Can you get temporary car insurance on a car that's already insured?

Asked by: Shannon Leannon  |  Last update: November 12, 2025
Score: 4.2/5 (31 votes)

Not exactly. Insurance companies don't sell standalone temporary car insurance policies. However, you may be able to get short-term car insurance by buying a standard policy and canceling early, getting non-owner car insurance, relying on rental car insurance or being added as a driver on someone else's policy.

Can I get car insurance if I already have insurance?

Can you have two car insurance policies on two different cars? If you have more than one car, it's possible to insure both under two separate policies.

Can you put a temporary hold on car insurance?

Depending on your state's rules and insurer, you may be able to pause your car insurance if you won't be driving for an extended period. If putting a pause on your car insurance isn't possible, you can reduce your coverages or cancel your policy for the time you don't need it.

Why is temporary car insurance a good idea?

If you often borrow or rent cars for short periods, you might want to get your own non-owner car insurance. This is a good idea if you'll be driving other cars with little or no insurance coverage from the owners.

Do car dealerships give you temporary insurance?

Dealership insurance programs offer a convenient way to secure immediate coverage for your new vehicle. These programs are often designed to provide temporary insurance that aligns with the duration of your dealership's warranty or until you arrange for long-term coverage with an insurance provider.

Cheapest Temporary Car Insurance for Convicted Drivers?

19 related questions found

What type of insurance is temporary?

Temporary life insurance is a short-term policy you can purchase from an insurer while waiting for them to finish underwriting and finalizing a review of your policy application. If you pass away during the application, generally your assigned beneficiaries should receive the temporary policy's death benefit.

Does car insurance start immediately?

Getting car insurance instantly is possible with many auto insurance companies, including Progressive. In some states, you only need your driver's license number, vehicle identification number (VIN), and at least the first month's payment to activate an auto insurance policy.

What is temporary insurance called?

Short-term health insurance (STLDI) is a temporary health plan designed to provide limited coverage during transitional periods, such as between jobs or waiting for ACA-compliant insurance. These plans are not ACA-compliant, typically last one to four months, and offer quick enrollment with minimal underwriting.

What is the shortest time you can insure a car?

The periods of cover for Temporary Car Insurance can vary a lot - between 1 hour to 3 months. The most commonly purchased length of cover for Temporary Car Insurance is 1 Day, and it is a lot less common for customers to purchase longer temporary insurance terms such as 3 months.

Can you get temporary car insurance without a license?

It's possible to get car insurance with no license, and if someone other than you will be driving your vehicle, it's necessary. But some companies may be wary of insuring customers without a license, while some states require you to list at least one licensed driver on the policy.

Can I register a car with temporary insurance?

Yes, you typically need proof of insurance to register a car. The DMV will require you to show you have at least the minimum required coverage.

What insurance is considered temporary coverage?

STLDI is a type of health insurance coverage that is primarily designed to fill temporary gaps in coverage when an individual is transitioning from one plan or coverage to another, such as transitioning between health coverage offered by one employer to health coverage offered by another employer.

How long can you pause car insurance if not driving?

Typically, a motorist pauses their coverage because they won't be driving their car for a certain period, such as 30 days or more. Being able to pause your car insurance depends on your insurer, your state and your lender (if you're financing your car). Your insurer may not allow you to pause your auto insurance.

Are you allowed to have 2 car insurances?

While having two auto insurance policies on the same vehicle is technically possible, it's generally not recommended. Car insurance policies are designed to provide primary coverage for specific vehicles, and having duplicate coverage can lead to complications and potential conflicts in the event of a claim.

Can you use insurance right after getting it?

Yes, you can buy health insurance and use it immediately, especially if you choose a short-term plan or if your enrollment is due to a qualifying life event that allows you to use ACA coverage right away.

Can I put my daughter's car on my insurance?

You can typically add someone else's car to your policy if you also share the same car insurance policy, which typically also requires living together.

How long can your car be without insurance?

It is a crime to drive almost anywhere without car insurance coverage, even for a minute or just down the street. So, how long can you be without car insurance? If you're driving, you can't. Anytime you get behind the wheel as a licensed driver, you need insurance coverage or you'll risk incurring major consequences.

How to get car insurance when no one will insure you?

If you're denied insurance, the first step is to call another insurer—different companies have different parameters. However, if several insurers have denied you, you may need to consider these options: Join a state assigned risk pool – Auto insurers participate on a voluntary basis in state assigned risk pools.

How long can you go between car insurance?

Although it varies by provider and state, most auto insurance companies offer a grace period of three to 30 days. During this time, you won't risk losing your insurance because you can't afford to pay. However, if you're leasing a brand-new car, you'll need proof of valid insurance before driving it home.

How to apply for temporary insurance?

Temporary auto insurance doesn't exist from major insurers, but there are options if you'll only be driving temporarily. If you own your vehicle, you can buy a six-month policy, cancel when you're done driving, and avoid paying for months you don't drive.

Can you do temporary insurance?

Yes, you can get temporary car insurance on a friend or family member's car. It means they won't have to pay to add you as a named driver to their policy.

What type of insurance coverage begins immediately?

If you need immediate health insurance coverage, short-term plans can typically start as soon as the day after you apply. You can also choose your start date for a short-term plan.

Does State Farm offer same day car insurance?

Lots of larger, affordable companies, like State Farm, American Family and Geico offer same-day insurance. On the other hand, smaller insurance companies are more likely to ask you to call one of their agents or go into an office to secure a policy. Can you buy insurance online immediately?

Does Geico car insurance start right away?

With GEICO, you can typically get car insurance coverage in a matter of minutes.

Can you get auto insurance instantly?

Yes! Many insurance companies offer the option to buy car insurance online instantly, where you can get a quote, pay, and print proof of insurance in minutes. Before searching for car insurance quotes, it's important to understand the process of buying same-day car insurance online. Gather all necessary information.