Do I need car insurance to register my car?
You will need insurance to register a car. Registering or driving a car without insurance may result in fines of $50-$5,000. After you've obtained insurance and registered your vehicle, it will officially be drivable.
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Michael Vereecke
Commercial Lines Coverage Specialist
Michael Vereecke is the president of Customers First Insurance Group. He has been a licensed insurance agent for over 13 years. He also carries a Commercial Lines Coverage Specialist (CLCS) Designation, providing him the expertise to spot holes in businesses’ coverage. Since 2009, he has worked with many insurance providers, giving him unique insight into the insurance market, differences in ...
Commercial Lines Coverage Specialist
UPDATED: Aug 1, 2024
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UPDATED: Aug 1, 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
| Summary Details | From the Experts... |
|---|---|
| Before a vehicle owner is able to register his or her car, proof of insurance is necessary | State DMVs |
| Most states will immediately suspend a car's registration once it has been determined there is no insurance coverage | Consumer Federation of America |
| Penalties for driving uninsured vary by state, but can include fess of between $50 and $5,000 as well as suspension of driving privileges | Consumer Federation of America |
Many people ask, “Do I need insurance to register my car?” Let’s find out.
Registering and insuring a vehicle go hand-in-hand in almost every state. But do you need car insurance before or after the registration of your vehicle? Coverage is typically required first, before registration.
In other words, registering a car without insurance is not possible. Typically you’ll need to provide proof of insurance coverage to your state motor vehicle department.
Even states that don’t mandate minimum liability coverage from a licensed insurance provider require proof of insurance. Such states still require individual proof of financial ability to pay accident claims. It’s not a good idea to get caught driving without insurance.
This is why it’s important to find an insurance carrier or two that you feel you can trust even before you set your eyes on buying a vehicle.
To make sure you have the coverage you need to drive legally and be able to register your vehicle, enter your ZIP code to start comparing car online insurance quotes from America’s top providers for free.
Car Insurance and Vehicle Registration
You already know you need car insurance in order to legally drive, but what comes first? Car insurance or registration? As we noted above, you do typically need insurance to register a car, so check out these four proven facts that demonstrate the necessity of car insurance to register your vehicle.
#1 – You Must Have Insurance to Register Your Vehicle
Before a vehicle owner is able to register his or her car, proof of insurance is usually necessary. Usually, an insurance card or a printout detailing the type of coverage you have purchased is adequate.
The local Department of Motor Vehicles will need to see that the proof of insurance supplied is valid, lists the vehicle you want to register, and provides the minimum amount of coverage.
It is not typically legal to register a vehicle unless you have a car insurance policy.
Even temporary car insurance coverage will work if you are able to fax or mail in a copy of your permanent car insurance policy within 30 days.
By tying registration and auto insurance obligations together, states theoretically reduce the number of uninsured drivers on the road. However, statistics show that in most cases where uninsured drivers are caught, a lapsed policy is the reason for being uninsured.
#2 – You Will Face Penalties if Caught Driving Without Insurance
The cost of car accidents can be extremely high, so states take the matter of carrying car insurance very seriously. Almost all of them will immediately suspend a car’s registration once it has been determined that there is no insurance coverage.
Some states, like New York, for example, give drivers a short period of time to surrender the car’s license plates once insurance coverage has lapsed. A failure to do so will result in suspension of your driver’s license.
Find the penalty in your state for a driving uninsured first offense in this table.
Penalty for Driving Uninsured (First Offense) by State
| State | Suspension of Driving Privileges | Fine | Other Penalties |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alabama | Suspension with $200 reinstatement fee | Up to $500 | |
| Alaska | License suspension for 90 days | ||
| Arizona | License/registration/license plate suspension for three months | At least $500 | |
| Arkansas | Suspended registration/no plates until proof of coverage plus $20 reinstatement fee | $50 to $250 | Court may order impoundment |
| California | $100 to $200 plus penalty assessments | Court may order impoundment | |
| Colorado | License suspension until you can show proof to the DMV that you are insured | At least $500 | Four points against your license. Courts may add up to 40 hours community service |
| Connecticut | Suspended registration/license for one month (show proof of insurance) with $175 reinstatement fee | $100 to $1000 | |
| Delaware | License/privilege suspension for six months | $1500 minimum fine | |
| Florida | Suspension of license and registration until reinstatement fee is paid and non-cancelable coverage is secured; $150 fee for first reinstatement | ||
| Georgia | Suspended registration with $25 lapse fee and $60 reinstatement fee | Pay any other registration fees and vehicle ad valorem taxes due | |
| Hawaii | Either license suspension for three months or a required nonrefundable insurance policy in force for six months | $500 fine or community service granted by judge | |
| Idaho | License suspension until financial proof | $75 | |
| Illinois | License plate suspension until $100 reinstatement fee and insurance proof | ||
| Indiana | License/registration suspension for 90 days to one year | ||
| Iowa | Removal of plates and registration possible when pulled over without insurance and reissued upon payment of fine or completed community service, proof of insurance, and $15 fee | $500 if in accident; Otherwise $250. Or community service in lieu of fine | Possible impoundment |
| Kansas | license/registration suspension; reinstatement fee: $100 | $300 to $1000 | Confinement in jail up to six months instead of or in addition to fine |
| Kentucky | License plates and registration revoked for one year or until proof of insurance is shown | $500 to $1000 | Up to 90 days in jail instead of or in addition to fine |
