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How to Get Car Insurance in 7 Easy Steps

Updated
Christy Bieber
By: Christy Bieber
Christy Bieber
Christy Bieber
Writer

Christy Bieber is a full-time personal finance and legal writer with more than a decade of experience. She has a JD from UCLA as well as a degree in English, Media and Communications with a Certificate in Business Management from the University of Rochester. In addition to writing for Motley Fool Money and The Motley Fool, her work has also been featured regularly on MSN Money, CNBC, and USA Today. She also ghost writes textbooks, serves as a subject matter expert for online course design, and is a former college instructor.

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Our Insurance Expert

Many or all of the products here are from our partners that compensate us. It’s how we make money. But our editorial integrity ensures our experts’ opinions aren’t influenced by compensation. Terms may apply to offers listed on this page.

Determining how to get car insurance can seem like a daunting task. But while it's difficult to know how to shop for car insurance, it's an important skill. Every state requires some insurance coverage, so check out this guide to find out how to go through the process of buying an affordable policy.

7 steps to getting car insurance

1. Assess your needs

Start by determining the level of coverage you need, which can vary depending on factors like your car’s value, driving habits, and state-mandated requirements. Consider whether you need additional coverage like comprehensive or collision, which can protect against non-accident-related damage and repairs.

2. Research insurance providers

Look for reputable insurance companies by comparing their coverage options, customer service ratings, and financial strength. Our list of the top car insurance companies is a good place to start.

3. Get quotes

Get auto insurance quotes from multiple insurers to compare premiums and coverage. Ensure you provide accurate information about your vehicle, driving history, and coverage needs to get reliable estimates.

4. Choose a policy

Evaluate the quotes based on coverage limits, deductibles, and premium costs. Pick the policy that offers the best balance between affordability and comprehensive protection for your needs.

5. Submit an application

Complete the insurer’s application. You'll likely need:

  • The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) for all vehicles covered by the policy
  • The vehicle's make, model number, and safety features, such as anti-lock brakes
  • The full name, date of birth, and driver's license numbers for all motorists covered by the policy
  • Information on annual miles driven
  • Information about current auto insurance and proof of coverage
  • Proof of eligibility for discounts, such as membership in an organization like AAA or the AARP
  • Credit card or bank information to set up payments

6. Review terms and finalize

Before finalizing the purchase, review the policy carefully, paying attention to coverage limits, exclusions, and deductibles. Once satisfied, make the first premium payment to activate the policy.

7. Receive proof of insurance

After approval, the insurer will send you proof of insurance, usually in the form of a card or digital document. Keep this proof in your vehicle and provide it when registering your car or in case of an accident.

Can you get car insurance without a license?

For some, it might be necessary to decide how to get car insurance without a license. This could be an issue for drivers with a learner's permit. Or it could be necessary for people who own a car driven by someone else.

In most states, people without a license are still allowed to buy car insurance. The unlicensed buyer would be listed as a registered owner, but not a driver. Someone would need to be listed as a driver -- and many companies require that person to live in the policyholder's household.

Unfortunately, not all insurance companies allow this. Finding one that does can take time, and it may be necessary to work with an agent. That's because most companies require a license when shopping for car insurance online. Also, the policy may be more expensive since the insured person has no driving record.

Can you get car insurance without a car?

If you're wondering how to get car insurance without a car, it's possible. Drivers may be able to purchase a non-owner's policy, which may be necessary for people who drive borrowed vehicles often or who drive an employer's vehicle. Motorists who rent cars often may also find it makes sense to buy car insurance without a car.

Motley Fool Money's best car insurance companies

Check out our hand-picked list of the best car insurance companies. Our top picks are packed with valuable perks, such as low rates, bundled discounts, and best-in-class service.

Best car insurance companies

FAQs

  • Most insurers offer instant coverage. Insurers can fax over an insurance card or upload it to a mobile app immediately after the policy is purchased.

    Determining how to get car insurance instantly may be necessary for motorists purchasing new vehicles. However, it may cost more. Coverage also won't be effective until it's paid for.

  • It is not possible to buy insurance retroactively. Motorists who purchase insurance after an accident will not be covered for any damages resulting from the collision. While it's possible to buy a policy to provide future coverage, doing so may be more expensive because of the recent accident or if there was a prior lapse in coverage.

  • There are multiple ways to shop for car insurance. They include obtaining a policy online, working with an independent agent, or working with an agent employed by an insurer.

    Many drivers find purchasing coverage online is best. It's easy to compare quotes, and discounts may be available for online purchases. However, those who need extra help determining how to get car insurance may prefer to work with an agent.

    An independent agent can help compare multiple policies from different companies. That's helpful for drivers who don't know what coverage they want. Agents who work for insurers help motorists get the right coverage with a particular insurance provider.