What documents do you need to get auto insurance?
Make sure you have all your paperwork together when applying for auto insurance coverage. This includes your driver's license, any current insurance information, and vehicle information.
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Kalyn Johnson
Insurance Claims Support & Sr. Adjuster
Kalyn grew up in an insurance family with a grandfather, aunt, and uncle leading successful careers as insurance agents. She soon found she has similar interests and followed in their footsteps. After spending about ten years working in the insurance industry as both an appraiser dispatcher and a senior property claims adjuster, she decided to combine her years of insurance experience with another...
Insurance Claims Support & Sr. Adjuster
UPDATED: Sep 5, 2024
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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 5, 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.
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Car insurance is one of those products you can only avoid purchasing if you choose to never own a car. Since that doesn’t apply to most people, you may wonder what do you need to get car insurance? Or, more specifically, what documents do I need for car insurance?
If you want to enjoy the freedom that owning a car offers you, you’re going to have to solicit auto insurance quotes and choose which quote is best for you and your budget. That means you will have to answer the question, what documents do I need to get insurance on a car?
After you compare pricing, you’ll have to apply for the policy and provide all of the detailed information that your agent asks for.
There’s not a stack full of documents needed to get car insurance quotes, but you do need to provide some information that can only be found in reports when you fill out an auto insurance application.
If you are trying to get prepared so you can buy insurance, here are some of the documents needed for car insurance that you should have on file so you can answer every question correctly.
Once you know what documents you need for car insurance, compare car insurance quotes today, and stop overpaying for coverage. Enter your ZIP code above to get started.
- When you’re getting quotes to compare auto insurance you can provide basic information so that the company can give you estimates
- The more accurate the information that you provide, the more accurate your quote estimates will be
- When you apply for insurance, having the documents that the insurer requests on standby is a must
- You’ll need to provide a copy of your driver’s license, a driving abstract from states you were previously licensed in, and a copy of your foreign license if you’re currently licensed out of the county
- If you’ve been licensed by another company before, you may need to provide your declarations page or a Letter of Experience to get credits and to show that you’re claim-free
Why do you need to get auto insurance quotes?
An auto insurance quote is an estimate that gives consumers the information that they need to decide on a carrier. Since insurance premiums are based on so many different rating factors, everyone’s rates are different.
The only way that you can really shop the market is to solicit automobile insurance quotes and compare them.
When you’re getting insurance quotes, you need to provide some of your personal information. The only way that you can go about getting an accurate quote is to provide information about you, your vehicle, and your driving habits. You may ask what are 5 types of information you will be asked to provide for an insurance quote?
Well, you don’t need to show an agent any documents if you’re just getting a casual quote, but you do need to provide accurate answers to the best of your knowledge. But what information do you need to get car insurance quotes?
Virtually all personal auto insurance companies will ask for the same basic information to give you estimates.
This is the information that’s needed to put you in a rate class and to give you all of the discounts that you’re eligible for. If you’ve never gotten a quote by phone or online, here’s some of the information you’re going to have to provide:
- Age, sex, years licensed, and type of license each driver in the household holds
- The year, make, and model of cars in the home
- The number of drivers and which vehicles they will be assigned to
- The coverage options for each vehicle in the home
- How many miles each car is driven and how the vehicle is used
- ZIP code where the vehicle is parked
- Whether or not your drivers under 25 are eligible for Good Student Discounts
- Credit score
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Why do you need more information to apply for insurance?
But what information does insurance need for car insurance quotes? You may be happy to know that you can get quotes for free as long as you’re not doing business with a brokerage that charges a brokerage fee. After you get your free quotes, the next step is completing an application.
It’s much like getting a pre-approval for a loan and then having to provide detailed information when you’re ready to apply.
Although insurance agents can help you learn how to apply for car insurance, they don’t ask you everything when you’re getting quotes because it can extend how long it takes to give you the pricing information that you need.
Since a lot of the details you need to provide won’t change the insurance rate, you won’t be asked for all of the details right away.
