Do you need insurance on a car that doesn’t run?
Are you wondering: "Do you need insurance on a car that doesn't run?" Most states will require you to have insurance if you want to drive and insure it in the future. You can save money by reducing coverage to the state minimum or switching to a usage-based policy.
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Daniel Walker
Licensed Auto Insurance Agent
Daniel Walker graduated with a BS in Administrative Management in 2005 and has run his family’s insurance agency, FCI Agency, for over 15 years (BBB A+). He is licensed as an insurance agent to write property and casualty insurance, including home, life, auto, umbrella, and dwelling fire insurance. He’s also been featured on sites like Reviews.com and Safeco. To ensure our content is accura...
Licensed Auto Insurance Agent
UPDATED: Jun 22, 2023
It’s all about you. We want to help you make the right coverage choices.
Advertiser Disclosure: We strive to help you make confident auto insurance decisions. Comparison shopping should be easy. We are not affiliated with any one auto insurance provider and cannot guarantee quotes from any single provider. Our partnerships don’t influence our content. Our opinions are our own. To compare quotes from many different companies please enter your ZIP code on this page to use the free quote tool. The more quotes you compare, the more chances to save.
Editorial Guidelines: We are a free online resource for anyone interested in learning more about auto insurance. Our goal is to be an objective, third-party resource for everything auto insurance related. We update our site regularly, and all content is reviewed by auto insurance experts.
UPDATED: Jun 22, 2023
It’s all about you. We want to help you make the right coverage choices.
Advertiser Disclosure: We strive to help you make confident auto insurance decisions. Comparison shopping should be easy. We are not affiliated with any one auto insurance provider and cannot guarantee quotes from any single provider. Our partnerships don’t influence our content. Our opinions are our own. To compare quotes from many different companies please enter your ZIP code on this page to use the free quote tool. The more quotes you compare, the more chances to save.
On This Page
- Most states require vehicles to remain insured whether they run or not
- It might be a good idea to get usage-based auto insurance if you need to continue insuring a car that doesn’t run
- For those without a car, non-owner auto insurance is a good option to keep you covered while driving other cars or shopping for a new car
If you have a vehicle that doesn’t run and you have full coverage auto insurance, you might wonder whether or not you should keep your insurance as is. It’s important to know whether or not you need insurance on a car that doesn’t run.
Nobody wants to overpay for auto insurance. This article will cover whether or not you should have car insurance for a car that doesn’t run, how to get auto insurance without a car, and more.
Continue scrolling to find out if you need insurance on a car that doesn’t run or enter your ZIP code above to get free quotes from the top auto insurance companies in your area.
Do you need insurance on a car that doesn’t run?
The short answer is yes, you most likely need auto insurance on a car that doesn’t run. That said, there are some shades of grey. In short, you will need auto insurance on any vehicle that you intend on driving and insuring in the future, even if it doesn’t run now.
This can be frustrating if you have an inoperable vehicle and have since bought another car to drive indefinitely. In many cases, you will be required to maintain an auto insurance policy on a car even if it is in storage.
If you have a car that doesn’t run and you’re considering your auto insurance options, you will have a few things to consider. Some of these factors include your desire to drive the vehicle in the future, the reason it’s inoperable, the state you live in, and whether or not you are driving another vehicle in the meantime.
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Do I need auto insurance if I don’t drive my car?
As mentioned previously, you will still likely need insurance on your vehicle whether it runs or not. This also means that you, as a potential driver, will need to maintain your auto insurance.
Realistically, it’s easier to just maintain your auto insurance policy considering the inconveniences of needing to reinstate an auto insurance policy last minute if something were to come up.
We get it, many people live in a city where driving is a bigger hassle than it’s worth. Even so, you would want to keep your insurance for yourself and to protect your vehicle. If you live in the city, it could be increasingly important to have comprehensive insurance on a car, even if it doesn’t run.
Between the narrow roads and excessive traffic, your car is likely exposed to many risks and could be damaged in the city streets. If your car doesn’t run but is still cosmetically appealing, you would want to keep it protected.
Do I have to register a car that doesn’t run?
You will be required to register a non-operable vehicle in most states. For example, the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles requires all vehicles to be registered and insured. Unfortunately, this would also include vehicles that don’t run.
Some states, such as California, have specific forms you can complete to acknowledge that the vehicle is inoperable. This Certified of Non-operation can be found on the Department of Motor Vehicles website and may offer some financial benefits with your insurer.
Otherwise, it’s probably best to keep your vehicle registered regardless of its ability to drive, assuming you want to drive it again in the future.
What insurance should I have on a car that doesn’t run?
While you should most likely keep your car insured, that doesn’t mean that you need the same exact insurance on the car. In fact, you will most likely want to transition to your state’s minimum auto insurance requirements.
