Does Car Insurance Change By State?

Yes, car insurance varies by state. Most states require a minimum amount of liability insurance and may even require other specific types of coverages be on your policy. If you plan on moving to a new state, you'll need to make sure your new policy is written with the coverages and limits that you need.

We get it. Getting ready for a big move to another state is exciting — and stressful. On top of all the packing, renting a truck and other moving musts, you’ve got your car insurance to think about. We’re here to help! We’ve highlighted how to navigate the process of registering your car and obtaining a new car insurance policy in another state, so you can make your move with one less item on your to-do list.

How Long Do You Have to Switch Car Insurance When You Move?

It’s important to verify your exact timeline with your current insurance provider. However, you'll typically have 30 to 90 days to switch your car insurance when you move to a new state. While you can — and should — plan ahead, you don't want to cancel your current policy until the move is made. Watch this video and follow these steps to prepare for switching car insurance to another state.

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Getting ready for a big move to another state can be exciting and stressful.

On top of all the packing and other moving tasks, you've got your car insurance to think about.

Luckily, your friends at American Family Insurance are here to help you navigate the process of obtaining a new car insurance policy in another state, so you can make your move with one less item on your to-do list.

Wondering if you can keep your current policy?

That depends on your current insurance company.

Different insurance companies may cover different states.

So the first thing you'll want to do is find out if your current insurance company operates in your new state.

Check with your insurance agent before you move to see if your current provider can cover you in your new state.

If so, you can take your car insurance with you, but you might need to update your policy to meet your new state's requirements.

That's because car insurance requirements vary by state.

Most states require a minimum amount of liability insurance and some might even require other specific types of coverages.

Work with your agent to make sure your new policy is written with the coverages and limits that you need.

These changes might cause your premium to change.

Your agent can help you find the best discounts to maximize your savings.

Typically, you'll have 30 to 90 days to switch your car insurance after you move to a new state, but you'll want to verify your exact timeline with your current provider.

While you should plan ahead, do not cancel your current policy until your move is complete and you have a new policy in place.

Before the move, make sure all your important documents are readily available so you're not searching through boxes later.

Next, you'll want to shop around.

Getting quotes from multiple insurance companies can help make sure you're getting the best deal.

Be sure to check out American Family Insurance.

You can get a personalized quote in minutes online.

Once you've decided on the right auto insurance go ahead and purchase it.

Next, you'll want to cancel your old insurance.

Work with your agent to ensure the end date of your old policy aligns with the effective date of your new policy.

One last tip.

Remember that you'll also need to update your car registration and apply for a new driver's license once you're fully moved into your new home.

If you aren't sure how quickly this should be done call your DMV or local law enforcement to ask about their grace period.

As you're prepping for your big move, remember, your local American Family agent would be happy to answer all your insurance questions.

They can help you get the right policy with the right savings for your unique needs.

Contact your agent today.

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Gather your documents

Make sure all your important documents are readily available, so you’re not searching through boxes later. Use a portable safe or another form of secure storage to transport them.

Call your insurance agent

Let them know you’re moving to a new state and ask about your coverage options in your new home.

Get a quote

If your current insurance isn’t traveling with you, you’ll need to start shopping for a new policy that works in your new state.

Do I Have to Change My Car Registration If I Move to Another State?

When you move to another state, your car registration needs to match the location of your new home. There are a few ways to change your vehicle registration from one state to another.

Visit the DMV

Go to your new state’s online or in-person DMV to find registration prices and forms. Once you fill out the paperwork and provide payment, your registration will be complete.

Get a new driver’s license

You’ll also need to apply for a new driver’s license when you finish your move. Call your new DMV or local law enforcement to ask about their grace period.

Hang onto your registration

Keep a copy in your vehicle and make sure your license plate is swapped for the new one you receive in the mail.

Can I Keep My Car Insurance If I Move to Another State?

Car insurance providers often operate in multiple states throughout the U.S. Check with your insurance agent before you make the move to see if your current insurance company will provide coverage in your new home state. If they will, you can take it with you. Be sure to ask your agent if any changes will be made to your coverage — some states have different insurance requirements than others, some of which may cause your premiums to rise.

If your current insurance company doesn’t provide insurance in the state you’re moving to, you’ll need to purchase new coverage when your move is complete.

Hang on to your current insurance

Don’t cancel your current auto insurance policy until you have a new one ready to go.

Compare quotes

Make sure you’re getting the best deal by shopping multiple insurance companies’ options.

Purchase your new insurance

Once you’ve decided on the right auto insurance, go ahead and purchase it.

Immediately call your old insurance

Cancel your old car insurance coverage and ensure that its end date aligns with the effective date of your new policy.

Moving to a new state? Connect with your American Family Insurance agent to make sure your car insurance coverage complies with your new state’s requirements and that you have the right insurance to protect what matters most while out on the road.

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Related Topics: Insurance Needs , Car Insurance