Is auto insurance required to drive a vehicle on public roads in the US?

Every US state except New Hampshire requires drivers to maintain auto liability insurance or equivalent financial responsibility (a cash bond or self-insurance for those with substantial assets). New Hampshire requires drivers to be able to demonstrate financial responsibility if they cause a crash, which most achieve by carrying insurance even though not strictly required. Minimum liability coverage varies by state — typical minimums are $25,000/$50,000/$25,000 (bodily injury per person/bodily injury per accident/property damage), though some states require higher and many drivers carry more. Driving without insurance is a serious offense: large fines, license suspension, and potentially being personally liable for all crash damages.