Can I Get Auto Insurance Without a Car?

Non-owner car insurance is a cost-effective option for licensed drivers who regularly drive but don't own a vehicle. Unlike personal auto insurance, which covers a specific vehicle, non-owner policies cover the driver, regardless of the car they're in. This kind of insurance primarily offers liability coverage, protecting against damage to other cars, not your own. It's also a suitable choice for drivers who:

• often rent or borrow cars
• frequently rent cars
• need to provide proof of insurance, such as with an SR-22 requirement
• want to maintain continuous coverage

But if you regularly borrow a family member or roommate's car, it might be better to add your name to a family policy. And if you rarely borrow cars, you might not need to get your own policy at all.

Non-owner car insurance, sometimes called non-drivers insurance, offers coverage for licensed drivers who don't own a car. Unlike traditional auto insurance that's tied to a specific vehicle, non-owner insurance is all about the driver. So, even without a car listed on your policy, you're protected as you navigate the roads. Think of it this way: while personal auto insurance sticks to the vehicle, non-owner insurance sticks to you, the driver.

Non-owner car insurance is tailor-made for individuals who frequently rent cars or borrow vehicles from friends and family but don't have a car of their own. It's also a go-to choice for those who mainly rely on public transport but occasionally find themselves behind the wheel. If you're someone looking to reinstate a suspended license and need to show proof of insurance — or you're in a transition phase between selling and buying cars — this insurance can be a lifesaver.

This policy primarily offers liability coverage, safeguarding you against damages to other people's property or potential injuries you might cause while driving. Some policies might also include uninsured/underinsured motorist protection, guaranteeing you're covered if another driver lacks adequate insurance.

• Bodily Injury Liability This covers medical expenses, lost wages and other costs associated with injuries you cause to other people while driving a borrowed or rented car.
• Property Damage Liability This covers the repair or replacement costs of another person's property (like their car) if you are at fault in an accident.
• Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Protection (optional in some states) This provides coverage if you're in an accident with a driver who doesn't have insurance or doesn't have enough insurance to cover the damages. It can cover both bodily injury and property damage.
• Personal Injury Protection (optional in some states) Also known as "no-fault" insurance, this covers your own medical expenses and, in some cases, lost wages, regardless of who was at fault in the accident.

In certain states, you can even opt for personal injury protection, covering your medical expenses irrespective of who's at fault in an accident. However, remember that non-owner insurance typically won't cover damages to the vehicle you're driving and comprehensive or collision coverage is usually off the table. Align your coverage with your unique driving habits and requirements.

Non-owner car insurance policies typically don't cover damages to the car you're driving, whether from accidents, theft or other causes. They also won't cover personal items stolen or damaged in the car or reimburse for rental cars if the borrowed vehicle is in the shop.

The coverage scope of non-owner car insurance is limited compared to standard car insurance policies. If you frequently use a specific car, such as a family member's, it's best to be listed on that car's primary insurance, as non-owner policies aren't meant for regular use of the same vehicle.

MoneyGeek found that, on average, a non-owner car insurance policy may cost you:

• Minimum Liability: Auto-Owners Insurance Co ($285 per year)
• Full Coverage with $500 deductible: Auto-Owners Insurance Co ($546 per year)
• Full Coverage with $1,000 deductible: Auto-Owners Insurance Co ($546)

GEICO is a close second for all types of coverage.

While USAA offers affordable premiums — eligibility is limited to military members, veterans and their families.

Farmers offers the most expensive policies across the board.

Change the filters on the table below to find the best coverage and best price that suits your insurance needs.

Non-owner car insurance is a versatile solution for various driving scenarios. Whether you're a frequent renter or borrower seeking extra protection, in a transition period without a car, needing to reinstate a suspended license or looking for coverage beyond basic rental insurance, non-owner car insurance can provide the coverage you need.

Sometimes, it might be better to add your name to a family policy or include yourself as a listed driver in your roommate’s car insurance policy. And in other cases, you might not need to get your own policy at all and still legally drive with coverage.

However, it's essential to note that the extent of coverage under the permissive use clause can vary between insurance companies and policies. Some offer full coverage, while others only provide limited protection. It's always a good idea to check with the car owner's insurance provider to understand the specifics.

Personal auto insurance covers your car and often includes extra protections, making it more expensive. In contrast, non-owner car insurance focuses on protecting the driver from damages to others and is typically cheaper.

While non-owner car insurance is a valuable tool for many drivers without cars, there are other ways to ensure you're protected on the road. Always assess your driving habits, frequency, how much car insurance you need and the vehicles you'll be using to determine the best coverage option for your situation.