How to Change Auto Insurance When Moving Out of State in 2024 (7 Easy Steps)
Knowing how to change auto insurance when moving out of state is essential since auto insurance laws are different everywhere. Additionally, most states require you to update your driving info within 30 days of moving. Learn how to change your car insurance when you move to a new state.
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Eric Stauffer
Licensed Insurance Agent
Eric Stauffer is an insurance agent and banker-turned-consumer advocate. His priority is educating individuals and families about the different types of insurance coverage. He is passionate about helping consumers find the best coverage for their budgets and personal needs. Eric is the CEO of C Street Media, a full-service marketing firm and the co-founder of ProperCents.com, a financial educat...
Licensed Insurance Agent
UPDATED: Sep 20, 2024
It’s all about you. We want to help you make the right coverage choices.
Advertiser Disclosure: We strive to help you make confident auto insurance decisions. Comparison shopping should be easy. We are not affiliated with any one auto insurance provider and cannot guarantee quotes from any single provider. Our partnerships don’t influence our content. Our opinions are our own. To compare quotes from many different companies please enter your ZIP code on this page to use the free quote tool. The more quotes you compare, the more chances to save.
Editorial Guidelines: We are a free online resource for anyone interested in learning more about auto insurance. Our goal is to be an objective, third-party resource for everything auto insurance related. We update our site regularly, and all content is reviewed by auto insurance experts.
UPDATED: Sep 20, 2024
It’s all about you. We want to help you make the right coverage choices.
Advertiser Disclosure: We strive to help you make confident auto insurance decisions. Comparison shopping should be easy. We are not affiliated with any one auto insurance provider and cannot guarantee quotes from any single provider. Our partnerships don’t influence our content. Our opinions are our own. To compare quotes from many different companies please enter your ZIP code on this page to use the free quote tool. The more quotes you compare, the more chances to save.
On This Page
- Step #1: Contact Current Insurer – Notify your insurance provider
- Step #2: Auto Insurance Laws – Regulations for vehicle coverage
- Step #3: Compare Insurance Quotes – Evaluate different coverage options
- Step #4: Asking About Discounts – Inquire about potential savings
- Step #5: Cancel or Transfer Policy – End or Move Coverage
- Step #6: Activate New Policy – Start new insurance coverage
- Step #7: Update Credentials – Refresh personal information documents
Step #1: Contact Current Insurer
When planning a move to a new state, contact your current auto insurance provider to inform them and inquire about their process for canceling or transferring your policy. If your provider operates in the new state, they may adjust your existing policy to meet local requirements.
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Step #2: Auto Insurance Laws
No matter where you live or where you move to, you will likely be legally obligated to secure some type of auto insurance. However, minimum auto insurance requirements vary by state, so you’ll probably have to adjust your coverage when you move.
Wherever you move, auto insurance is required, but state laws differ, so you may need to update your coverage.
Auto insurance protects you and others on the road. Even though laws regarding auto insurance types and limits will vary from one state to the next, you are unlikely to escape this driving responsibility.
Step #3: Compare Insurance Quotes
When moving out of state, using online comparison tools to get quotes from different auto insurance providers is a great way to find the best coverage at the most affordable rate. Since each state has unique insurance requirements and factors like accident rates and local risks affect premiums, your old policy may no longer be the best fit.
By comparing multiple quotes, you can adjust your coverage to meet state laws, explore discounts, and ensure you get the most competitive rate. This approach helps you save money while securing the right protection for your new location.
Step #4: Asking About Discounts
When moving out of state, you do run the risk of having your premiums increase. So, it’s important to look for ways to lower rates. Now is a good time to be sure you are getting the most out of any car insurance discounts that are available to you.
Many times you do need to specifically ask for auto insurance discounts as they are not automatically applied to your account. Here are some common discounts to ask your car insurance carrier about:
- Safe Driver Discount– A discount given to drivers with a clean driving record, free of accidents or traffic violations, or to those who have completed a defensive driving course, as they pose a lower risk to insurance companies.
