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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Jeff Root
Licensed Insurance Agent
Jeff is a well-known speaker and expert in insurance and financial planning. He has spoken at top insurance conferences around the U.S., including the InsuranceNewsNet Super Conference, the 8% Nation Insurance Wealth Conference, and the Digital Life Insurance Agent Mastermind. He has been featured and quoted in Nerdwallet, Bloomberg, Forbes, U.S. News & Money, USA Today, and other leading fina...
Licensed Insurance Agent
UPDATED: Nov 27, 2023
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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: Nov 27, 2023
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.
On This Page
- 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
Car insurance is one of those products you can only avoid purchasing if you choose to never own a car.
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.
After you compare pricing, you’ll have to apply for the policy and provide all of the detailed information that your agent asks for.
You don’t have to provide a stack full of documents to get an auto quote, but you do need to provide some information that can only be found in reports when you apply for coverage.
Read More: How to Get Auto Insurance
If you are trying to get prepared so you can buy insurance, here are some of the documents that you need in your file so that you can answer every question correctly.
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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 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 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.
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?
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.
Agents 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. Some of the 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
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What details do I need for auto insurance?
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.
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?
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. 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.
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What information must I provide for my auto insurance quote?
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.
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.
Here are some specifics an underwriter may need:
- 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?
It’s going to be hard to remember the specifics of all this information. Luckily, there are documents you can request in advance to ensure the full accuracy of your history.
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. 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.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What documents are typically required to obtain auto 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 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?
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. 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?
Yes, 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. 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?
Yes, 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.
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Enter your ZIP code below to view companies that have cheap auto insurance rates.
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Jeff Root
Licensed Insurance Agent
Jeff is a well-known speaker and expert in insurance and financial planning. He has spoken at top insurance conferences around the U.S., including the InsuranceNewsNet Super Conference, the 8% Nation Insurance Wealth Conference, and the Digital Life Insurance Agent Mastermind. He has been featured and quoted in Nerdwallet, Bloomberg, Forbes, U.S. News & Money, USA Today, and other leading fina...
Licensed Insurance Agent
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.