Much of the information that you provide it so that the insurer can verify the picture that you’re painting. They need to look at your records and history to fact check. When looking for auto insurance, documents that you should have to complete the application include:
- Driver’s licenses for all drivers
- The title of each vehicle
- The loss payee clause for financed cars
- Claims Loss History letter
- Your current declarations page
- A canceled check EFT payments
Enter your ZIP code below to get customized quotes from top local insurance providers. You can also verify what documents do you need for car insurance depending on what provider you want to work with for purchasing.
What details do I need for auto insurance?
What info does insurance need for car insurance quotes? To get an auto insurance quote, you must provide your date of birth, license number, accident details, and vehicle information.
- Auto insurance products are priced like standard consumer goods. Since the rates are based on risk, everyone’s premiums are personalized
- To get an auto insurance quote, you must provide accurate information and honest answers
- The most common information you must provide includes: date of birth, license number, conviction dates, accident dates, vehicle information, household members, vehicle usage, annual mileage, and other information
- When you apply for coverage, the insurance carrier will ask you for more detailed answers
- It’s possible for your auto insurance quote to change after underwriting if new information is discovered by the underwriter
Getting auto insurance quotes can be a time-consuming process when you’re not prepared. Since an auto insurance policy is a legally-binding contract, the insurer asks for a lot of information to ensure the company isn’t taking on the wrong risks.
If you’d like to shop around for auto insurance, preparation is the key. By gathering all of the documents and information that you need before you start the process, you can save both time and money. One document required for car insurance is your drivers license, but there are other additional documents for car insurance that you should have on hand.
You start getting quotes today by entering your zip code in our FREE comparison tool!
What is the difference between a quote and an application?
You might ask yourself, what do I need to get insurance on a car? What documents do I need to get car insurance quotes? Is there a difference? A car insurance quote is an estimate of what your auto insurance rate might be through a specific carrier.
Since all carriers weigh factors differently, shopping around for several different quotes is necessary to find the best rates.
While comparison shopping is necessary, the estimates that you receive aren’t binding.
You must submit an application for coverage – once that application is fully underwritten, you’ll see your actual rate for the term. And before that point, your insurance provider can help to answer the question, “what do I need to get car insurance?” It’s possible to be quoted a rate and then to receive a bill with a higher rate after the 30- or 60-day underwriting period once your required documents for car insurance are reviewed by the insurance provider.
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What information must I provide for my auto insurance quote?
So you want to know, what documents do you need to get car insurance quotes? Well, when you’re soliciting auto insurance quotes, most companies will ask you for the same pieces of information. This information helps the agent place you in a rate class.
If you are dishonest about your habits or history, you can easily be misquoted. When you are trying to find good car insurance, required documents need to be accurately represented.
You should be prepared to give the following information:
- Your full name, date of birth, and marital status
- How many years you’ve been licensed in the US or internationally
- Your vehicle year, make, model, and safety features
- The territory where your vehicle is garaged
- Your driving record and accident history for the preceding 3 to 5 years
- Vehicle uses and annual mileage estimates
- Household members and licensing information for those who have access to your vehicle
- Occupation and professional affiliations
- Good student information and driver training for drivers under 25
- Property ownership information
- Credit rating
- Whether or not you have prior insurance
Additional Information for an Application
While the above list is a lot of information, most of it is information you’d know off the top of your head. However, once you submit an application a company will ask for more specific information. What is needed to get car insurance may also vary depending on the provider.
Here is other info needed for car insurance underwriters:
- The VIN of each vehicle that you’re covering
- Possibly the odometer of each vehicle
- Mailing address
- Actual annual mileage estimates
- The number of miles in your daily commute
- The dates of past moving violations
- The dates of major driving infractions like a DUI or reckless driving conviction in the last seven to ten years
- The dates of at-fault accidents within the last three years
- The name and address of loss payees or lessors
- The name of your prior carrier with coverage dates
- Mature driver training dates and certificates for senior drivers
- Driver training certificates for younger operators
What documents can help you get the information that you need?
So you need to know, what documents do I need to insure my car? It’s going to be hard to remember the specifics of quotes for car insurance and the documents required. Luckily, there are documents you can request in advance to ensure the full accuracy of your history.
