How to Get Insurance on a Borrowed Car
There are several insurance companies that offer short-term automobile policies. While you can borrow a car and obtain insurance (e.g., for one day or at least one month), you will face typical eligibility questions. For example, an insurance company might request your driver's license or Social Security number to check you driving and credit history. To qualify for temporary insurance, some companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old.
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Instructions
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Determine insurance needs, especially extent of coverage (e.g., liability, comprehensive and collision), affordable deductible, and reasonable duration (e.g., one month, three months). If needed, search for coverage that applies out of state or internationally (e.g., Mexico, Canada).
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Gather information about the car's make and model. There likely is a cost difference between insuring a 2004 Toyota Camry versus a 2004 Land Rover Discovery.
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Compare quotes from multiple companies including online sources (e.g., insurance.com, esurance.com) and independent agents. Avoid relying on a current insurer (e.g., health, homeowner, property) since rates vary significantly.
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Submit complete payment. You likely must pay in full for the coverage to be effective, though some companies might accept payment plans. It is illegal to drive a car without insurance.
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Contact your credit card company or the insurance company of your personal car. Your insurance company might extend coverage to a borrowed car, whether it is a rental or belongs to a friend. Your credit card might provide secondary insurance if you pay for a rental using your car.
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Tips & Warnings
Important factors include your credit history, age, driving record and residence. Expect to pay more if you have bad credit or have been involved in several claims.
Carefully evaluate a policy before purchasing it. Since most insurance agents are paid on commission, their quotes might not represent the best policies.
