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How can I buy car insurance before buying a car?

I'm hoping to get all my insurance needs settled before I get a new car just to be on the safe side. How do I buy insurance before buying a car?

avatar
Nick Kunze · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
“If you want to drive right of the lot, get a
car insurance
policy before you buy your new car, especially if you’re buying from a dealer or financing the car. Most dealerships and lenders won’t allow you to take possession of the car until you show proof of insurance, so a proactive approach to insurance is a smart move.
You’ll need to have personal information and the make and model of the car you plan to buy. You should also learn what
minimum car insurance coverage
is required in your state, as well as what
types of coverage
are best for your needs. This will vary whether you’re financing the vehicle or purchase it with cash.
If you are buying a
second vehicle
or replacing an existing car already covered by insurance, you do not need to get a policy beforehand. Insurance policies have grace periods to add new vehicles after purchase.
After you’ve done some research and gathered the information you need, do some quote shopping to make sure you’re getting the best possible price. Use insurance broker
Jerry
to help you find the right policy for you. Then reach out to the insurance company to get your new policy started.”
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WHY YOU CAN TRUST JERRY
Jerry partners with more than 50 insurance companies, but our content is independently researched, written, and fact-checked by our team of editors and agents. We aren’t paid for reviews or other content.

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