Repair Rights by State
Your right to choose your repair shop and parts varies by state. Know your state's specific protections.
Complete repair rights guide at CollisionHelp.org →
Universal Right: Shop Choice
All 50 States Protect Shop Choice
In every state, you have the right to choose your own repair shop. Insurance cannot force you to use their "preferred" or "DRP" shops.
- Your right: Choose any licensed repair facility
- Insurance obligation: Pay reasonable repair costs
- Common violation: "Steering" you to their shops
States with Strong Anti-Steering Laws
| State | Anti-Steering Protection | Key Provision |
|---|---|---|
| California | Strong | Clear disclosure required; steering prohibited |
| Connecticut | Strong | Written notice of shop choice rights required |
| Florida | Strong | Insurer must pay shop of choice rates |
| Illinois | Strong | Anti-steering statute with penalties |
| Massachusetts | Strong | Detailed consumer protection regulations |
| New York | Strong | Regulation 64 consumer protections |
| Rhode Island | Strong | Comprehensive anti-steering law |
| Texas | Moderate | Must inform of shop choice rights |
| Washington | Strong | Clear anti-steering regulations |
OEM Parts Disclosure Requirements
States Requiring Parts Disclosure
These states require insurers to disclose when non-OEM parts are used:
| Requirement Level | States |
|---|---|
| Written Disclosure Required | AR, CA, CO, CT, FL, GA, HI, IL, IN, IA, KS, KY, LA, ME, MD, MA, MI, MN, MS, MO, MT, NE, NV, NH, NJ, NM, NY, NC, ND, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VT, VA, WA, WV, WI, WY |
| OEM Required for New Cars | RI (under 30 months), CT (under 30 months) |
| Consumer Choice Protected | Most states—you can pay difference for OEM |
Top 10 States Repair Rights Detail
California
- Shop Choice: Absolute right to choose
- Anti-Steering: Prohibited; disclosure required
- Parts: Written disclosure for non-OEM required
- Labor Rates: Must pay "reasonable" market rates
- Warranty: Shop warranty required on repairs
Texas
- Shop Choice: Protected by law
- Anti-Steering: Must inform of rights
- Parts: Disclosure required for aftermarket
- Labor Rates: Reasonable rate disputes common
- TDI Complaints: File with Texas Dept. of Insurance
Florida
- Shop Choice: Strong protection
- Anti-Steering: Violations can be reported
- Parts: Aftermarket disclosure required
- Assignment of Benefits: Recent reforms affect claims
- Supplements: Shop can negotiate directly
New York
- Shop Choice: Regulation 64 protects choice
- Anti-Steering: Strong prohibitions
- Parts: Written notice for non-OEM required
- Labor Rates: Higher urban rates recognized
- Consumer Complaints: DFS enforcement
Parts Certification Standards by State
| Standard | Description | States Recognizing |
|---|---|---|
| CAPA Certified | Certified Automotive Parts Association | Most states accept for aftermarket |
| NSF Certified | National Sanitation Foundation | Growing acceptance |
| OEM Only | Original Equipment Manufacturer | RI, CT require for newer vehicles |
| Like Kind & Quality (LKQ) | Used/recycled parts | Allowed in most states with disclosure |
Labor Rate Disputes by Region
Average Labor Rates Vary Widely
| Region | Average Rate Range | Key States |
|---|---|---|
| Northeast | $55-85/hour | NY, NJ, MA, CT |
| Southeast | $45-65/hour | FL, GA, NC, SC |
| Midwest | $45-60/hour | IL, OH, MI, IN |
| Southwest | $50-70/hour | TX, AZ, NM |
| West Coast | $60-90/hour | CA, WA, OR |
Insurance often pays below market rates. Know your area's prevailing rates.
State Complaint Resources
Report Steering Violations
If an insurer steers you to their shop or refuses reasonable rates:
- Document the conversation (date, time, what was said)
- Request the steering directive in writing
- File complaint with your state insurance department
- Contact your state Attorney General consumer protection
Find Your State's Repair Rights
Every state has different protections and requirements.
Browse All 50 States