Yes, you can absolutely get car insurance without owning a car. The most common solution is a non-owner car insurance policy. This type of policy provides liability coverage when you occasionally drive a vehicle you don't own, such as a rental car or a friend's car. It's designed for people who frequently borrow cars but aren't the primary owner of any vehicle.
A non-owner policy is particularly relevant in several situations. If you use car-sharing services like Zipcar or Turo regularly, this policy can fill coverage gaps. It's also crucial for individuals who have a suspended license and need to file an SR-22 or FR-44 form with their state to prove financial responsibility for reinstatement. Furthermore, if you're between cars but want to avoid a lapse in your insurance history—which can lead to higher premiums when you buy a car later—a non-owner policy maintains continuous coverage.
However, it's critical to understand what this insurance does not cover. It typically excludes comprehensive and collision coverage, meaning damages to the car you're driving aren't covered. Those protections are usually the responsibility of the vehicle's owner's policy. Non-owner policies also won't cover vehicles you have regular access to, like a car owned by someone in your household.
| Scenario | Recommended Policy Type | Key Coverage Provided |
|---|
| Frequent rental car user | Non-Owner Policy | Liability, sometimes Medical Payments |
| Using car-sharing services (Zipcar/Turo) | Non-Owner Policy or Service's Policy | Supplemental Liability |
| Reinstating a suspended license | Non-Owner SR-22 Policy | State-mandated Liability |
| Borrowing a friend's car occasionally | Primarily covered by friend's policy | Non-owner policy acts as secondary/excess |
Before purchasing, compare quotes from major insurers like GEICO, State Farm, and Progressive, as offering non-owner policies varies. The cost is generally lower than standard insurance but depends on your driving record and coverage limits.
