Can I be on my parents' insurance and live in a different state?


Editorial team Published on

Yes, you can stay on your parents' health insurance plan if you live in a different state, as long as you are under age 26.

Health Insurance Rules

  • Age limit: Under the Affordable Care Act, you can remain on your parents' policy until you turn 26, regardless of your address, student status, or financial independence.
  • Network limitations: While you are legally allowed on the plan, your care may be limited. Most plans use local or regional networks. If you live out of state, routine doctor visits might be considered out-of-network and cost much more.
  • Emergency care: True emergencies are covered anywhere in the U.S. under federal law.
  • Plan types: If your parents have a PPO (Preferred Provider Organization) plan, you might have nationwide in-network doctor options. If they have an HMO (Health Maintenance Organization) plan, routine care outside their home state may not be covered at all.

Car Insurance Rules

  • Primary residence: Car insurance rules are different. Insurers generally require a vehicle to be registered and insured in the state where it is primarily parked and driven.
  • Away at school: If you are temporarily away at college but maintain a permanent address at your parents' home, you can usually stay on their auto policy.
  • Permanent move: If you permanently move to another state and take your car with you, you usually need your own auto insurance policy in that new state.