We can help you learn what documents are required for car insurance. Here are some documents you may want to prepare before applying for auto insurance:
A Letter of Experience
A letter of experience does two different things. First, it shows the insurer you’ve had prior insurance with a carrier. Second, it helps remove errors from your claims history. Ask your previous insurer to draft a letter of experience for you.
Your Declarations Page
A declarations page will show you how you’re being rated with your current insurer. If you don’t know what limits you’re carrying, or if you don’t know your loss payee clause, you can find all of this on your current declarations page. Don’t confuse the declarations page for your insurance ID card.
Your Banking Information
Some insurance companies offer automatic withdrawals. To set this up, be sure to have a canceled check or your account number on hand when applying.
Your Prior Driver License Number or Driving Abstract
For drivers who have been licensed in other states, it’s important to have prior licensing information. A driver abstract or your old licensing information will demonstrate your previous experience to your insurer.
The more information you have, the better. What documents do you need to insure a car? Now you know what documents are needed to insure a car, and if you have everything that you need for quotes, start shopping around now.
Size up the coverage that you have now and then modify it if necessary. Enter your zip code in our FREE comparison tool to get started!
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Frequently Asked Questions
What documents are typically required to obtain auto insurance?
So, what documents are required for vehicle insurance? When applying for auto insurance, you will generally need the following documents:
Vehicle Information:
- Vehicle registration or title: This document proves that you are the owner of the vehicle.
- Vehicle identification number (VIN): A unique code assigned to your vehicle for identification purposes.
Driver’s Information:
- Driver’s license: A valid driver’s license is essential for insuring the primary driver of the vehicle.
- Social Security number: Some insurers may require your Social Security number for identification and risk assessment.
Proof of Address:
- Proof of residence: This could be a utility bill, lease agreement, or any official document that shows your current address.
- Motor vehicle record (MVR): Your MVR provides details about your driving history, including any past accidents, traffic violations, or claims.
- Claims history: If you have made previous auto insurance claims, having the relevant details on hand will be beneficial.
Other Documents:
- Financial information: Insurers might ask for information about your income or credit score, as it can influence your premium rate.
- Existing insurance policy: If you’re switching insurers, having your current policy details can help in the transition.
It’s important to note that what you need to get car insurance and the specific document requirements may vary depending on your location, insurance company, and individual circumstances.
Contact your insurance provider directly to confirm the exact documentation needed for your auto insurance application.
Can I purchase auto insurance without a driver’s license?
So, if you don’t have a drivers license, you might ask, what do you need to put insurance on a car? Generally, most insurance companies require a valid driver’s license to provide auto insurance coverage. Having a driver’s license is seen as proof that you are legally allowed to operate a vehicle. If you don’t have a driver’s license, it may be challenging to find an insurer willing to provide coverage.
However, some insurers offer special policies for individuals who don’t have a driver’s license but need coverage for a vehicle they own, such as a collector’s car or a vehicle used exclusively for off-road purposes. If that’s your situation, you probably want to know, what do I need to put insurance on my car?
These policies may have limitations, so it’s best to consult with insurance companies directly to explore your options.
Are there any age restrictions for obtaining auto insurance?
The legal driving age varies by jurisdiction, but in most places, individuals need to be at least 16 or 18 years old to obtain a driver’s license and qualify for auto insurance. However, age restrictions for purchasing auto insurance policies directly may vary among insurance companies. Some insurers may not provide coverage to individuals under a certain age or may impose higher premiums for young and inexperienced drivers due to the increased risk associated with this demographic.
It’s advisable to contact insurance providers in your area to understand their specific policies regarding age restrictions.
Do I need to provide my Social Security number to get auto insurance?
While not all insurance companies require your Social Security number (SSN) to provide auto insurance, many may ask for it during the application process. Insurers may use your SSN for identification purposes, as well as to assess risk factors such as your credit history. Your credit score can impact your insurance premium, so providing your SSN allows the insurer to evaluate this aspect. If you have concerns about providing your SSN, you can inquire with the insurance company if there are alternative ways to verify your identity or assess risk.