- Good Student Discount– A discount available to young drivers, typically under 25, who maintain a certain grade point average (often a B or higher), reflecting responsibility and lower risk to insurers.
- Veterans Discount– A special discount offered to former military personnel as a way to honor their service, typically providing reduced premiums on auto insurance policies.
- College Student Discount– A discount given to students who attend school far from home or out of state, as they may drive less frequently, reducing the insurer’s risk.
- Multi-Vehicle Discount– A discount offered to policyholders who insure two or more vehicles with the same insurance company, resulting in lower premiums for bundling coverage.
Remember, available discounts may be different in a new state. When you update your policy, check to see if new discounts are available. Whether you’re a safe driver, a student, or a veteran, it’s always worth asking your insurance provider about the discounts you may qualify for.
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Step #5: Cancel or Transfer Policy
If your current auto insurance provider operates in your new state, they can often transfer your policy, allowing for a smooth transition. Be sure to contact them in advance to adjust your coverage as needed to meet state requirements.
However, if they don’t offer coverage in your new state, you’ll need to cancel your policy and secure a new one before your move. This ensures you avoid any gaps in coverage, preventing legal or financial issues. Make sure the new policy is active by your moving date to stay protected and compliant.
Step #6: Activate New Policy
It is crucial to ensure that your new auto insurance policy begins on or before your moving date to maintain continuous coverage and avoid any potential gaps. Having a lapse in coverage, even for a short period, could result in significant legal and financial consequences.
When moving out of state, it's essential to contact your current insurer, compare quotes for your new location, and ensure your new policy is active before your move to avoid any coverage gaps.Jeff Root Licensed Insurance Agent
If you drive without insurance in your new state, you may be subject to fines, license suspension, or other legal penalties depending on local laws. Furthermore, if an accident occurs while you’re uninsured, you would be held personally responsible for any damages or medical costs, which could be financially devastating.
In addition, insurance companies might view a gap in coverage as a risk factor, which could lead to higher premiums when you do get insured again. To prevent these issues, make sure to coordinate with your current and new insurance providers to ensure your new policy is active when you need it, protecting you from both legal liabilities and the financial burden of potential accidents.
Step #7: Update Credentials
Within 30 days of moving to a new state, it’s essential to update your vehicle registration and driver’s license, as many insurance companies require proof of residency to adjust or finalize your policy. Failure to do so may lead to fines, insurance issues, or coverage gaps.
This process typically involves visiting the DMV with documents like proof of residency, insurance that meets state requirements, and ID. Some states may also require a vehicle inspection or emissions test. Updating your information ensures compliance with state laws and avoids complications with your insurance coverage.
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Other Ways to Save on Your Auto Insurance Rates
In addition to exploring discounts, there are several practical steps you can take to lower your auto insurance premiums. Here are a few key strategies to help reduce your rates and save money.
Parking in a Garage
Your auto insurance premium is based mainly on the risk the insurance company takes to insure you. If you park your car in a garage, it is less likely to be vandalized, stolen, or damaged by hail or other weather elements.
You may end up paying a lower premium than people who do not park their vehicles in a garage.
Local Commute
Not putting as many miles per year on your vehicle by working or going to school close to home can also help control your auto insurance premium, not to mention how much you pay at the pump.
New Car Based on Insurance Rates
If you are or soon will be shopping for a new vehicle, talk to your insurance company about what types of cars have lower premiums. Although moving out of state can leave you with lots of things to do in a short amount of time, it is very important to get your auto insurance switched to your new state. Not doing so can lead to serious financial and legal consequences.
One benefit of needing to do the switch is that it is a good time to use an online price comparison tool to make sure you are getting the best rate that you can. Taking these steps not only helps reduce your auto insurance premium but also ensures you have the appropriate coverage for your new state. Use this opportunity to compare rates and find the best deal for your situation.