Minimum Auto Insurance Requirements by State
| State | Minimum BI & PD Liability Limits | Required Insurance Policies |
|---|---|---|
| Alabama | 25/50/25 | BI + PD Liability |
| Alaska | 50/100/25 | BI + PD Liability |
| Arizona | 15/30/10 | BI + PD Liability |
| Arkansas | 25/50/25 | BI + PD Liability, PIP |
| California | 15/30/5 | BI + PD Liability |
| Colorado | 25/50/15 | BI + PD Liability |
| Connecticut | 25/50/20 | BI + PD Liability, UM, UIM |
| Delaware | 25/50/10 | BI + PD Liability, PIP |
| District of Columbia | 25/50/10 | BI + PD Liability, UM |
| Florida | 10/20/10 | BI + PD Liability, PIP |
| Georgia | 25/50/25 | BI + PD Liability |
| Hawaii | 20/40/10 | BI + PD Liability, PIP |
| Idaho | 25/50/15 | BI + PD Liability |
| Illinois | 25/50/20 | BI + PD Liability, UM, UIM |
| Indiana | 25/50/25 | BI + PD Liability |
| Iowa | 20/40/15 | BI + PD Liability |
| Kansas | 25/50/25 | BI + PD Liability, PIP |
| Kentucky | 25/50/25 | BI + PD Liability, PIP, UM, UIM |
| Louisiana | 15/30/25 | BI + PD Liability |
| Maine | 50/100/25 | BI + PD Liability, UM, UIM, Medpay |
| Maryland | 30/60/15 | BI + PD Liability, PIP, UM, UIM |
| Massachusetts | 20/40/5 | BI + PD Liability, PIP |
| Michigan | 20/40/10 | BI + PD Liability, PIP |
| Minnesota | 30/60/10 | BI + PD Liability, PIP, UM, UIM |
| Mississippi | 25/50/25 | BI + PD Liability |
| Missouri | 25/50/25 | BI + PD Liability, UM |
| Montana | 25/50/20 | BI + PD Liability |
| Nebraska | 25/50/25 | BI + PD Liability, UM, UIM |
| Nevada | 25/50/20 | BI + PD Liability |
| New Hampshire | 25/50/25 | Financial Responsibility only |
| New Jersey | 15/30/5 | BI + PD Liability, PIP, UM, UIM |
| New Mexico | 25/50/10 | BI + PD Liability |
| New York | 25/50/10 | BI + PD Liability, PIP, UM, UIM |
| North Carolina | 30/60/25 | BI + PD Liability, UM, UIM |
| North Dakota | 25/50/25 | BI + PD Liability, PIP, UM, UIM |
| Ohio | 25/50/25 | BI + PD Liability |
| Oklahoma | 25/50/25 | BI + PD Liability |
| Oregon | 25/50/20 | BI + PD Liability, PIP, UM, UIM |
| Pennsylvania | 15/30/5 | BI + PD Liability, PIP |
| Rhode Island | 25/50/25 | BI + PD Liability |
| South Carolina | 25/50/25 | BI + PD Liability, UM, UIM |
| South Dakota | 25/50/25 | BI + PD Liability, UM, UIM |
| Tennessee | 25/50/15 | BI + PD Liability |
| Texas | 30/60/25 | BI + PD Liability, PIP |
| Utah | 25/65/15 | BI + PD Liability, PIP |
| Vermont | 25/50/10 | BI & PD Liab, UM, UIM |
| Virginia | 25/50/20 | BI + PD Liability, UM, UIM |
| Washington | 25/50/10 | BI + PD Liability |
| West Virginia | 25/50/25 | BI + PD Liability, UM, UIM |
| Wisconsin | 25/50/10 | BI + PD Liability, UM, Medpay |
| Wyoming | 25/50/20 | BI + PD Liability |
If your car doesn’t run, there’s a good chance that it isn’t worth very much in most cases. Assuming that’s the case, you can probably settle for a low-cost auto insurance policy with your state’s minimum coverage. As you can see above, these values vary drastically from state to state.
Otherwise, you could also consider a usage-based auto insurance policy. These policies aren’t always recommended, but if you have a car that can’t be driven, you’ll clearly have very low usage on that vehicle.
Some auto insurance companies will allow policyholders to purchase usage-based insurance on only one car whereas others may require policyholders to enroll all vehicles, so this is another factor to consider. Pay-per-mile auto insurance would likely be one of the most affordable options if you have a car that doesn’t run that you need to insure.
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Can I get auto insurance without a car?
If your car is no longer running and you don’t care if it ever drives on the road again, you won’t need to keep it insured. You will need to find a way to get rid of the vehicle so that it doesn’t rot in your driveway, but it’s up to you how you’ll dispose of it.
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If you no longer have a car but you’re in the shopping process or you’re looking to get your first car, you might need to know how to get auto insurance without a car. Thankfully, this is a straightforward process.
To get auto insurance without a car, you’ll need to ask your insurance company about non-owner auto insurance. These insurance policies also tend to use the state minimums for coverage, unless otherwise requested. This will allow you to stay covered if you drive vehicles owned by friends or at work.