| Louisiana | If in car accident, fine plus registration revoked and driving privileges suspended for 180 days | $500 to $1000 | |
| Maine | Suspension of license and registration until proof of insurance | $100 to $500 | |
| Maryland | Lose license plates and vehicle registration privileges; Pay a restoration fee of up to $25 for a vehicle's registration | Pay uninsured motorist penalty fees for each lapse of insurance — $150 for the first 30 days, $7 for each day thereafter | |
| Massachusetts | $500 to $5000 | Imprisonment for one year or less instead of or in addition to fine | |
| Michigan | License suspension for 30 days or until proof of insurance | $200 to $500 $25 service fee to Secretary of State | Imprisonment for one year or less instead of or in addition to fine |
| Minnesota | License and registration revoked for no more than 12 months | $200 to $1000 | Community service possible instead of fine; 90 days imprisonment instead of or in addition to fine |
| Mississippi | Driving privileges suspended for one year or until proof of insurance | $1000 | |
| Missouri | Suspended until proof of insurance with $20 reinstatement fee | Four points against driving record; Driver may be supervised | |
| Montana | $250 to $500 | Imprisonment for no more than 10 days instead of or in addition to fine | |
| Nebraska | License and registration suspension; reinstatement fee of $50 for each | Proof of insurance to remain on file for three years | |
| Nevada | Registration suspension — until payment of $250 reinstatement fee | $250 to $1,000 depending on length of lapse | Depending on circumstances, an SR-22 (proof of financial responsibility) if lapsed more than 90 days |
| New Hampshire | Not a mandatory insurance state. Proof of insurance may be required as the result of a conviction, crash involvement, or administrative action. If you are required to file proof of insurance and vehicles are registered in your name, you will be required to file an Owner’s SR-22 Certificate of Insurance. | ||
| New Jersey | License suspension for one year | $300 to $1000 | Pay surcharges for three years in the amount of $250 per year |
| New Mexico | License suspension | Up to $300 | Imprisoned for 90 days instead of or in addition to fine |
| New York | Registration suspension equal to time without insurance; License suspension equal to registration suspension if without insurance for 90 days | Up to $1500 if involved in accident plus $750 civil penalty | Instead of suspension, option to pay $8/day up to thirty days for which financial security was not in effect, $10/day from the thirty-first to the sixtieth day $12/day from the sixtieth to the ninetieth day and proof of security is provided; up to 15 days imprisonment in addition to or instead of fine |
| North Carolina | Registration suspension until proof of financial responsibility but 30-day suspension if in car accident or knowingly driving without insurance; $50 restoration fee plus license plate fee | $50 | |
| North Dakota | Suspension until proof of insurance is provided | Up to $1500 | 30 days imprisonment instead of or in addition to fine; 14 points against license; proof of insurance must be provided for one year; license with a notation requiring that person keep proof of liability insurance on file with the department. The fee for this license is $50, and the fee to remove this notation is $50 |
| Ohio | License/plates/registration suspension until requirements are met and $100 reinstatement fee is paid | Maintain special high-risk coverage on file with the BMV for three to five years; if involved in an accident without insurance, all above penalties and a security suspension for two plus years and an indefinite judgment suspension (until all damages are satisfied) | |
| Oklahoma | License suspension with $275 reinstatement fee | $250 | Jail time up to 30 days; police can seize license plates and assign temporary plates and liability insurance — in effect for 10 days and can also impound the vehicle. The cost of the temporary coverage is added to the administrative fee and any fines paid for plates to be returned. If car impounded, owner must also pay towing and storage fees |
| Oregon | If involved in accident — at least a one year license suspension | $130 to $1000 ($260 is the presumptive fine) | Proof of financial responsibility required for three years |
| Pennsylvania | Registration suspended for three months (unless lapse was for less than 31 days and vehicle not operated during that time); $88 restoration fee plus proof of insurance required to get it back | $500 civil penalty fee is optional in lieu of registration suspension plus $88 restoration fee — can only use this option once within a 12-month period | |
| Rhode Island | License and registration suspension up to three months; reinstatement fee: $30 to $50 | $100 to $500 | |
| South Carolina | License/registration suspended until proof of insurance plus $200 reinstatement fee | $100 to $200 | 30 days imprisonment instead of fine |
| South Dakota | License suspension for 30 days to one year | $100 | 30 days imprisonment instead of or in addition to fine; filing proof of insurance (SR-22) with the state for three years from date of conviction. Failure to file proof will result in suspension of vehicle registration, license plates, and driver license |
| Tennessee | Only if fee is unpaid | $25 within 30 days | Pay $25 coverage failure fee within 30 days of notice; if not paid, then an additional $100 coverage failure fee with suspension or revocation of registration plus reinstatement fee of no more than $25 |
| Texas | $175 to $350 | pay up to a $250 surcharge every year for three years (may be reduced with certain requirements) | |
| Utah | License suspension until proof of insurance (maintained for three years) and $100 reinstatement fee | $400 | |
| Vermont | License suspended until proof of insurance | Up to $500 | |
| Virginia | May pay $500 Uninsured Motorists Vehicle fee to drive without insurance at your own risk. If this fee is not paid in lieu of insurance, all driving and vehicle registration privileges will be suspended until a $500 statutory fee is paid, proof of insurance is filed for three years, and a reinstatement fee (if applicable) is paid | ||
| Washington | Up to $250 | ||
| Washington D.C. | |||
| West Virginia | License suspended for 30 days with reinstatement fees, unless there's proof of insurance and $200 penalty fee | $200 to $5000 | |
| Wisconsin | Up to $500 | ||
| Wyoming | Up to $750 | Up to six months imprisonment |
In addition, most states also levy punitive fines to drivers caught on the road without adequate car insurance. In some cases, the fines are accompanied by a penalty period in which the car can neither be insured nor registered.
