Does your car need to be registered to get auto insurance?

Can you register a car without insurance?

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While a majority of the states require you to submit proof of insurance before you can register your car, there are a few states that don’t need any evidence. The following states don’t require insurance to register your car: 

• New Hampshire
• Washington
• Mississippi
• Virginia
• Tennessee
• Arizona
• Wisconsin
• North Dakota

It’s important to note that while these states don’t require proof of insurance while registering your vehicle, it’s mandatory to eventually get your insurance. 

For average car rates based on state, check out the chart below.

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Based on the chart’s data, Michigan has some of the highest rates in the country.

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When should you register a car?

 Regardless of the reason, it’s always recommended to register your car as soon as possible. If you have valid insurance for your car but it isn’t registered, you’re not legally permitted to drive it. If you’re wondering how to register your car, it’s fairly easy. All you need to do is go to your local DMV and submit relevant documents.

It’s important to note that the registration of your car will expire every few years, and you need to renew it as and when required. The requirement differs based on the state, wherein some may require annual renewals while others may need it once every 5 or 10 years. That being said, in most cases, newer models often need fewer renewals, whereas older vehicles may require renewals more frequently. Moreover, when it comes to how much to register a car, it’s important to note that first-time owners will have to pay a higher sum.

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Many states now allow you to renew your registration online, so you don’t have to go to the DMV to do it. You may even be able to sign up for automatic renewal notifications.

Where can you register a car without insurance?

While a majority of the states require you to submit proof of insurance before you can register your car, there are a few states that don’t need any evidence. The following states don’t require insurance to register your car: 

• New Hampshire
• Washington
• Mississippi
• Virginia
• Tennessee
• Arizona
• Wisconsin
• North Dakota

It’s important to note that while these states don’t require proof of insurance while registering your vehicle, it’s mandatory to eventually get your insurance. This is because in most of these states, except New Hampshire, driving without insurance is illegal. 

How to Get Proof of Insurance

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Proof of insurance is a document that verifies you carry a current, legitimate vehicle insurance policy that fulfills your state’s minimum necessary coverages.

All states except New Hampshire need automobile insurance before drivers may lawfully drive on public highways. This regulation helps drivers pay for property damage and personal harm following an accident.

If you’re pulled over by local law enforcement, they may ask for your proof of insurance. When applying for a new insurance policy or renewing an expired policy, you may also be required to provide proof of prior insurance.

Insurance providers often send evidence of insurance shortly after your initial premium payment. They may send it through the mail, fax, or as an electronic insurance card.

Many insurance carriers enable you to view your insurance ID via a mobile app. They can also send you a digital copy of your card, which you may view on your smartphone. Those are helpful methods that protect you from losing your insurance ID.

If you do lose your insurance card, most insurers enable you to access your account online. By going to their website, you may download and print out a new insurance ID. Additionally, you may call your agent and ask them to send you a replacement card in the mail.

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What happens if insurance lapses after car registration?

Don’t drive if your insurance has expired after you’ve registered your vehicle. It is illegal to drive without insurance, and the consequences may be severe. Without insurance, you run the risk of facing severe penalties and perhaps even prison time, similar to using an unregistered vehicle.

If your insurance lapses, call your existing provider and ask them if they’re willing to reinstate your coverage. However, if your insurance is canceled, you could also consider shopping around for a new policy that might give you better benefits while insuring a car.

You should keep in mind that if you let your insurance coverage expire, you’ll likely have to pay a higher premium going forward.

The Bottom Line on Registering Your Car to Get Auto Insurance

Does your car need to be registered to get auto insurance? In the majority of circumstances, the answer is “no.” When deciding whether to first get insurance or focus on registering a car, the answer is usually insurance. This is because in most of the states, except New Hampshire, driving without insurance is illegal. You will be able to avoid any expenses or legal troubles in the future as a result of this.

To get the best auto insurance coverage at affordable rates, get as many online quotes as you can and make comparisons. Enter your ZIP code to find the best auto insurance quotes for the coverage you need before you register your car.