You can get temporary car insurance, also known as a short-term auto policy, by contacting specialty insurers that offer this product, either online or over the phone. It's designed for specific, brief needs like test-driving a car, borrowing a vehicle, or covering a gap between standard policies. The process is typically quick, but availability, cost, and duration vary significantly by state and provider.
The most common providers are companies that specialize in non-standard auto insurance. You'll need to provide standard information: your driver's license number, the vehicle's identification number (VIN), and the exact dates you need coverage. Underwriting—the process insurers use to evaluate risk and set your premium—happens almost instantly online. Your driving record, the vehicle type, and the coverage length directly impact the cost.
It's crucial to understand what you're buying. Some policies are true short-term contracts with full liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage. Others might be more limited, like a named-driver policy that only covers you specifically, not other potential drivers of the car. Always read the terms carefully to avoid coverage gaps.
Below is a comparison of common scenarios and typical cost ranges from major specialty insurers. These are illustrative estimates; your actual quote will differ.
| Scenario | Typical Coverage Length | Average Cost Range (Total Premium) | Key Considerations |
|---|
| Test Driving a Car | 1-7 days | $15 - $75 | Required by some dealerships for unaccompanied test drives. |
| Borrowing a Friend's Car | 1 day to 1 month | $10 - $50 per day | Often cheaper than adding you to the owner's long-term policy. |
| Gap Coverage (Moving, etc.) | 1 week to 6 months | $25 - $150 per month | Covers you between selling an old car and buying a new one. |
| Driving a New Purchase Home | 1-2 days | $20 - $60 | Provides immediate coverage before your standard policy starts. |
| Excluded Driver Needing Coverage | 1 month | $100 - $300+ | For drivers who cannot be added to a primary household policy. |
The most straightforward way to start is by getting online quotes from a few specialty insurers to compare prices and terms for your specific situation.