The idea behind such punitive measures is to discourage repeat offenses among those who would allow their insurance coverage to lapse. Such penalties still apply even in cases where you might be insuring and registering a vehicle titled in someone else’s name.
Read more:
- What happens if I drive my car with a suspended registration?
- Is it illegal to own a vehicle without insurance?
- What is the penalty for driving without insurance in Hawaii?
- What is the penalty for driving without insurance in Kentucky?
- What is the penalty for driving without insurance in Louisiana?
- What is the penalty for driving without insurance in Mississippi?
- What is the penalty for driving without insurance in Montana?
- What is the penalty for driving without insurance in Nevada?
- What is the penalty for driving without insurance in Oklahoma?
- What is the penalty for driving without insurance in Washington?
- What is the penalty for driving without insurance in West Virginia?
#3 – The DMV Will Be Notified of an Insurance Lapse
As stated earlier, it’s not possible under most circumstances to register a vehicle without proof of insurance coverage. As for those cases where drivers allow insurance coverage to lapse, states track this through a variety of means.
Some rely on ID cards compared to routine reports from car insurance companies licensed to do business in their state. Others utilize an electronic database that is regularly updated and can be accessed by both police and the DMV (we’ll talk about this in greater detail later).
Check out the following facts about uninsured drivers in the U.S. from the Insurance Information Institute:
- The national average of uninsured drivers is 13 percent
- Maine has the lowest rate at 4.5 percent
- Florida has the highest rate at 26.7 percent
New York has the second-lowest rate at six percent. New York accomplishes this through a mandatory electronic system that all licensed insurance carriers must use. Insurance provider computers are linked to the system so every time a policy is changed the state is notified.
As soon as an insurance policy is allowed to lapse, the state DMV computer automatically generates a letter that is sent to the driver to encourage corrective action.
Read More: Compare Best Car Insurance Companies That Don’t Report to the DMV When They Cancel a Customer
#4 – There Is No Fool-Proof Way to Make Sure Every Car on the Road Is Insured
Under the current registration and insurance system, there is no absolutely fool-proof method of making sure that every car on the road has insurance coverage.
Some experts claim that the current system could be improved by turning over the registration and licensing responsibilities to insurance providers.
One theory is that the insurance companies could not issue license plates until owners have insured a vehicle. At the end of the policy, or at the time of lapse, those plates would no longer be valid.
Though privatizing the registration and licensing process does have its advantages, it still doesn’t prevent drivers from allowing insurance coverage to lapse while leaving the plates on the vehicle.
In order for this system to work, a method of enforcement needs to be adopted. Something similar to bank repossession for a defaulted loan could work well.
If insurance companies were given the authority to repossess license plates after an insurance lapse, the system could probably reduce the number of uninsured drivers to a negligible number.
Maintaining appropriate car insurance is a legal responsibility as well as a social one. Not only are the potential fines and penalties for driving uninsured costly for you, but the costs incurred by other drivers in an accident you cause can be even higher.
Before heading down to the DMV to register your vehicle, find the best car insurance rates in your area by entering your ZIP code in our free tool.
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The Necessity of Insurance for Vehicle Registration
When it comes to vehicle registration, understanding the relationship between insurance and registration is crucial. In most states, you cannot register a car without insurance. You must obtain insurance before registration to ensure you meet the legal requirements for driving. This means you need to insure a car before registering it to be compliant with state laws. If you are wondering whether you can obtain license plates without insurance, the answer is generally no—insurance is required to get tags.
Furthermore, even if you are trying to insure a car not registered to me, you still need to present proof of insurance to register a car. This proof is usually required by the DMV or local motor vehicle department to ensure that you are covered. The process of registration cannot proceed without the necessary insurance needed for registration. Therefore, insurance is necessary to register a vehicle, and you must obtain insurance prior to registering a car to complete the registration process effectively.
Should I register the car first or get insurance?
When it comes to the question of whether to register a car first or insurance, the answer is clear: you must secure insurance before you can register your vehicle. Almost all states have stringent laws that require drivers to have proof of insurance before they can complete the registration process. This means you cannot register a vehicle without insurance. Attempting to register the car without insurance will result in your application being denied until you can present valid proof of coverage.
Deciding whether to register or insure the car first is straightforward. The insurance must come first. When you purchase a new vehicle, your first step should be to contact an insurance provider and get the necessary coverage. Only after you have obtained this coverage can you proceed to register car insurance with your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). This process ensures that all vehicles on the road are adequately insured, which is critical for both legal and financial protection.
In summary, the process to register or insure the car first requires you to obtain insurance before heading to the DMV. Attempting to register a vehicle without insurance not only delays your ability to legally drive your car but can also result in fines or penalties.
By securing your insurance coverage first, you can then confidently register the car without insurance concerns, knowing that you are compliant with state laws and ready to hit the road safely.
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Registering Your Vehicle Without Insurance in California
Given that California, like many states, requires proof of insurance to register a vehicle, attempting to register your car without insurance in California is generally not permissible. State laws mandate that drivers must provide proof of financial responsibility, usually in the form of an insurance policy, before they can complete the registration process.
