Can your car be insured in a different state than its registration? [2024]
Can your car be registered in one state and insured in another? Typically, no. We'll go over the few exceptions, including for temporary work assignments, multi-state residents, out-of-state college students, and active-duty military. We'll also cover multi-state car insurance and out-of-state car insurance.
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Tonya Sisler
Insurance Content Team Lead
Tonya Sisler has been a technical insurance writer for over five years. She uses her extensive insurance and finance knowledge to write informative articles that answer readers' top questions. Her mission is to provide readers with timely, accurate information that allows them to determine their insurance needs and choose the best coverage. Tonya currently leads a team of 10 insurance copywrite...
Insurance Content Team Lead
UPDATED: Jul 16, 2024
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Our partnerships don’t influence our content. Our opinions are our own. To compare quotes from top car companies please enter your ZIP code above 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: Jul 16, 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 car insurance decisions. Comparison shopping should be easy. We are not affiliated with any one car insurance company and cannot guarantee quotes from any single company.
Our partnerships don’t influence our content. Our opinions are our own. To compare quotes from top car companies please enter your ZIP code above to use the free quote tool. The more quotes you compare, the more chances to save.
On This Page
- Drivers are required to register and insure their vehicles in the same state
- Active-duty servicemembers, college students, residents of two states, and workers on assignment can legally insure their cars in a different state than where it is registered
- When moving, new drivers must register their vehicles in their new state within a certain timeframe
Have you ever wondered, “Can I have car insurance from another state?” or “Can my car be registered in one state and insured in another?” Typically, no. Registering and insuring your vehicle in different states is illegal. A few exceptions allow drivers to operate a vehicle insured and registered in different states, but it’s typically considered fraud, especially if you are doing so to save money.
Vehicle registration requirements differ from state to state. When you move, it’s important to look into these requirements to ensure you can legally operate your vehicle within that state.
Keep reading for more on the requirements for car insurance out-of-state. We discuss when to register a vehicle, how to change your car insurance when moving out of state, and how vehicle registration works for U.S. drivers.
You can find the cheapest insurance coverage tailored to your needs by entering your ZIP code.
The Possibility of a Car Registered in a Different State Than Insurance
Can my car be registered in one state and insurance in another state? Generally, drivers cannot insure and register a car in two different states, but there are exceptions that allow drivers to legally operate a vehicle that is not insured in that state.
Drivers might be able to register a car in one state and insure it in another if the following situations apply:
- Temporary move. Individuals working temporarily in a different state may be able to insure their vehicles in that state, depending on their length of stay.
- Living in two homes in different states. Drivers living in two different states can insure a vehicle where it’s not registered.
- College students attending school in a different state. College students with a vehicle registered in their home state can insure it in the state where they attend school. (For more information, read our “Can I add a college student in another state to my car insurance policy?“).
- Active-duty military working in another state. Active-duty servicemembers who are working a temporary assignment in a different state can insure their vehicle in that state.
If you are unsure of where you need to register or insure your vehicle, you can speak to your insurance agent or someone at the local DMV to confirm.
Car Insurance in Two States
No, you cannot insure your car in two states. Multi-state car insurance doesn’t exist, but standard insurance policies cover drivers in all 50 states.
Even if you live in one state and work in another, you don’t need to be insured in another state just because you frequently travel between state lines.
If you live in two different states, you can register and insure your vehicle in the state where you spend the most time. Drivers who live in two states and have two cars can register and insure each vehicle in the state where they are parked.
For example, if you live in Texas six months out of the year and Minnesota for the other six months, you can register and insure a car in each state.
What to Consider When Insuring Your Car in Another State
Here are a few things to consider when deciding where to register and insure your car:
- Garaging location. Where will your car be parked?
- State laws and requirements. What are the laws and requirements of the state for registering and insuring a car?
- Time spent in the state. How long will you be residing in or visiting the state?
- Consequences. What will happen if you don’t properly insure your car and/or commit insurance fraud by not providing the correct address? Read our article, Can you legally use a different address to get cheaper car insurance?
Everyone’s circumstances differ, but you always want to be sure you are legally operating your vehicle. This may require you to update your registration and insurance information. Learn how to find car insurance coverage requirements by state to ensure you adhere to local insurance laws.
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Deadline to Register a Car After Moving to a Different State
When moving to a different state, all drivers must register their vehicle with the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) within that state. And just as minimum car insurance requirements vary by state, so do registration fees. As you can see, Arizona has the lowest fee at $10, while Florida has the highest fee at $125.