Your Guide in Updating Auto Insurance After Moving to a New State
When moving to a new state, it’s essential to update your auto insurance to comply with local laws. Start by contacting your current insurer to see if they offer coverage in the new state or if you need to cancel your policy.
Compare quotes from different providers to find the best rate, ask about discounts, and ensure your new policy is active before your move. Additionally, update your vehicle registration and driver’s license within 30 days to avoid legal issues and maintain continuous coverage.
Explore your auto insurance options by entering your ZIP code into our free comparison tool below today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to change my auto insurance when moving out of state?
Yes, when you move out of state, it is generally necessary to change your auto insurance. Each state has its own insurance requirements and regulations, so it’s important to update your policy to comply with the laws of your new state.
When should I start the process of changing my auto insurance when moving out of state?
It’s advisable to start the process of changing your auto insurance as soon as you have a confirmed moving date. Contact your current insurance provider to inform them about your upcoming move and inquire about their process for canceling or transferring your policy.
What steps should I follow to change my auto insurance when moving out of state?
Here’s a general guide to changing your auto insurance when moving out of state:
- Research and compare insurance providers in your new state: Look for reputable insurance companies that offer coverage in your new location.
- Obtain quotes: Contact multiple insurance companies and request quotes based on your new address and any changes in coverage you may need.
- Review coverage options: Carefully compare the coverage options, limits, deductibles, and premiums offered by different insurers to find the policy that suits your needs.
- Notify your current insurance provider: Inform your current insurance company about your move and your intention to cancel or transfer your policy. They will guide you through their specific process and may require written notice or additional documentation.
- Complete the necessary paperwork: Fill out any required forms or documents to cancel or transfer your existing policy.
- Purchase new insurance: Once you have selected a new insurance provider, purchase the policy that best meets your requirements.
- Provide proof of insurance: After purchasing your new policy, provide proof of insurance to your new state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or relevant authorities to register your vehicle and comply with state laws.
What factors should I consider when choosing new auto insurance in my new state?
When selecting new auto insurance in your new state, consider the following factors:
- State insurance requirements: Ensure the policy meets the minimum liability coverage requirements of your new state.
- Coverage options: Review the available coverage options such as comprehensive, collision, uninsured/underinsured motorist, and medical payments coverage.
- Premiums and deductibles: Compare premiums and deductibles among different insurance providers to find an affordable option that fits your budget.
- Discounts and benefits: Inquire about available discounts, such as multi-policy, safe driver, or bundling discounts, to potentially lower your premiums.
- Customer service and reputation: Research the insurer’s customer service record, financial stability, and overall reputation for prompt and fair claims handling.
Will my current auto insurance company be able to transfer my policy to my new state?
In some cases, your current auto insurance company may be able to transfer your policy to your new state. However, it depends on the insurance company’s operations and the states they provide coverage in. Contact your insurer to inquire about their transfer policies and whether they can continue providing coverage in your new state.
Do I need to notify my current auto insurance company if I plan to cancel my policy?
Yes, it is essential to inform your current auto insurance company if you plan to cancel your policy due to moving out of state. Provide them with the necessary notice, typically in writing, as required by your policy terms. This allows them to process the cancellation and provide any refunds or documentation you may need.
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Enter your ZIP code below to view companies that have cheap auto insurance rates.
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Eric Stauffer
Licensed Insurance Agent
Eric Stauffer is an insurance agent and banker-turned-consumer advocate. His priority is educating individuals and families about the different types of insurance coverage. He is passionate about helping consumers find the best coverage for their budgets and personal needs. Eric is the CEO of C Street Media, a full-service marketing firm and the co-founder of ProperCents.com, a financial educat...
Licensed Insurance Agent
Editorial Guidelines: We are a free online resource for anyone interested in learning more about auto insurance. Our goal is to be an objective, third-party resource for everything auto insurance related. We update our site regularly, and all content is reviewed by auto insurance experts.