This requirement ensures that all vehicles operating on California roads are covered by liability insurance, which is crucial for protecting both drivers and third parties in the event of accidents. If you attempt to register your vehicle without insurance in California, the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) will typically deny your registration application.
This denial can lead to delays and potentially legal consequences if you continue to operate an uninsured vehicle on public roads. It’s essential to understand and comply with California’s insurance requirements to avoid such issues and ensure you are driving legally and responsibly. Before attempting to register your car without insurance in California, it’s advisable to contact an insurance provider to obtain the necessary coverage.
Insurance companies in California offer various options to meet the state’s minimum liability insurance requirements, tailored to your specific needs and driving habits. Once you have secured insurance, you can proceed with confidence to complete the vehicle registration process at your local DMV office, ensuring compliance with state laws and enjoying peace of mind on the road.
Getting Insurance Without Registering a Car
In some cases, you may need to get insurance without registering your car immediately. This situation can arise, for example, when you purchase a vehicle but have not yet completed the registration process with your state’s DMV. Insurance companies understand this need and typically allow you to obtain insurance coverage with just the vehicle identification number (VIN).
This enables you to protect your new purchase while you complete the necessary paperwork to get registration without insurance. However, it’s important to note that while you can get insurance without registration, you will ultimately need to complete the registration process to legally drive your vehicle. When you need to get license plates without insurance immediately after purchasing a vehicle, it’s crucial to inform your insurance provider of the situation.
They can issue you a temporary insurance policy based on the VIN, allowing you to drive legally until you can complete the registration process without insurance. This temporary coverage ensures that you comply with state laws and are protected in case of any unforeseen incidents on the road. Once you receive your permanent registration and plates, you can update your insurance policy accordingly to reflect the new information.
In summary, while it is possible to get tags without insurance temporarily, you must eventually complete the registration process and provide proof of insurance to maintain legal driving status. This process ensures that all vehicles on the road are properly insured and registered, promoting safety and compliance with state regulations. Always communicate with your insurance provider about your specific situation to ensure you have the coverage you need while navigating the initial stages of vehicle ownership.
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The Relationship Between Car Insurance and Registration
Understanding the relationship between car insurance and vehicle registration is crucial for all vehicle owners. In most states, insurance required to register a car is a standard regulation. This means that your car must have insurance to be registered legally. Before heading to the DMV, you must secure an insurance policy that meets your state’s minimum coverage requirements. Once you have this policy, you can provide proof of insurance to register the car.
Failing to comply with these requirements can result in penalties, fines, and the inability to legally drive your vehicle. Interestingly, while your car must have insurance to be registered, it’s also true that many insurance companies require a vehicle to be registered before they provide coverage.
This might seem like a catch-22, but most insurance providers, including companies like Geico, offer a solution. You can insure a car without registration temporarily, allowing you to get the necessary coverage to then proceed with the vehicle registration process. During this period, you might also need to provide Geico proof of residency or other documentation to finalize both your insurance and registration.
In some states, while you can insure a car without registration, ultimately, the car must be registered to be insured on a long-term basis. This ensures that all vehicles on the road are both legally registered and insured, promoting overall road safety and financial responsibility. When you are ready to register your car, make sure to have all necessary documents, including the proof of insurance and any required proof of residency, to streamline the process and avoid any legal complications.
The Importance of Obtaining Insurance Prior to Registering a Car
It is essential to obtain insurance prior to registering a car to comply with state regulations and ensure that you are legally permitted to drive. In almost every state, you cannot proceed with the registration process until you have secured the necessary insurance coverage.
Therefore, make sure to obtain insurance before registration to avoid any delays or legal issues. By securing an insurance policy first, you can then present the proof of insurance to register a car when you visit the DMV. This step is mandatory and helps to ensure that all drivers are financially responsible in the event of an accident.
Some drivers may wonder if it is possible to obtain license plates without insurance, but in most cases, this is not allowed. States require proof of insurance before they will issue license plates to ensure that all registered vehicles are covered by insurance. Without meeting this requirement, you cannot legally drive your car on public roads. Therefore, presenting proof of insurance to register a car is a critical step in the vehicle registration process.
In summary, the key to a smooth vehicle registration process is to obtain insurance prior to registering a car. This not only fulfills legal requirements but also ensures that you are protected in case of any incidents on the road. Always remember to obtain insurance before registration and be prepared to present your insurance documents at the DMV to avoid any complications. By following these steps, you can ensure that your vehicle is both legally registered and adequately insured, providing peace of mind and compliance with state laws.
How to Register and Insure Your Vehicle
Can you register a car without insurance? Typically no. So before operating your motor vehicle, you must purchase insurance coverage
- You must also register your vehicle with the state in which you live
- Operating a motor vehicle on any public road without proper registration and insurance is illegal
- The only exception to this rule applies to farm vehicles that may need to move from one piece of land to the next
Owning your first car can indeed be an exciting venture. But simply making a purchase is not enough to allow you to start driving.
You first have to procure insurance for your car, as well as register it with the state. Doing these things can be somewhat time-consuming, but both are usually easy tasks.
Outside of the few exceptions, you are risking serious penalties, and possibly even jail time, if you’re caught driving a vehicle without correct registration and insurance.
When it’s time to find insurance on that new car, you can shop for car insurance quotes online by entering your ZIP code above.