Car Registration Fees by State
| State | Registration Fee |
|---|---|
| Alabama | $23 |
| Alaska | $100 |
| Arizona | $10 |
| Arkansas | $17 |
| California | $46 |
| Connecticut | $80 |
| Delaware | $40 |
| District of Columbia | $72 |
| Florida | $225 |
| Georgia | $20 |
| Hawaii | $45 |
| Idaho | $69 |
| Illinois | $101 |
| Indiana | $36 |
| Kansas | $30 |
| Kentucky | $21 |
| Maine | $35 |
| Maryland | $135 |
| Massachusetts | $60 |
| Mississippi | $15 |
| Missouri | $21 |
| Montana | $217 |
| Nebraska | $15 |
| Nevada | $33 |
| New Hampshire | $31 |
| New Jersey | $34 |
| New Mexico | $27 |
| New York | $26 |
| North Carolina | $36 |
| North Dakota | $49 |
| Ohio | $35 |
| Oklahoma | $85 |
| Oregon | $43 |
| Pennsylvania | $36 |
| Rhode Island | $30 |
| South Carolina | $40 |
| South Dakota | $36 |
| Tennessee | $24 |
| Texas | $51 |
| Utah | $43 |
| Vermont | $76 |
| Virginia | $41 |
| Washington | $30 |
| West Virginia | $30 |
| Wisconsin | $75 |
| Wyoming | $30 |
All states allow drivers with out-of-state registration to operate their vehicle within the state for a certain amount of days before the vehicle must be registered. (For more information, read our “How do I get car insurance when moving to the USA?“).
Typically, you need insurance to register your car. The address listed on your insurance policy should match the address listed on your registration and driver’s license. In certain states, proof of insurance is not required at the time of registration; however, it must be submitted within a certain timeframe.
Updating Your Driver’s License, Vehicle Registration, and Car Insurance
How do you handle a car insurance policy when moving out of state? To start, you must establish residency before updating your driver’s license, vehicle registration, and auto insurance after moving to a new state.
Some states only request that drivers complete paperwork to get a license in that state, but in other states, a written test may be required.
Depending on your insurance company, you can quickly and easily update your address online or through the mobile app. If you prefer, you can contact your insurance agent to assist with the change.
Keeping Car Insurance From Another State
Can I have car insurance from another state? The answer is no — you can’t have out-of-state auto insurance. While it’s tempting to avoid updating your address to keep your car insurance costs low, failing to provide your insurance company with the correct address puts you at risk financially.
Car insurance is state-specific. If you’re involved in an accident, your insurance company could decide that you committed fraud and choose not to cover the claim, leaving you to pay out of pocket for property damage and bodily injury for yourself and anyone else involved.
Since some states ask for proof of insurance and an in-state license, you may end up registering your car after you get a license and update your insurance. You’ll likely fill out paperwork and pay a fee before you receive new license plates.
Virginia and New Hampshire residents must register their cars, but they aren’t required to carry car insurance. However, those who are covered must also update their address.
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Car Insurance Rates After an Address Change
Drivers who update their address on their car insurance policy may see a change in their rates.
Keep in mind that location factors into the cost of insurance. So when you move, you’ll probably see a change in your car insurance rates, in part based on state car insurance requirements and the level of risk associated with your new ZIP code.
Tracey L. Wells Licensed Insurance Agent & Agency Owner
When calculating rates, insurance companies consider auto theft rates, vandalism, and accidents in your state. Depending on where you live, you might see your rates increase. For example, drivers in big cities pay more than those in rural areas.
Did your car insurance go up after moving? Here are a few different ways to lower car insurance rates if yours increase:
- Shop around. Request quotes from different auto insurance companies to see which offers the most affordable rates for the coverage you want.
- Adjust coverage. The required liability limits in your state may be less than in your previous state, so adjusting your coverage and paying for only what you need can save.
- Increase your deductible. Collision coverage on car insurance and comprehensive car insurance coverage come with a deductible you must pay out-of-pocket before insurance kicks in. Increase the amount you’ll pay or drop these coverages on older vehicles to save money.
- Take advantage of discounts. Companies may limit which car insurance discounts and programs are available in certain states. After moving, you may now be eligible for additional discounts you weren’t before.
- Improve your credit score. Paying down your debt and making on-time payments can positively affect your credit score, decreasing your monthly car insurance rates at renewal. See more in our article about good credit car insurance discounts.
