Car Insurance California

No, you need both auto insurance and registration to drive in California.

Yes, you can get car insurance without a license in California, but it might be a bit more complicated. If you don’t have a license, you may still need insurance if you own a car or want to insure a vehicle for someone else to drive. Insurance companies typically require a licensed driver to be listed on the policy, so you could name someone else as the primary driver, like a family member or someone you trust. However, not all insurance companies offer policies to unlicensed drivers, so you may need to shop around to find one that does.

In California, you have up to 30 days to insure a used car after purchase. If you currently have auto insurance, you have up to 45 days to either add your new vehicle to the existing policy or cancel it and obtain a new policy for the car.

In California, car insurance typically follows the vehicle. This means that if someone else is driving your car and gets into an accident, your insurance would be the primary coverage.

No, if you’re a California resident, you must have car insurance from a company licensed to operate in California. Out-of-state car insurance policies don't meet the state’s legal requirements. If you’re moving to California, you'll need to switch to a California-based insurance policy to comply with the law.

California requires minimum liability coverage, but it’s generally recommended to carry higher limits for better protection. Contact a local California insurance agent today to see what type of coverage you need for your vehicle.

The state recently increased California's minimum liability coverage limits. Starting January 1, 2025, drivers will be required to carry at least $30,000 for injury or death to one person, $60,000 for injury or death to more than one person, and $15,000 for property damage.

Several factors influence car insurance rates in California, including your driving record, age, and location. Insurers also consider the type of car you drive, your annual mileage, and your claims history. The coverage options and deductibles you choose also play a role in the final premium.

There are several valuable resources for California drivers, including:

• California Department of Motor Vehicles
• California Department of Insurance
• California Department of Transportation
• California Highway Patrol
• California Office of Traffic Safety