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Do you have to have insurance to register a car?
Just about every state requires that drivers carry a minimum amount of liability insurance on any vehicle they register. But do you need to insure a car before registering it? Yes.
In states that don’t require a traditional insurance policy, drivers must still file a form attesting to the fact that they have the financial resources to qualify as self-insured.
In either case, this must be done before your vehicle can be registered. You may be wondering, do I need proof of insurance to register my car? Yes, you’ll need to take with you a copy of your insurance certificate when you go to the DMV to register the car.
If you allow your coverage to lapse, you may also be required to surrender your registration in some states. In order to get your registration back, you will have to once again procure auto insurance and provide a certificate of proof.
In some states, driving without insurance can mean hefty fines, a one-year suspension of your driver’s license, and significantly higher insurance rates for at least a couple of years.
Read more: What does a car insurance certificate look like?
Once I have my insurance, what do I do?
Most states require that first-time registrations be done in person at a local branch of the Department of Motor Vehicles. You will need to take with you all appropriate paperwork including sales receipt, registration application, proof of car insurance, and anything else your state might require.
If you’re not sure what you’ll need, contact your local DMV branch before your visit.
Be aware that some states require drivers to prove their residency through a utility bill or some other piece of mail with the correct address on it.
At your local DMV office, workers will examine your paperwork to make sure everything is in order. If it is, they will print your registration, give you license plates, and collect the registration fee.
In states where license plates stay with a vehicle for its lifetime, you’ll only receive new plates if you’ve purchased a car from out of state or from a dealer that does not provide plates. All other vehicles in those states will simply be provided with a new registration card.
How long do I have to register my vehicle?
Laws differ between the states regarding many aspects of motor vehicle ownership, usage, and registration. When it comes to time limits for registration, some states have them while others don’t.
For example, in the state of California, you must register your vehicle within ten days of the date of purchase. Failure to do so will result in late fees being assessed when you eventually do decide to register it.
New York, on the other hand, has no time limit for vehicle registrations following a purchase.
If you’re talking about moving into a new state rather than purchasing a new vehicle, things are a bit different. Almost every state has a specific time limit after which you are required to register your vehicle in that state.
Using California as an example again, you are considered a state resident after 30 days of uninterrupted time in California. You must register your out-of-state vehicle with the California DMV immediately upon reaching the 30-day requirement.
There are other states whose time limits are very similar to California. On the other hand, there are others with time limits that are much more forgiving. In a couple of southern states, for example, residency requirements don’t kick in for 60 or 90 days.
This gives you more time to register your vehicle in the new state. Rest assured, however, that if you live in a new state long enough to establish residency, and you don’t change your registration, you could be fined if you’re ever pulled over for a violation.
Whether you’re moving to a new state or staying where you are, you can find reliable online car insurance quotes by entering your ZIP code in our free tool.
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Should I get a car registration or insurance first?
Both auto insurance and car registration are required to legally drive in the U.S. However, do you need insurance to register a car? Or do you need to register a car before insuring it? These are great questions, because while both insurance and registration are required, sometimes it can be confusing about which comes first.
In general, you’ll need insurance first because most states require proof of insurance as part of the registration process.
The national average rate of auto insurance is $1,427/year or $118/mo.
- Car registration is used so the government knows who legally owns the car
- Car insurance helps protect drivers from financial burden when an accident occurs
- In most cases, the minimum amount of car insurance coverage allowed in a state is not enough to help in a serious accident
Car registration and an auto insurance policy are both requirements to operate a vehicle legally in most states. Registering the vehicle allows the government to track who the legal owner is. Car insurance is bought by the vehicle owner to provide financial protection if they are involved in an accident.
Enter your ZIP code to start comparing free car insurance quotes from multiple companies now.
Registering a Vehicle
A person who has recently bought a vehicle or had ownership transferred to themselves will need to register it with the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) for their state.
Individuals who have recently moved to a new state are also required to register the vehicle with the DMV after they arrive.
Contact the DMV office to find out what the time limit is for new residents of the state.
Are you wondering, “What do I need to register a car?” When a car is bought through a dealership, the dealer may submit the title and registration documents to the DMV on the new owner’s behalf. Private sales and title transfers are handled differently, and the owner is required to go to the DMV office to submit the required paperwork themselves.
Read more: Do you need car insurance to transfer a car title?
The new owner will be required to show their driver’s license, as well as the title document.
A bill of sale, which may need to be notarized, is also required.
To find out exactly what documents the new owner of a vehicle is required to produce at registration, contact the local DMV office.
Do I need proof of insurance to register a car? Do I buy insurance before registering a car, or after? While car insurance is required to legally operate a motor vehicle, proof of insurance is not always required to simply register the vehicle (it depends on where you live). When the owner signs the registration document, this action indicates the vehicle is properly insured.
When you visit the DMV, make sure they are not sharing your private information with people they shouldn’t be. In a recent study, we found several states’ DMVs were selling your informationto private third parties in unethical ways.
Buying Car Insurance
Each state sets a minimum level of insurance coverage that must be purchased for a vehicle. In many parts of the United States, drivers are only legally required to carry liability insurance, which pays for medical bills, lost wages, and funeral expenses for the occupants of the other vehicle involved in an accident.
There are some states in which drivers can prove financial ability to cover the costs of an accident, rather than purchase insurance. However, this is not feasible for most drivers.