Ultimately, the goal is to get the necessary insurance coverage. Even if your new rates are a few dollars more than what you paid before your move, you’ll still be protected behind the wheel.
Car Insurance Companies With the Lowest Rates by State
Looking for affordable car insurance companies after a move? See which provider offers the most affordable rate in each state:
Lowest Car Insurance Company Rates by State for Required Coverage
| State | Company | Monthly Rates |
|---|---|---|
| Alabama | Auto-Owners | $129 |
| Alaska | Allstate | $126 |
| Arizona | Noblr | $123 |
| Arkansas | State Farm | $127 |
| California | Geico | $120 |
| Colorado | American National | $115 |
| Connecticut | Allstate | $152 |
| Delaware | Travelers | $156 |
| Florida | Geico | $127 |
| Georgia | Georgia Farm Bureau | $135 |
| Hawaii | Geico | $123 |
| Idaho | American National | $111 |
| Illinois | Auto-Owners | $128 |
| Indiana | Auto-Owners | $122 |
| Iowa | Hastings Mutual | $116 |
| Kansas | Farm Bureau Financial Services | $128 |
| Kentucky | Kentucky Farm Bureau | $119 |
| Louisiana | Southern Farm Bureau | $140 |
| Maine | Patriot Insurance | $129 |
| Maryland | Geico | $144 |
| Massachusetts | Vermont Mutual | $122 |
| Michigan | Wolverine Mutual | $121 |
| Minnesota | Farm Bureau Financial Services | $128 |
| Mississippi | State Farm | $128 |
| Missouri | Missouri Farm Bureau | $127 |
| Montana | State Farm | $115 |
| Nebraska | American National | $110 |
| Nevada | State Farm | $138 |
| New Hampshire | The Hanover | $119 |
| New Jersey | State Farm | $130 |
| New Mexico | Progressive | $127 |
| New York | NYCM | $132 |
| North Carolina | Erie | $130 |
| North Dakota | Nodak | $127 |
| Ohio | Buckeye | $118 |
| Oklahoma | American Farmers & Ranchers | $123 |
| Oregon | CIG | $145 |
| Pennsylvania | Erie | $125 |
| Rhode Island | Quincy Mutual | $143 |
| South Carolina | American National | $118 |
| South Dakota | North Star | $120 |
| Tennessee | Progressive | $123 |
| Texas | State Farm | $131 |
| Utah | QBE | $135 |
| Vermont | Union Mutual | $116 |
| Virginia | Virginia Farm Bureau | $131 |
| Washington | Pemco | $119 |
| Washington, D.C. | Chubb | $127 |
| West Virginia | Westfield | $135 |
| Wisconsin | Integrity | $114 |
| Wyoming | American National | $111 |
You may also wish to consider our top recommended providers:
Geico Car Insurance
Geico is available in all 50 states to drivers who want low, affordable car insurance rates. Drivers can customize their policies and enjoy a number of unique discounts, including DriveEasy, a telematics program that rewards drivers for being safe and responsible.
Additionally, Geico received a score of 874 out of 1,000 on the J.D. Power Auto Claims Satisfaction Study, as well as an AM Best financial rating of A++. Read our Geico car insurance review to learn more and compare quotes.
USAA
Active and retired military members will get the lowest car insurance rates with USAA. Drivers enjoy standard and optional insurance coverage, a variety of discounts, and an easy-to-use mobile app that allows them to manage their auto insurance policies.
To qualify for coverage, you must be active duty, a veteran, or an immediate family member.
USAA has an A++ AM Best rating. It consistently scores highest on the J.D. Power satisfaction study even though it is not officially considered due to its limited availability. Read our USAA car insurance review to learn more.
Since it’s recommended to to comparison shop at least three insurance companies for affordability and best coverage, there are several other affordable providers to look into. Get more information in our AAA car insurance review, Allstate car insurance review, American Family car insurance review, Farmers car insurance review, and Progressive car insurance review.
Repercussions of Driving Without Car Insurance
There is a minimum amount of car insurance required by each state. That being the case, those caught driving without insurance will be penalized.
Your state determines the consequences, but you could face license and/or registration suspension, jail, fines, or vehicle impoundment. (See our article, Can my car be impounded for not having insurance?) Should your license and/or registration be suspended, you’ll also pay reinstatement fees before you can get back behind the wheel.
