Does a car need insurance to be transferred?

Asked by: Candace Cormier  |  Last update: August 10, 2025
Score: 4.4/5 (23 votes)

Although the state may not require proof of auto insurance to change a car title in a private sale, dealerships and lenders typically do need proof of insurance before transferring vehicle ownership. Not having insurance could lead to problems with the sale and even a fine from the state.

What is needed to transfer a title in Indiana?

Required Documentation

Indiana BMV Title Application: This form is necessary for recording the transfer at the Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV). Bill of Sale: Provides proof of the transaction and specifies the sale price. Identification: Valid state-issued ID or driver's license verifies identity.

Do I need to change car insurance when I move?

Car insurance providers often operate in multiple states throughout the U.S. Your current one may provide coverage in your new home state. Check with your insurance agent before you make the move. If your current insurance company doesn't, you'll need to purchase new coverage when your move is complete.

Do you need insurance to transport a car?

No. It is recommended but not required. Your vehicle will be insured by the carrier's cargo and liability policies as well as Montway's “Contingent Cargo Insurance” which protects you for up to $250,000 should the motor carrier and/or their insurance provider fail to fully cover a valid claim.

Do both owners of a car need insurance?

If you and another person share vehicle ownership, the name on the vehicle's registration can differ from the insurance policy. However, both drivers should have sufficient coverage on the vehicle. One owner may purchase the policy and then list the other owner as a covered driver.

Should you add a second driver to your insurance policy?

27 related questions found

Can my son drive my car if he is not insured?

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.

Can my wife drive my car if she's not on my insurance?

A driver who lives in your household and isn't listed on your auto policy may be denied coverage if they borrow your vehicle and are involved in an accident. Family members who live in your household and drive your vehicle, including a teenager or your significant other, should be listed as drivers on your policy.

Do I need to insure a car that isn't being driven?

Do you need insurance for a car in storage? Legally, you don't need insurance coverage for a car that's not being driven and is in storage. However, if the vehicle gets stolen, vandalized, or damaged in an accident or weather-related event, you'll be responsible for any resulting expenses if you don't carry insurance.

Do you need insurance to haul a car?

Nearly every state requires auto haulers to carry the following types of insurance: Primary liability: Vehicle liability insurance includes two coverages, bodily injury and property damage.

Do you have to have insurance on a car to transfer it?

Although the state may not require proof of auto insurance to change a car title in a private sale, dealerships and lenders typically do need proof of insurance before transferring vehicle ownership. Not having insurance could lead to problems with the sale and even a fine from the state.

What happens if I don't tell my car insurance that I moved?

Why Does It Matter If I Forget To Tell My Auto Insurance Company That I Moved? The short answer: Because they can refuse to cover you if you are in a car wreck and failed to change your address.

Can I stay on my parents' car insurance?

There is no age limit that prevents you from staying on your parents' car insurance policy as a listed driver, as long as you live at home or if you're a full-time college student. That means you're still covered when you drive your parents' vehicles.

How much does it cost to transfer a car title in Indiana?

$15 title application fee. $30 additional administrative penalty will be assessed on a title application packet received 45 days after the purchase date. $25 speed title fee. This optional fee is in addition to the $15 title application fee.

What happens when someone gives you a car?

Submit the bill of sale as proof of ownership and pay the fees associated with the title transfer. You may also need to provide proof of insurance and a passing emissions inspection report. Once the title transfer is complete, the car is yours and your responsibility.

Can I drive a car I just bought without plates in Indiana?

No, you cannot drive a car without a license plate in Indiana. Indiana law requires that all vehicles on public roads and highways be registered and display a license plate or temporary registration permit. When you purchase a vehicle in Indiana, you have 31 days to register it and obtain license plates.

Will they tow my car if I don't have insurance?

Can the police tow your car for not having insurance? Yes, if you get pulled over, and the police officer discovers you have no car insurance, they'll usually do one or more of the following—let you off with a warning, issue you a citation, or have your vehicle impounded for lack of insurance.

What is haul insurance?

Heavy haul insurance protects your equipment and drivers against damages, loss, and accidents from improper handling or theft. This insurance type is designed for overweight and oversized load transport. Insuring your equipment ensures that your oversized load shipment is protected from potential risks and liabilities.

Do I need insurance for movers?

Your homeowners policy may not cover damages to your property by professional movers, making moving insurance a viable option. A full-value policy covers the total value of your damaged or broken items and often costs 1% to 2% of the estimated value of your belongings.

Can you have an uninsured car in your driveway?

So as long as the vehicle is not operated on public roads and only on private property. It doesn't need to be insured. But keep in mind. If your driving on private property and you hit someone or something.

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.

Can you pause car insurance if not driving?

You may be able to pause your auto insurance if you're not going to drive your car for a certain period of time. However, you may be unable to temporarily give up all of your coverage, depending on your state's laws, your insurer's rules and your auto lender's requirements.

What happens if you don't add a driver to your insurance?

If someone in your household, who is unknown to your insurance company, gets in an accident, your insurer might rescind or cancel your policy and/or deny your insurance claim because they've been kept in the dark.

What happens if someone borrows your car and gets in an accident?

Vehicle Owners Are Liable Under California Law

This law holds a vehicle's owner responsible for collisions caused by the driver of the vehicle – even if the driver is not the owner. Liability is determined by identifying the actual owner of the vehicle.

Does it matter whose name is on the car?

Yes, the name on a car title can impact insurance coverage. Insurance companies usually require the policyholder to have an insurable interest in the vehicle, meaning they either own the car or have a significant financial interest in it.

Can my daughter drive my car if she doesn't live with me?

If your child doesn't live with you, she needs to have her own car insurance policy -- even if she's a co-owner of your vehicle.