Driving without car insurance, or the appropriate proof of ability to pay, is not only punishable as a criminal offense, but it can lead to serious financial consequences for the vehicle owner.
Without this type of protection, the owner is personally responsible for damages caused in an accident.
The car insurance put in place on a vehicle is a contract between the vehicle owner and the insurer. As long as the owner has bought at least the minimum level of coverage required by law, the state is not concerned with how much coverage they are carrying.
Read More: Buying Car Insurance for Your New Car
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Getting the Best Car Insurance Coverage
Car owners need to do their homework to find the right level of coverage for their needs and to get the best possible rate.
Buying the minimum amount required by law will satisfy the state, but may not be sufficient protection if a serious accident occurs.
Medical expenses alone can add up very quickly, and a policy that pays out a relatively small amount may not be the best choice.
Coverage rates are something that most car insurance buyers consider before making a purchase. To give you a baseline, take a look at this table to see the average annual rates by state for different types of car insurance coverage.
Average Annual Insurance Rates by Coverage Type in Each State
| State | Average Cost of Comprehensive Insurance per Year | Average Cost of Collision Insurance per Year | Average Cost of Full Coverage Insurance per Year | Average Cost of Liability Insurance per Year |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alabama | $156.31 | $317.96 | $868.48 | $372.57 |
| Alaska | $137.26 | $350.81 | $1,027.75 | $547.34 |
| Arizona | $186.12 | $277.96 | $972.85 | $488.59 |
| Arkansas | $190.41 | $321.80 | $906.34 | $381.14 |
| California | $100.54 | $396.55 | $986.75 | $462.95 |
| Colorado | $174.61 | $287.00 | $981.64 | $477.10 |
| Connecticut | $131.62 | $368.51 | $1,151.07 | $633.95 |
| Delaware | $122.49 | $318.77 | $1,240.57 | $776.50 |
| District of Columbia | $233.24 | $468.67 | $1,330.73 | $628.09 |
| South Dakota | $116.53 | $282.96 | $1,257.13 | $289.04 |
| Florida | $159.18 | $331.83 | $1,048.40 | $845.05 |
| Georgia | $101.56 | $313.17 | $873.28 | $490.64 |
| Hawaii | $116.55 | $219.05 | $679.89 | $458.49 |
| Idaho | $128.13 | $309.71 | $884.56 | $337.17 |
| Illinois | $122.06 | $250.29 | $755.03 | $430.54 |
| Indiana | $183.53 | $219.75 | $702.46 | $372.44 |
| Iowa | $267.91 | $263.33 | $862.93 | $293.34 |
| Kansas | $141.39 | $267.91 | $938.51 | $342.33 |
| Kentucky | $215.17 | $414.36 | $1,405.36 | $518.91 |
| Louisiana | $104.98 | $259.98 | $703.82 | $727.15 |
| Maine | $152.72 | $353.99 | $1,116.45 | $333.92 |
| Maryland | $134.96 | $388.28 | $1,129.29 | $599.48 |
| Massachusetts | $154.85 | $413.83 | $1,364.00 | $587.75 |
| Michigan | $184.27 | $234.40 | $875.49 | $722.04 |
| Minnesota | $210.33 | $323.22 | $994.05 | $439.58 |
| Mississippi | $181.27 | $275.28 | $872.43 | $437.38 |
| Missouri | $211.91 | $265.32 | $863.52 | $399.41 |
| Montana | $229.25 | $237.13 | $831.02 | $387.77 |
| Nebraska | $117.63 | $303.86 | $1,103.05 | $349.07 |
| Nevada | $110.77 | $307.42 | $818.75 | $647.07 |
| New Hampshire | $131.35 | $381.86 | $1,382.79 | $393.24 |
| New Jersey | $172.57 | $276.98 | $937.59 | $865.55 |
| New Mexico | $171.12 | $385.02 | $1,360.66 | $462.21 |
| New York | $136.08 | $293.59 | $789.09 | $784.98 |
| North Carolina | $231.04 | $244.09 | $773.30 | $357.59 |
| North Dakota | $121.61 | $269.84 | $788.56 | $282.55 |
| Ohio | $225.84 | $318.47 | $1,005.32 | $376.16 |
| Oklahoma | $93.87 | $226.83 | $904.83 | $441.57 |
| Oregon | $144.21 | $327.24 | $970.51 | $553.43 |
| Pennsylvania | $132.19 | $411.51 | $1,303.50 | $495.02 |
| Rhode Island | $180.94 | $265.07 | $973.10 | $720.06 |
| South Carolina | $258.11 | $208.58 | $766.91 | $497.50 |
| Tennessee | $148.45 | $309.07 | $871.43 | $397.73 |
| Texas | $206.42 | $374.49 | $1,109.66 | $498.44 |
| Utah | $109.50 | $265.90 | $872.93 | $471.26 |
| Vermont | $125.48 | $295.42 | $764.02 | $340.98 |
| Virginia | $136.54 | $280.52 | $842.67 | $413.12 |
| Washington | $106.38 | $265.74 | $968.80 | $568.92 |
| West Virginia | $204.28 | $329.67 | $1,025.78 | $501.44 |
| Wisconsin | $136.81 | $226.00 | $737.18 | $359.84 |
| Wyoming | $247.57 | $278.83 | $847.44 | $323.38 |
There is a definite balancing act involved in getting the right level of protection without paying too much for it. One way to get this balance right is to shop around and compare offerings from several insurance companies before making a final decision.