Do I need to provide proof of vehicle ownership when applying for auto insurance?
If you are googling, “car insurance near me,” you are probably also asking, what do I need to get a car insurance quote? You will typically need to provide proof of vehicle ownership when applying for auto insurance. This can be in the form of a vehicle registration document or title. These documents establish that you are the rightful owner of the vehicle you want to insure.
Can I get auto insurance if I don’t own a vehicle?
Yes, it is possible to obtain auto insurance even if you don’t own a vehicle. Non-owner car insurance is a type of coverage designed for individuals who frequently drive but don’t have their own vehicle. This insurance provides liability coverage when driving a borrowed or rented vehicle.
When you are wondering, what do you need to get insurance if you don’t own a car, this coverage could be for you. It’s a good option for individuals who frequently use car-sharing services or borrow vehicles from friends or family.
Can I apply for auto insurance online without submitting physical documents?
When you’re looking for car insurance online, you need to know what info does car insurance need? Many insurance companies offer the option to apply for auto insurance online, allowing you to submit digital copies of the required documents. You can usually upload scanned copies or clear photographs of the documents through their website or mobile app.
However, some insurers may require physical copies of the documents for verification purposes or if you prefer to apply in person. It’s recommended to check with your insurance provider to understand their specific document submission process.
What happens if I don’t have a driving record or claims history?
If you don’t have a driving record or claims history, it means you are a new or inexperienced driver. In such cases, insurers may consider you as having a clean driving record, but they may still classify you as a higher risk due to lack of driving history. Insurance companies often base premium rates on factors such as age, location, and driving experience. As a new driver, you may face higher insurance premiums until you establish a positive driving history.
Can I get auto insurance with an international driver’s license?
The acceptance of international driver’s licenses for auto insurance coverage varies among insurance companies. Some insurers may offer coverage to individuals with a valid international driver’s license, while others may require you to obtain a local driver’s license within a specified period. It’s best to check with insurance providers directly to understand their policies regarding international driver’s licenses.
What if I have multiple drivers using the same vehicle? Do I need to provide their documents too?
If you have multiple drivers who will be using the insured vehicle, most insurance companies will require their driver’s license information and driving history. Each driver’s details are needed to assess the risk associated with insuring the vehicle. You may need to provide the driver’s license numbers, dates of birth, and driving histories for all drivers who will regularly operate the vehicle.
What are four pieces of information you must have when shopping for auto insurance?
When you start looking for car insurance, you may have several questions such as what are some things you should look for when purchasing insurance? What are 4 things you should look at when choosing an insurance plan? What’s the best car insurance coverage to have? Different aspects of insurance policies will vary according to each drivers’ specific circumstances. The main parts of car insurance that you should look for depend on your vehicle information and driving history.
What’s the best car insurance coverage to have?
A lot of drivers wonder, which type of car insurance is best? And some drivers might even have to ask, what is the best insurance for high-risk drivers? The best coverage for you will depend on individual factors, but typical coverage options including liability as well as comprehensive and collision coverage.
Who typically has the cheapest car insurance?
When it comes to the price of insurance, you may find yourself asking questions such as which brand of car has the cheapest insurance? How much is the average car insurance per month in North Carolina? At what age is car insurance cheapest? The price of auto insurance varies because each driver’s situation will vary. Location, driving history, age, and even gender impacts insurance rates.
What are the 3 typical requirements in an insurance policy?
So you want to know, what are the requirements of insurance? What insurance is usually required? Again, the specifics of required car insurance will depend on where you live as well as your driving history. Every state has minimum insurance requirements, so check with an insurance provider before driving.
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Enter your ZIP code below to view companies that have cheap auto insurance rates.
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Kalyn Johnson
Insurance Claims Support & Sr. Adjuster
Kalyn grew up in an insurance family with a grandfather, aunt, and uncle leading successful careers as insurance agents. She soon found she has similar interests and followed in their footsteps. After spending about ten years working in the insurance industry as both an appraiser dispatcher and a senior property claims adjuster, she decided to combine her years of insurance experience with another...
Insurance Claims Support & Sr. Adjuster
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.