Yes, you can get car insurance without owning a car. This type of policy is known as non-owner car insurance. It provides liability coverage when you occasionally drive vehicles you don't own, such as rental cars or a friend's car. It's designed for frequent car renters, people who use car-sharing services like Zipcar, or individuals who need to maintain continuous insurance coverage after selling a car.
A non-owner policy typically covers bodily injury liability and property damage liability, which are required by most states. This means it pays for injuries to others or damage to their property if you're at fault in an accident. It generally does not include comprehensive or collision coverage for the vehicle you're driving, so damage to that specific car wouldn't be covered.
This type of policy is a smart solution in several specific situations:
- Maintaining Continuous Coverage: A gap in your insurance history can lead to higher premiums when you eventually buy a car and need a standard policy.
- Fulfilling an SR-22/FR-44 Requirement: If you need to file an SR-22 or FR-44 form with your state due to a violation like a DUI, a non-owner policy can satisfy this requirement even without a vehicle.
- Frequent Business or Leisure Travelers: If you regularly rent cars for work or vacation, a non-owner policy can provide more robust liability protection than the rental company's basic offerings.
The cost is usually lower than a standard policy but varies based on your driving record, location, and desired coverage limits. It's crucial to shop around and speak with an insurance agent to confirm it meets your specific needs.
| Scenario | Recommended For? | Typical Coverage Included | Key Consideration |
|---|
| Renting Cars Frequently | Yes | Liability, Uninsured Motorist | Cheaper than daily rental insurance. |
| Using Car-Sharing Services | Yes | Liability | Verify service's minimum requirements. |
| Borrowing a Friend's Car | Yes | Liability | Primary coverage if friend's policy limits are exceeded. |
| Needing an SR-22 Filing | Yes | Liability | Helps reinstate driving privileges. |
| Daily Use of a Household Car | No | - | You should be listed on the owner's policy. |