The Internet makes this process relatively quick and convenient for car insurance consumers.
When you are buying a car, you want to get the necessary paperwork for car registration and car insurance coverage out of the way quickly so you can start driving it.
Do I need insurance to register a car? Usually yes, so take care of purchasing a policy first, before heading to the DMV.
Don’t spend more time than you need to search for the right insurance coverage when the insurance tool on this page is available to help you compare rates from different providers.
Can I register my car without insurance?
Every state has its own vehicle registration rules when it comes to an owner registering a new car. In some states, the Department of Motor Vehicles has done away with the requirement to show your proof of car insurance to the agent as the vehicle is being registered.
However, if you’re wondering, do I register a car first or insure it? The answer is that you should probably insure it first, so you can legally drive it on the road.
Every state has its own vehicle registration rules when it comes to an owner registering a new car. If you have just recently moved to a new state or you are planning on buying a new car, it is your responsibility to set aside time to learn about the registration process. Can I register a car without insurance? You’ll need to check your state laws to find out.
In most states, you will be required to present your personal identification, your proof of residency, and proof of vehicle ownership to register a car in your name. This will help you avoid delays and possible monetary penalties.
Read this guide to car insurance and obtaining your registration so that you are prepared and protected as a vehicle owner.
Do you need to have coverage to register a car?
In many states, the Department of Motor Vehicles has done away with the requirement to show your proof of car insurance to the agent as the vehicle is being registered.
While the agent might not ask to see proof of coverage just to hand over your plates, that does not mean that you do not need to have coverage in place.
A majority of states do require that you have coverage, they just verify your coverage in another way.
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State Car Insurance Requirements
All states have some form of compulsory insurance or financial responsibility law in place. These laws may change every couple of years, but they are essential to keeping drivers and pedestrians safe on public roadways.
If you are new to a state or you have never brushed up on the requirements, you should set aside some time to learn about the minimum insurance requirements set by your state officials.
Some states may only require you to have liability insurance and others may require more. Many times, coverage requirements depend upon what type of system is used for car insurance injury claims.
What do we mean by that? Keep reading to see a breakdown of the two types of systems widely used in the U.S. today.
What are tort systems?
A tort auto insurance system is a fault-based system where the person deemed negligent for third-party injuries in a crash is responsible for paying for the bills and other costs.
Currently, a majority of states operate under tort systems. In these states, all drivers must have at least Bodily Injury and Property Damage coverage, but some may also require Uninsured Motorist and Medical Payments.
What are no-fault systems?
There are currently 12 states that have some form of no-fault car insurance system. With so many different variations of no-fault insurance, there is no real pure system in place.
When there is a no-fault system, it is not the negligent party who pays for the medical bills. Instead, every person has insurance that will pay for their own medical bills when they are injured in a collision.
This is why all policyholders must have Personal Injury Protection that pays for medical transport, treatment, and rehabilitation costs.
Some states will also require a minimum amount of liability coverage to protect you if you cross state lines. These are partially no-fault states, where you may buy more coverage for the right to sue for pain and suffering in more serious accidents.
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Optional Car Insurance Coverage Types
Transportation agencies will only verify that a vehicle owner carries what is required by law and not the optional types of coverage that are offered.
While having state minimum limits for coverage will satisfy the law, this basic type of policy does not ensure you are protected.
It is very important that you compare the types of coverage available, price different limits, and build yourself a policy that really passes the burden of paying for claims on to the carrier.
Here are some other types of coverage you can buy:
- Higher limits of liability
- Medical payments
- Comprehensive cover for your vehicle
- Collision cover for your vehicle
- Uninsured Motorist
- Uninsured Motorist Property Damage
Shop around and talk to licensed insurance agents to help you determine the best coverage mix for your needs and lifestyle.
How does the DMV verify that you have coverage?
Do you have to register your car before getting insurance? Can you get a license plate without insurance? As we’re already noted, it depends on where you live. If you’re in one of the states that does not require you to present proof of coverage, you might wonder how your coverage is verified.
After all, you do not have to be pulled over by a police officer just to get caught being uninsured.
Now, with all of the different database systems that are used by agencies and insurers, the DMV can request your proof of coverage and determine when a policy cancels while the registration is still active.
What is the electronic verification system?
In an effort to combat the high rates of uninsured motorists, many state officials are passing laws that require insurance carriers to actually report the policy status of each vehicle that they insure to the DMV electronically.
This is reported using an electronic verification system which both the DMV and the carrier have access to.
This updates the status of your registration soon after the DMV finds out that you do not have an active car insurance policy.
If you are making an appointment to register your vehicle and you do not yet have insurance, it is time to start shopping. The best way to shop the price of coverage is to compare the rates with many different licensed carriers.
If you want to comparison shop without contacting several companies directly, use an online rate quote tool and enter your information.
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The Bottom Line for Car Insurance Vehicle Registration
In most cases, you’re required to provide proof of insurance when registering your vehicle. If you live in a state that does not require this, it doesn’t mean that you don’t need insurance for your vehicle, it just means that you won’t need current proof at the time of registration. However, any lapse in insurance coverage will be reported, so make sure you end up with insurance sooner rather than later.
Regardless of whether or not proof of insurance is necessary to register your vehicle, you should always maintain coverage that at least meets the minimum liability requirements set by your state (though it’s a good idea to purchase a policy with additional coverage).
Ready to get the coverage you need so you can register your vehicle? Start comparing car insurance rates now by entering your ZIP code in our free tool.
