can you get auto insurance on a used car

[ClaytonAnn]

Yes, you can and absolutely should get auto insurance for a used car. In fact, it's a legal requirement in nearly every state to have at least a minimum amount of liability coverage before you can legally drive it on public roads. The process is virtually identical to insuring a new car. You'll provide the vehicle's VIN (Vehicle Identification Number), make, model, year, mileage, and your personal details to an insurance provider for a quote.

The cost of insuring a used car is often lower than for a new one, primarily because used cars have a lower actual cash value (ACV), which is the amount an insurer would pay out if the car is totaled. However, premiums are influenced by many factors beyond the car's value. These include the car's safety record, theft rates, repair costs, your driving history, credit score (in most states), and your location.

You'll choose from the same standard coverage types:

• Liability Insurance: Covers injuries and property damage you cause to others (mandatory).
• Collision Coverage: Pays for damage to your own car from an accident.
• Comprehensive Coverage: Covers non-collision events like theft, vandalism, or weather damage.
• Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage: Protects you if you're hit by a driver with little or no insurance.

If you have a loan or lease on the used car, the lender will require you to carry both collision and comprehensive coverage. For an older used car you own outright, you might consider dropping these to save money, but only if you can afford to repair or replace the vehicle yourself.

Factor Influencing Used Car Insurance Premium	Example Data/Explanation
Vehicle's Actual Cash Value (ACV)	A 2018 Honda Civic ($18,000 ACV) will be cheaper to insure than a 2023 Honda Civic ($26,000 ACV).
Vehicle Safety Rating (IIHS)	A model with a Top Safety Pick+ rating may qualify for discounts.
Cost of Parts & Labor	Luxury brands (e.g., BMW, Mercedes) often have higher repair costs than mainstream brands (e.g., Toyota, Ford).
Theft Rates (HLDI)	Models with higher-than-average theft rates will have higher comprehensive premiums.
Your Driving Record	A clean record for 3+ years can significantly lower your premium compared to having a recent at-fault accident.
Annual Mileage	Driving 7,500 miles per year may be cheaper to insure than driving 15,000 miles.
Deductible Amount	Choosing a $1,000 deductible instead of a $500 deductible will lower your premium.

The best approach is to shop around and get quotes from multiple insurers. Provide the exact VIN for the most accurate rate, as it reveals specific details about the car's features and history.

[OValerie]

Sure can. It's actually required by law. The moment you drive that used car off the lot, you need to have at least the state minimum liability coverage in place. I'd recommend calling your insurance agent before you buy to get a quote. It's a quick process—just have the VIN ready. The price is usually better than for a new car, which is a nice bonus.

[BrielleDella]

Absolutely. Insuring a used car is standard practice. The main difference from a new car is the potential coverage you might choose. On an older car you own outright, you could opt for just liability coverage to save money, accepting the risk of repairing the car yourself if something happens. But if you're financing it, the bank will require full coverage until the loan is paid off. Always compare quotes.

[OKing]

Of course. The process is the same: you get quotes based on the car and your driving history. A key tip is to consider the car's value versus the cost of full coverage. For a decade-old sedan worth $5,000, paying $1,200 a year for comprehensive and collision might not make financial sense. You could save by carrying only liability, but you're then self-insuring for damage to your own vehicle. It's a calculated risk.