Joint Car Insurance for Married & Unmarried Couples

Couples can opt to purchase a joint car insurance policy, whether they’re married or not. Usually, a joint policy is best suited for those who live together or frequently drive each other’s vehicles.

However, you also have the option to have separate coverages and add a driver to your existing car insurance plan. You can use MoneyGeek’s car insurance tool to determine whether a joint policy is cost-effective.

Our guide explores when combining insurance is a good idea, when it’s not and what to do if you have a joint policy but you and your partner go your separate ways.

• Unmarried Joint Car Insurance
• When Not to Add a Partner
• Married Joint Car Insurance
• Frequently Asked Questions

Couples can purchase joint car insurance even if they are unmarried. However, most car insurance companies require that they must be living together to do so. Combining insurance policies may not be an option if you don't.

Permissive use is typically enough for couples living in separate houses. It ensures your policy protects your partner when they drive your car.

Insurers only require you and your partner to have the same residential address to add them to your policy. The table below shows other situations when combining insurance may be the best option for you besides living together.

Typically, you can only add your partner if you live under the same roof. But even if you live together, joint car insurance shouldn't be a given. You may want to consider other factors to decide if it's the best move.

For example, you may want to reconsider if your partner has a bad driving record. The same applies if they have a poor credit score or own an expensive car. All these may result in a higher annual premium.

First, contact your provider to add your partner to your policy. Ask about the process and the requirements because these may vary between carriers. Provide your partner's information and wait for the insurer to approve your application and update your policy.

If you're married, insurers may see you as more financially stable and risk-averse. As a result, you're more likely to get affordable rates.

Remember, you and your spouse don't necessarily have to have joint car insurance. However, it often makes sense because it can be the most affordable option. You'll likely combine your policies, especially when you live together.

Even if your spouse has poor credit standing or violations on their driving record, combining car insurance often comes out cheaper than maintaining separate policies.

You may wonder what happens to joint car insurance if you and your partner decide to part ways. First, see who ends up with the car post-breakup. If it's you, inform your provider that your partner is no longer a driver, and your policy shouldn't cover them in the future.

If your partner gets the car and takes you off the policy, don't worry — you can always sign up for a new one. However, you may not qualify for the same discounts you had under a joint policy. It's best to contact your carrier and get an estimate. This way, a higher premium won't surprise you.

Here are some common questions people ask about car insurance for couples. These can help you decide if it's your best option.