To get an accurate car insurance quote, you'll need to provide three main categories of information: personal details, vehicle-specific information, and your desired coverage. Having this information ready before you start shopping will make the process much faster and ensure the quotes you receive are as precise as possible.
Personal & Driver Information
This is all about you and the other drivers in your household. Insurers use this to assess risk.
- Full Legal Name and Date of Birth: Your age is a significant rating factor.
- Driver's License Number: To verify your driving record.
- Address & Garaging Zip Code: Rates vary dramatically by state, city, and even neighborhood based on local traffic, theft rates, and accident statistics.
- Social Security Number: Used for a soft credit check in most states, as credit-based insurance scores are correlated with risk. Not required for initial online quotes but often needed to bind the policy.
- Occupation and Education Level: Some professions and higher education levels can qualify you for discounts.
Vehicle Information
You'll need your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), which is a unique 17-digit code. This is the best way to provide accurate data, as it automatically tells the insurer the exact make, model, trim, engine size, and safety features of your car. You'll also be asked about:
- Primary Use: Commuting, business, pleasure, or farm use.
- Annual Mileage: Drivers with lower annual mileage often pay less.
- Current Condition & Modifications: Any aftermarket parts or customizations must be disclosed.
Coverage & History Details
This defines what you're buying and your experience as a driver.
- Current Insurance Details: Your policy declarations page, which shows your current coverage limits and deductibles.
- Driving History: Details of any recent accidents, tickets, or claims.
- Desired Coverage Levels: The types and amounts of coverage you want (e.g., state minimums, higher liability limits, comprehensive, collision).
The table below outlines some of the key data points and why they matter for your premium.
| Information Required | Why It's Important | Example / Impact on Premium |
|---|
| Driver's Age | Statistically, younger drivers are involved in more accidents. | A 20-year-old may pay 150% more than a 40-year-old with the same record. |
| Driving Record (3-5 yrs) | Tickets and at-fault accidents indicate higher risk. | One speeding ticket can increase premiums by 20-30% on average. |
| Vehicle Make & Model | Repair costs, theft rates, and safety ratings vary by vehicle. | Insuring a sports car costs significantly more than a family sedan. |
| Credit-Based Insurance Score | In most states, a higher score correlates with lower risk. | A poor score can double your premium compared to an excellent one. |
| Annual Mileage | More miles driven equals a higher chance of an accident. | Driving 5,000 miles a year vs. 15,000 can lead to a 10-15% discount. |
| Coverage Deductible | The amount you pay out-of-pocket before insurance kicks in. | Choosing a $1,000 deductible over a $500 one can lower your premium. |
| Garaging Zip Code | Factors in local accident frequency, theft, and vandalism rates. | Urban zip codes often have premiums 50% higher than rural ones. |
