Do I need insurance for a car I don’t drive? (2024 Coverage Answers)

Maintaining insurance on a car you’re not driving is often necessary. Even if it’s parked or in storage, a registered vehicle may still require coverage by law to avoid fines and stay protected from risks like theft or weather damage.

Some insurers offer comprehensive-only options to cover your vehicle while it’s not in use, and you may even qualify for auto insurance discounts to lower your premium. Keep reading to explore coverage options for stored cars and ways to meet state requirements without overspending.

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State Insurance Laws for Vehicles Not in Use

All states except New Hampshire require auto insurance to legally operate a vehicle, even if you rarely drive it. The minimum coverage you need depends on your state’s laws, though some states allow you to show proof of financial responsibility instead. It’s also worth considering comprehensive car insurance, which offers added protection against theft, vandalism, and weather-related damage.

In most cases, whether you need to insure your car if you’re not driving it depends on your state’s minimum insurance requirements and registration status. If the car is unused, you may be able to cancel your registration to avoid coverage—but keep in mind that letting registration lapse can come with penalties.

Compare Non-Owner Car Insurance Rates at a Glance

If you’re shopping for non-owner car insurance, prices can range from $28 to $38 per month, depending on the provider. USAA offers the lowest rate at $28, while Farmers sits at the higher end with $38.

Non-Owner Car Insurance Rates by Provider

Insurance Company	Monthly Rate
	$35
	$32
	$38
	$29
	$36
	$31
	$37
	$33
	$34
	$28

Geico, Nationwide, and State Farm offer mid-range plans that work for a variety of budgets. If you don’t drive often, it’s a good idea to explore your options and find the best car insurance company for infrequent drivers. A little comparison shopping can help you snag the right coverage without paying more than necessary.

Affordable Options for Occasional Drivers

If you don’t drive much, insurance rates can vary quite a bit. USAA has the lowest option at $24 a month, while Liberty Mutual lands on the pricier side at $33.

Liability Car Insurance Cost for Infrequent Drivers by Provider

Insurance Company	Monthly Rate
	$32
	$26
	$31
	$25
	$33
	$29
	$30
	$28
	$27
	$24

Geico, State Farm, and Nationwide offer plans that sit in the middle, typically ranging from $25 to $30 a month.

It’s smart to compare your options to find a deal that fits your budget while still meeting your car insurance requirements. That way, you get the coverage you need without overspending.

Securing Comprehensive Coverage for Stored Vehicles in Winter

To cover only the risks to the vehicle while it is in storage, you want to have affordable comprehensive auto insurance coverage. To save on costs, consider using temporary car insurance or putting certain coverages on hold if your state allows it while your vehicle is in storage.

Comprehensive Coverage Claims for Vehicles in Storage

Wondering what kind of insurance covers a car in storage? Comprehensive auto insurance is often the best choice, covering claims like theft, weather damage, and more—depending on your policy’s specifics.

• Fire: Damage to the vehicle caused by a fire.
• Water: Damage to the car caused by a flood.
• Vandalism: Damage to the vehicle caused by vandals, such as keying the paint job.
• Theft: Loss or damage to the car caused by theft.
• Pests: Damage caused by animals, such as destruction of the upholstery.

When it comes to insurance for a car in storage, review your policy to understand what’s covered and remember that any claims will require you to pay the deductible out-of-pocket.

Risks and Rewards of Pausing Car Insurance Coverage

It might seem tempting to cancel your auto insurance during the winter if you’re not using your vehicle, but that could backfire. Instead, consider switching to parked car insurance, which can save you money without leaving you uninsured. Canceling your policy altogether could make it harder—and more expensive—to get new coverage later.

Many insurance companies offer discounts for maintaining uninterrupted auto insurance, even if you switch providers. Staying insured without any gaps and avoiding accidents over time can lead to significant savings. Knowing how to file a car insurance claim properly can also help maintain your claims-free status and keep your rates low.

Rather than cancel your coverage altogether, consider lowering it to the minimum required—this can help you save money while keeping your insurance active without interruptions.

Be Prudent When Turning Insurance On and Off

Many companies let you easily adjust your insurance for a car in storage online, sometimes without penalties, which can help save a bit on costs. Just remember to track when your coverage is active or on hold.

Letting someone drive without insurance isn’t just risky—it’s illegal in most states. For extra peace of mind, comparing the best car insurance quotes by vehicle can help you find coverage that fits your needs and budget perfectly.

You can also enter your ZIP code above into our free comparison tool to start comparing rates now.