Additionally, suppose you cause an accident and don’t have insurance. In that case, you’ll be required to pay out of pocket for property damage and bodily injury for yourself and any other driver involved in the accident.
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The Bottom Line: Can you have car insurance in a different state than your registration?
Can your car be insured in a different state? Can you have car insurance in a different state than registration? No, drivers who comply with state laws can avoid legal penalties by registering and insuring their vehicles in the same state.
Certain exceptions will allow you to register and insure your vehicle in different states. Check with your insurance company and local DMV to determine how to legally operate a vehicle within the state you reside in, whether it is permanently or temporarily.
Now that you have a better understanding of the answers to “Can a car be registered and insured in different states?” and “Can I insure my car in another state?” enter your ZIP code to compare rates from the top providers near you.
Case Studies: Handling Car Insurance in a Different State
Case Study 1: Transferring Coverage
John is moving from one state to another and wants to continue his car insurance coverage seamlessly. He contacts his current insurance company to ask, “Can I insure a car in another state?” John discovers that his insurance company operates in both states and offers coverage in his new location.
He provides the necessary information about his move, such as the new address and date of relocation, to transfer his policy smoothly.
Case Study 2: Finding a New Provider
Sarah is moving out of state and finds that her current insurance company does not operate in her new location. Since she knows that the answer to “Can you have out-of-state car insurance?” is no, she contacts her insurance company to notify them of her move and requests cancellation of her existing policy.
Sarah then researches and obtains quotes from insurance providers in her new state, selecting a new company that meets her coverage needs.
Case Study 3: Comparing Policies
Mike is moving to a new state and wants to ensure he has the best car insurance policy for his new location. He contacts his current insurance company to inquire about coverage options in the new state.
Mike also researches and obtains quotes from other insurance providers in the new state, comparing the policies, coverage limits, deductibles, and premiums. Based on his evaluation, he selects the insurance company that offers the most suitable policy for his new state of residence.
Case Study 4: Address Update
Samantha is moving to a new state but plans to keep her current insurance company. She contacts her insurance provider to ask, “Can you have insurance from another state?” and then updates her address and provides the necessary information about her move. Samantha ensures that her policy is updated to reflect the new state of residence, as this may impact coverage requirements and rates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can my car be insured in a different state?
Generally, drivers cannot insure and register a car in two different states, but there are exceptions that allow drivers to legally operate a vehicle that is not insured in that state.
Can I get car insurance in a different state than my license?
Usually not, because states require that your address matches your license, registration, and car insurance policy.
Can you have car insurance in two states?
No, you cannot insure your car in two states. Multi-state car insurance doesn’t exist, but standard insurance policies cover drivers in all 50 states.
How long do I have to register my car after moving to a different state?
When moving to a different state, all drivers must register their vehicle with the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) within that state.
What is the cheapest state to register a car in?
Arizona is the cheapest state to register a car in, with a base registration fee of $10. On the opposite end, California, Colorado, Florida, Hawaii, and Oregon are the most expensive states to register a vehicle.
Can I live in Florida and have a car registered in another state?
You can’t register your car in a different state from where you live to avoid higher registration rates or insurance fees. You need to register your car in Florida if your vehicle is in the state at least 90 days a year.
Can I live in California and register my car in another state?
According to the California Vehicle Code, any vehicle that is registered to a nonresident owner, and which is based in California or primarily used on California highways, shall be registered in California.
Does your car insurance and registration have to be under the same name in SC?
While there’s no law requiring the insurance and registration for a car to have the same driver’s name, some car insurance companies may deny covering. That said, some car insurance companies may not cover a car that’s not registered to the same driver buying the insurance policy.
Will my car insurance cover me if I move to another state?
No, you cannot keep your car insurance from another state. Car insurance is state-specific, and failing to provide your insurance company with the correct address may put you at risk financially.
Will my car insurance rates change after updating my address?
Drivers who update their address on their car insurance policy may see a change in their rates. Insurance companies consider factors like auto theft rates, vandalism, and accidents in your state when calculating rates.
Free Car Insurance Comparison
Enter your ZIP code below to view companies that have cheap car insurance rates.
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Tonya Sisler
Insurance Content Team Lead
Tonya Sisler has been a technical insurance writer for over five years. She uses her extensive insurance and finance knowledge to write informative articles that answer readers' top questions. Her mission is to provide readers with timely, accurate information that allows them to determine their insurance needs and choose the best coverage. Tonya currently leads a team of 10 insurance copywrite...
Insurance Content Team Lead
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.