How to add a car to your insurance policy

In 2017, there were 1.88 cars per household in America. You will need to insure the additional vehicle if you own a car. You can usually add a second car to an existing auto insurance policy. Although some companies insure vehicles on a one-vehicle-per-policy basis, many allow policyholders to insure a number of vehicles on one policy. You can add your vehicle to an existing policy if your insurance agency allows it.

How to add another vehicle

It usually takes only a few minutes to add a vehicle or other items to an existing policy. You will need to contact your insurance company in order to get started. Your insurance company may allow you to add your vehicle through their website or mobile app. However, you can also contact your agent or insurance carrier by phone or visiting your local office.

You will not need as much information to add another car to your existing policy. Details about your new vehicle will be required, as well as an idea of the type of coverage that you want. An agent can help you choose the best coverage for your additional vehicle.

You can usually get coverage for an extra car as soon as you have the necessary vehicle information.

What information is required to add a vehicle?

To insure an additional vehicle, gather the following information before you call your insurance company or visit your agent.

  • Year, make, and model
  • Vehicle identification number (VIN).
  • Estimated annual mileage

You will need to give your insurance company the information if your vehicle is financed by a loan or lease.

Why would I want to add another vehicle to my insurance policy

A vehicle may not be required to be added to an existing policy. You may be advised to purchase a separate policy in certain situations.

There may be benefits to insuring more than one vehicle under one policy. Multi-car policies often get a discount on the cost of coverage. Before you decide to save money, consider these pros and cons.

ProsCons
Multi-car insuranceMulti-car discounts are available for more cars than you have.
It’s easier to manage everything from one location
Pay only one bill
All your vehicle bills will be due simultaneously
Separate policiesYou can set up different renewal dates for each car so that bills are not synchronized
It is possible to have different coverage for each vehicle
Insurance may be more costly if purchased separately
Separate bills and due dates will be required.

You may not have the option to insure your vehicles under one insurance policy. To discuss your options, contact your agent or company if you aren’t sure how to insure your additional vehicle.

How does adding a vehicle to my policy impact my rate?

Your premium will increase if you add a vehicle to your policy.

Insurance companies offer multi-car discounts that can offset the cost of adding another car. Compare quotes to ensure you get the best multi-car insurance rates.

How to select coverages for an auto-related purchase

Before you can choose coverage for an additional vehicle, it is important to determine whether you require minimum coverage insurance or complete coverage insurance. To legally drive, most states require minimum liability insurance.

The average cost for car insurance in America is $563 per annum for minimum coverage, and $1738 per annum for full coverage. Although minimum coverage is cheaper, purchasing full coverage and higher limits can have benefits.

Minimum coverage insurance covers only what is required by the state. This includes liability bodily injury, property damage, and sometimes uninsured motorists coverage. If you are involved in an accident that results in damage to another person’s vehicle, this coverage will cover the cost of your damages. If you are struck by an uninsured motorist, your Uninsured Motorists coverage will pay for the damages. You will be responsible for any damages that exceed your minimum coverage limits if you cause an accident.

You will need to have full coverage if you want liability insurance to cover damages to your vehicle. Full coverage insurance covers liability, as well as collision and comprehensive insurance. This insurance may cover damages to your car. Collision insurance covers damage to your vehicle caused by collisions with other vehicles or objects. Comprehensive coverage covers damage from weather, theft and fire as well as vandalism or striking an animal. You will need to have full coverage if you have a loan, lease or contract for your vehicle.

Questions frequently asked

Is it possible to increase the rate of my insurance by adding a vehicle to my policy?

Your premiums will increase if you add a vehicle to the policy. Multi-car discounts may be available to lower your rates. Talk to your agent about any discounts that may be available.

Can I add a vehicle to my policy online

Many insurance companies offer the ability to add a vehicle through their website. It is easy to add a policy online. Online adding a second vehicle to your policy may not be the best option. It is possible to miss out on coverage options or discounts that an agent or representative might recommend.

How fast should I add a car to my policy?

Each state has its own regulations regarding car insurance. Although it can be difficult to coordinate your coverage with the time you get the keys to your vehicle, insurers do their best to make the transition smooth. You can set up coverage for your additional vehicle in advance and include a date when coverage should begin. You can also call your insurance company to get your vehicle insured the same day you receive them keys. Most cases your carrier will be able to accommodate your request.