard policy covers your dwelling, other structures, personal belongings, personal liability and additional living expenses if you can't live in your home after a covered loss. Flood damage is excluded, so many Virginia homeowners add a separate flood insurance policy.

Your premium depends mainly on the cost to rebuild your home, its location, the age of the roof and systems, your claims history and the deductible you choose. Because each carrier weighs these factors differently, prices for the same home can vary widely. Comparing several carriers - and bundling home and auto - is usually the fastest way to lower your rate.

A captive agent or insurance website can only offer one company's products. As an independent agency, Fortis Insurance compares quotes from 100+ carriers, explains the differences in coverage and price, and stays with you for renewals, policy changes and claims questions - at no extra cost to you.