If you’re considering this type of insurance, you’ll want to be sure to get quotes from multiple insurers to see which company offers the best rates.
Buying Insurance for a Car That Doesn’t Run: The Bottom Line
Do you need to buy insurance for a car that doesn’t run? In most cases, it’s required to keep all vehicles registered and insured if you intend on ever driving the vehicle again. There are some auto insurance options to help save in the meantime.
By now, you should have a better understanding of how to get insurance for a car that doesn’t run. Before you go, enter your ZIP code below to get free quotes from the cheapest auto insurance companies in your area.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you need insurance on a car that doesn’t run?
Yes, you generally need insurance on a car that doesn’t run, although the specific requirements may vary depending on your location and local regulations. Even if the car is inoperable and not being driven, it could still be exposed to certain risks or liabilities.
Why do I need insurance for a non-running car?
There are several reasons why insurance is typically required for a non-running car:
- Protection against theft or vandalism: Insurance can help cover the cost of repairs or replacement if your non-running car is stolen or vandalized.
- Liability coverage: If your non-running car causes damage to another person’s property or injures someone while parked, you could be held financially responsible. Insurance can provide liability coverage to protect you in such situations.
- Storage-related risks: Non-running cars can be susceptible to risks such as fire, flooding, or damage from falling objects. Insurance can help cover the costs of these damages.
What type of insurance coverage do I need for a non-running car?
The type of insurance coverage you need for a non-running car may depend on your specific situation and local regulations. Here are some common coverage options:
- Comprehensive coverage: This coverage protects against theft, vandalism, and damage caused by events other than accidents, such as fire, flood, or falling objects.
- Storage coverage: Some insurers offer specialized storage or “inoperable vehicle” coverage designed for non-running cars. This coverage may be more affordable since the car is not being driven.
- Liability coverage: Liability coverage is essential if your non-running car poses a risk of causing property damage or bodily injury to others while parked.
Can I suspend my insurance coverage if my car doesn’t run?
It depends on the insurance company and your policy terms. Some insurers may allow you to suspend coverage temporarily if you can provide proof that the car is inoperable and won’t be driven. However, it’s important to check with your insurance provider to understand their specific guidelines and any potential consequences of suspending coverage.
Are there any consequences for not insuring a non-running car?
Yes, there can be consequences for not insuring a non-running car, especially if it’s required by law or if you want to protect yourself from potential liabilities. Operating an uninsured vehicle, even if it doesn’t run, could result in fines, penalties, or legal issues depending on your jurisdiction.
Can I remove my non-running car from my existing auto insurance policy?
In many cases, you can remove a non-running car from your existing auto insurance policy. Contact your insurance provider to inform them about the situation and discuss your options. They may be able to adjust your policy accordingly, either by removing the car entirely or switching it to a different type of coverage that suits its non-operational status.
Will insuring a non-running car be more affordable than insuring a functioning vehicle?
Generally, insuring a non-running car can be more affordable than insuring a functioning vehicle. Since the car is not being driven, the risk of accidents or collisions is significantly reduced. Insurance providers may offer specialized coverage options or reduced rates for non-running cars. However, the actual cost will depend on various factors, including your location, the car’s value, and the specific coverage you choose.
Can I transfer my existing insurance coverage from a running car to a non-running car?
In most cases, you cannot transfer the insurance coverage from a running car directly to a non-running car. Insurance policies are typically vehicle-specific, and coverage needs to be adjusted accordingly. You will likely need to inform your insurance provider about the change in vehicles and request appropriate coverage for the non-running car.
What documentation might be required to insure a non-running car?
While the documentation requirements can vary depending on the insurance provider and your location, some common documents you may need to provide include:
- Vehicle identification number (VIN)
- Proof of ownership, such as the car’s title or registration documents
- Information about the car’s condition and reasons for it being non-running
- Any relevant storage or parking details
Can I cancel insurance on a non-running car if I plan to sell or dispose of it soon?
If you plan to sell or dispose of the non-running car in the near future, you may be able to cancel the insurance coverage once you no longer own it. However, it’s essential to check with your insurance provider regarding their cancellation policies and any potential fees or requirements associated with terminating the coverage.
Free Auto Insurance Comparison
Enter your ZIP code below to view companies that have cheap auto insurance rates.
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Daniel Walker
Licensed Auto Insurance Agent
Daniel Walker graduated with a BS in Administrative Management in 2005 and has run his family’s insurance agency, FCI Agency, for over 15 years (BBB A+). He is licensed as an insurance agent to write property and casualty insurance, including home, life, auto, umbrella, and dwelling fire insurance. He’s also been featured on sites like Reviews.com and Safeco. To ensure our content is accura...
Licensed Auto Insurance Agent
Editorial Guidelines: We are a free online resource for anyone interested in learning more about auto insurance. Our goal is to be an objective, third-party resource for everything auto insurance related. We update our site regularly, and all content is reviewed by auto insurance experts.