Case Studies: Examples of How Car Insurance is Utilized for Registering a Car
Case Study 1: Liability Insurance
John recently purchased a new car and wanted to register it with the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). In his state, liability insurance is required to register a vehicle. John contacted an insurance provider and obtained the minimum liability coverage as mandated by the state.
He received a proof of insurance card from the insurer, which he presented to the DMV during the registration process. The DMV verified the insurance coverage, and John was able to successfully register his car.
Case Study 2: Comprehensive and Collision Coverage
Sarah had a car that she had been driving without insurance. She was involved in an accident that resulted in significant damage to her vehicle. Realizing the importance of insurance, she decided to purchase comprehensive collision coverage before registering her car.
Sarah contacted an insurance company and obtained a policy that included comprehensive coverage for damage caused by events other than accidents (such as theft or natural disasters) and collision coverage for accidents involving her vehicle. With her insurance policy in hand, Sarah visited the DMV, presented her proof of insurance, and registered her car.
Case Study 3: Uninsured Motorist Coverage
Michael had experienced an incident where he was hit by an uninsured driver while driving his previous car. Determined to protect himself from such situations, he decided to purchase uninsured motorist coverage when he bought a new car. Uninsured motorist coverage provides financial protection in case of an accident with a driver who doesn’t have insurance.
Michael obtained the coverage from an insurance provider and presented the proof of insurance to the DMV during the registration process. His insurance coverage included the required liability coverage as well as uninsured motorist coverage, ensuring his financial protection on the road.
Case Study 4: Personal Injury Protection (PIP)
Emily moved to a state that had a no-fault insurance system in place. In this state, drivers are required to have personal injury protection (PIP) coverage. PIP coverage provides medical expenses and other benefits to policyholders regardless of who caused the accident.
Emily contacted an insurance company and purchased a policy that included the required PIP coverage. She provided the proof of insurance to the DMV during the registration process, along with other necessary documents. Emily’s car registration was completed, and she was ready to drive legally in her new state.
Case Study 5: Additional Coverage Options
Mark, a car enthusiast, purchased a high-value luxury vehicle. Understanding the potential risks associated with such a valuable asset, he decided to go beyond the minimum requirements and obtain additional coverage options.
Mark contacted an insurance provider specializing in luxury vehicles and customized his insurance policy to include comprehensive coverage, collision coverage, and increased liability limits. He provided comprehensive policy details and proof of insurance to the DMV during the registration process, ensuring that his expensive vehicle was adequately protected.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a car registered without insurance?
In most states, you cannot register a car without providing proof of insurance. Insurance coverage is typically required to legally operate a vehicle on public roads.
Can I get a tag without insurance?
No, you generally cannot obtain a vehicle tag (license plate) without first showing proof of insurance. Tags are issued to vehicles that comply with all legal requirements, including insurance coverage.
Can I get car insurance before registration?
Yes, you can purchase car insurance before registering your vehicle. Many insurance companies allow you to start coverage as soon as you have the necessary vehicle information.
Can you get a car registration without insurance?
In most states, you cannot complete the car registration process without providing proof of insurance. Insurance is required to ensure that vehicles on the road are covered in case of accidents.
Can you get car tags without insurance?
No, you typically cannot receive car tags (license plates) without first presenting proof of insurance. States require insurance coverage to protect drivers and others on the road.
Can you get insurance before registration?
Yes, you can obtain car insurance before registering your vehicle. Insurance companies often allow you to initiate coverage as soon as you purchase a vehicle and intend to drive it.
Can you register a car without insurance in Florida?
No, Florida requires proof of insurance before a vehicle can be registered. This requirement ensures that all vehicles on the road are covered in case of accidents.
Can you register a car without insurance in Massachusetts?
No, Massachusetts also mandates proof of insurance before a vehicle can be registered. Insurance coverage must be secured to comply with state regulations.
Do you have to be the registered owner of a vehicle to insure it?
Generally, yes. Insurance companies typically require the policyholder to have an insurable interest in the vehicle, which often means being the registered owner.
Do you have to get car insurance before registration?
Yes, in most states, you must have car insurance before you can complete the vehicle registration process. Insurance is essential to ensure financial protection in case of accidents.
Do you need proof of insurance to register a car?
Yes, proof of insurance is typically required to register a car. This requirement helps verify that vehicles on the road are covered in the event of accidents or other incidents.
Do you need registration for insurance?
No, you do not need vehicle registration to purchase car insurance. However, insurance companies may require vehicle information to issue a policy accurately.
Do you need to get insurance before registering a car?
Yes, in most cases, you must obtain car insurance before registering your vehicle. This requirement ensures that all vehicles on the road are adequately insured.
What do you need first, insurance or registration?
You generally need insurance before registration. Most states require proof of insurance as part of the registration process to ensure vehicles on the road are covered.
When you register a car, do you need insurance?
Yes, you typically need to have car insurance when you register a vehicle. Proof of insurance is often required as part of the registration process in most states.
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Michael Vereecke
Commercial Lines Coverage Specialist
Michael Vereecke is the president of Customers First Insurance Group. He has been a licensed insurance agent for over 13 years. He also carries a Commercial Lines Coverage Specialist (CLCS) Designation, providing him the expertise to spot holes in businesses’ coverage. Since 2009, he has worked with many insurance providers, giving him unique insight into the insurance market, differences in ...
Commercial Lines Coverage Specialist
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