Quick answer
Moving to a new state usually means updating or replacing your car insurance policy, and most states give you 30 to 90 days after the move to do it. Call your current agent before the move: if your insurer is licensed in the new state you can often transfer, and if not you will need a new carrier. Expect the rate to change either way, since premiums are priced partly by ZIP code.
Auto insurance is required in every state except New Hampshire (and it is a good idea there, too). Even Virginia, long the other holdout, made coverage mandatory when its uninsured motor vehicle fee was repealed in July 2024. However, the requirements may differ slightly from state to state, so you should do a little research first. This article can help get you off to a good start.
How Do You Find Car Insurance When Moving to a New State?
When you prepare to move to a new state, you should call your current insurance agent to see what changes you’ll need to make to your insurance. You should also take a look at the DMV website in your new state to confirm the insurance requirements (and check out vehicle registration and driver’s license requirements while you’re there). Typically, you will need insurance in your new state before you can register your vehicle there. Once you’ve handled all the new registration and insurance requirements, don’t forget to cancel your policy in your former state.
Keep reading to learn some of the key information you need to know when moving to a new state.
Do You Need to Change Car Insurance After You Move to a New State?
You may be able to keep your old insurance after you move to a new state, depending on whether your insurance company is licensed to do business in the new state. However, almost certainly, you’ll need to switch insurance agents since agents are typically only licensed in one state. Depending on the state you’re moving to, you’ll have 30 to 90 days to make any needed insurance changes.
Do You Need to Change Car Insurance Before You Move to a New State?
You don’t need to change your car insurance before you make your move to a new state, but you should start the process by discussing your move with your current insurance agent. You’ll need insurance in the new state before you can register your car there, so don’t delay.
How Quickly Should You Update Your Car Insurance Policy After Moving?
Depending on the state, you’ll have 30 to 90 days to update your insurance policy and get your car registered in your new state. Fines can be hefty if you don’t meet the deadlines, so it’s a good idea to get the process started as quickly as possible.
Does Moving to Another State Affect Your Auto Insurance Policy Rate?
Yes. In fact, even a move within your state (or even within your city) can change your auto insurance rates since rates are determined in part by your zip code. You may find that your car insurance rate changes drastically with your interstate move, so get all the information you need as early as possible to plan for the rate change.
Are Some States More Expensive for Auto Insurance Than Others?
Yes. States can vary by thousands of dollars per year in their auto insurance rates. At the top of the list is Michigan, where minimal coverage (liability only) runs an average of over $4,000 per year. Other states where auto insurance is very expensive include Florida, Rhode Island, Delaware, and Nevada. The least expensive state for auto insurance is Iowa, with an average yearly rate of under $400 for minimal coverage. Other states with highly affordable insurance premiums include South Dakota, Wisconsin, North Dakota, and Wyoming.
Are There Any States Auto Insurance Providers Do Not Operate in?
You can find auto insurance providers in every state, but not every auto insurance company operates in every state. You may even be surprised to learn that a major insurance company whose ads you’ve seen on TV doesn’t operate in your state. If the insurance company you used in your old state doesn’t operate in your new state, you’ll have to do some research to find the best coverage at the best price from a new-to-you company that does operate in your new state.
