Do I need insurance before going to dealership?

Asked by: Prof. Cindy Larkin  |  Last update: April 24, 2025
Score: 4.9/5 (5 votes)

Technically, you can buy a vehicle without insurance. However, whether you're buying a new or used car, you need auto insurance to drive it home — specifically, a policy that meets your state's minimum amount of liability insurance. Most car dealerships won't allow you to leave with the car unless it's insured first.

Do you have to insure a car before you leave the dealership?

In nearly every state, you'll need to provide proof of insurance before taking a used vehicle home from the dealership. If you don't have insurance when you purchase your used car, you won't be able to drive it off the lot until you have a policy.

Do you get car insurance before or after you get a car?

It is necessary to have the general auto insurance before buying the first car. If you are replacing the car, you will inform your insurer in that particular case. It will help them decide whether your current coverage will extend or they will change it.

Why do dealers need proof of insurance?

They want to protect their investment from the get-go. Dealer's Own Policy: Many dealers also have policies requiring proof of insurance. They want to avoid any potential liabilities or issues that might arise if someone drives off without insurance and then gets into an accident.

Can I finance a car without insurance?

Nope. The lender will require you to have full coverage on a financed vehicle. Also, driving without insurance is illegal.

Do I Need Insurance Before I Buy a Used Car? Do You Need Insurance Before Buying a Used Car?

45 related questions found

Do I need auto insurance if I dont have a car?

If you drive but don't own a car, non-owner car insurance can help you meet your state's minimum insurance requirements to drive legally. It can also protect you from financial losses if you cause an accident while driving.

What credit score is needed to buy a car?

According to Car and Driver, “Most used auto loans go to borrowers with minimum credit scores of at least 675. For new auto loans, most borrowers have scores of around 730. The minimum credit score needed for a new car may be around 600, but those with excellent credit often get lower rates and lower monthly payments.”

Do I need to have insurance before buying a used car?

Technically, you can buy a vehicle without insurance. However, whether you're buying a new or used car, you need auto insurance to drive it home — specifically, a policy that meets your state's minimum amount of liability insurance. Most car dealerships won't allow you to leave with the car unless it's insured first.

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 the first step in getting car insurance?

1. Gather driver and vehicle information. To get a quote from a car insurance company, you need to provide the following information about the driver(s) and vehicle(s) that you want on the policy: Driver name and date of birth.

Do dealerships give 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.

Do I need full coverage insurance for buy here pay here?

Comprehensive and collision are usually purchased in combination. Both types of coverage are required when purchasing a buy here pay here vehicle until it is fully paid off. The downside is that this insurance premium can be expensive, especially if your driving record isn't squeaky-clean.

Does car insurance activate straight away?

Car insurance companies will usually let you start your policy immediately on the same day you buy it, and most drivers are approved immediately. Lots of larger, affordable companies, like State Farm, American Family and Geico offer same-day insurance.

Is one day car insurance legit?

You may find lesser-known insurers advertising one-day or weekly car insurance, but be wary, as they could be a scam or provide insufficient coverage. In contrast, major auto insurance companies typically sell six-month or yearly policies.

Can you start using insurance right away?

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.

Do you need insurance the day you buy a car?

Confirm your car insurance policy before buying a new car

In most states you need insurance to legally drive on the road. That means you'll need to be insured before you can legally drive your new vehicle off the lot. Some dealerships may require it, too.

What credit score do you need to buy a $30000 car?

There is no minimum credit score required to buy a car, but most lenders have minimum requirements for financing. Most borrowers need a FICO score of at least 600 to get a competitive rate on an auto loan.

What is the first step in purchasing a car?

Take time before heading online or to a dealership to understand the key steps to buying your first car.
  • Determine how much you can afford. ...
  • Save for a down payment. ...
  • Take a look at your credit history. ...
  • Decide what car is right for you. ...
  • Prequalify for financing. ...
  • Head to the dealership — in person or online. ...
  • Negotiate.

Is a 900 credit score possible?

What is the highest credit score possible? To start off: No, it's not possible to have a 900 credit score in the United States. In some countries that use other models, like Canada, people could have a score of 900. The current scoring models in the U.S. have a maximum of 850.

Can I get auto insurance before buying a car?

You can get a car insurance policy before you buy a car, as long as you know the make and model of your future vehicle. If you already have a car insurance policy, it can be updated to cover your new car. Keep in mind, your rates will probably change.

How long can you go without car 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.

Do I need insurance to drive my parents' car?

Most insurers cover someone else driving the policyholder's car with their permission once in a while. But, if you're going to start driving one of your parent's cars regularly, you'll need to be added or named on their auto insurance. You can't legally drive your parents' car without any insurance at all, either.

Does State Farm do same day insurance?

What companies sell same-day car insurance? Most car insurance companies offer same-day car insurance, including major insurers like State Farm and Geico. USAA and State Farm offer cheap full-coverage policies at average annual rates of $1,207 and $1,505 a year respectively.

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.

How long does car insurance take to apply?

After you find a plan you like, you'll need to submit an application and payment to get the new auto insurance. This process can take a few minutes or days, depending on if you're working with an agent or buying your plan online.