Ask an Agent
Have a question? We're here to help.
Ask an agent for free
Question

What are the requirements for USAA?

How do I know if I qualify for USAA?

Aug 13, 2024 Seguin, TX

Answer
Author profile picture
Ava Lynch
Director of Insurance Content

Ava joined The Zebra in 2016 as a licensed insurance agent and writer. She now serves as director of insurance content, leading coverage strategy and…

Credentials
  • 9+ years of Experience in the Insurance Industry

Thanks for reaching out to The Zebra!

This is a fairly common question, as USAA is well-known for its customer service and often lower-than-average insurance rates. The downside is that USAA requires its members to be active, retired, or honorably separated officers of the U.S. military. Suppose you're not directly affiliated with the military. In that case, you can qualify if your parent is a USAA member or you're a spouse of a USAA member (including former spouse or widowed individuals). These rules can change, so it's best to go through USAA's quote process and enter your specific information to see if you qualify.

Luckily, if you don't qualify for USAA, it doesn't mean there isn't an insurance carrier that fits your needs. One of the options I most frequently recommend to folks is to check into options from lesser-known, or smaller, regional insurance companies.

Here are some good examples of the best regional carriers according to our customer satisfaction survey:

  • Erie, for drivers in the Northeast or Southeast part of the country, has fantastic ratings for both customer service and claims service and is consistently rated in The Zebra's Top 5 in multiple categories.
  • Wawanesa is available to drivers in California and Oregon and offers car, renters, homeowners, and condo owners insurance (and a variety of discounts).
  • CSAA Insurance Group (a AAA insurer) offers policies in 23 states. AAA offers additional perks for members (on many things, from dining out to pet insurance).
  • Farm Bureau has affiliates in all 50 states, and is membership-based, offering additional products and discounts (such as hotel and rental car) to members. Take a look at the Texas Farm Bureau page to get a sense of what they can offer you.

Whether you want to look further into rates for USAA or want to take a look at other prospective insurance companies, give our knowledgeable agents a call at 888-255-4364 or easily compare auto insurance rates online.

Ask an Agent
Have a question? We're here to help.
Ask an agent for free

Insurance is complicated, but it doesn't have to be.

The Zebra searches all of the top insurance companies, in one place, so you can compare the cost and coverage you need to protect your car, home and other property.

Step 1: Tell us a little about yourself

Choose an insurance product and enter your zip code to get started.

Step 2: Sip your coffee while we find the best quotes

Enter the necessary information and then sit back while we find quotes from 100 top insurance carriers.

Step 3: Compare your quotes

Compare quotes side-by-side to find the right match for you, whether it's home, auto, or more.

Step 4: Let our agents do the hard work for you

Once you pick your policy, our agents are here to get you over the finish line. Then just relax and enjoy your savings.

Compare insurance rates today!

Pin
Shield checkmark No junk mail. No spam calls. Free quotes.

Related Questions

Other people are also asking...

How do claims go with Westfield?

Feedback on Westfield’s claims process is mixed, and it really seems to depend on the situation. Some customers report smooth, straightforward experiences with helpful adjusters and timely payments. Others, though, describe slower timelines or frustration over communication once a claim is in motio…
Oct 23, 2025 Louisville, KY

Will my down payment be refunded if I cancel my insurance during the first month?

You can cancel and switch car insurance providers whenever you choose, even the same month you signed up; there's no minimum time you're required to stay with a carrier.But before you cancel, reach out to your current carrier to ask about cancellation fees and refund eligibility, since this varies …
Aug 26, 2026 Dace City, FL

Is Chubb only for wealthy families, or does it work for regular homeowners too?

Chubb does market to higher-value households, but that doesn't mean it isn't a solid option for you (depending on your priorities). Where Chubb stands out is in their coverage limits and claim handling. If you own a new or luxury vehicle, for example, Chubb often offers agreed value coverage — mean…

Does Dairyland do SR-22s fast?

Yes, that’s actually one of the things Dairyland does best. They’re known for helping people who need SR-22 filings or have had a lapse or suspension, and they usually move faster than bigger companies when it comes to getting you legal again.The process is usually pretty quick. In many states, the…
Mar 18, 2026 Amarillo, TX