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

Can I pause my insurance while I'm away for work?

I currently live in San Jose but this summer I will be traveling to Seattle for a job for two months. I plan to buy a car between now and August. But if I were to buy one in May and get it fully insured, would I be able to pause the insurance or do something so that I wouldn’t be paying the full amount while I am not driving the vehicle for two months and living in Seattle and the car is still in California?

Aug 8, 2025 San Jose, California

Answer
Author profile picture
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

If your vehicle registration isn't up for renewal soon, you might be able to put the vehicle into "storage protection." What this means is the vehicle is not legally allowed on the road, but will still maintain comprehensive coverage in order to protect the vehicle from theft and weather damage. This will also help reduce your premium without having to cancel your insurance or registration. Be aware: because the vehicle does not have the state-required liability coverage, you or anyone else isn't allowed to drive the vehicle. Moreover, it's probably best to keep the vehicle securely placed in a garage or off the streets. Your best bet for this coverage is to speak with your current provider as most providers have something like this. Best of luck.

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...

If my car was hit by a family member, can I claim the damage with my insurance company to help them avoid a higher rate?

You could claim the damage as a hit-and-run, but that's technically not what happened so I would avoid lying to your insurance company. I would recommend getting a repair estimate first so you can factor that into your decision. The only way to avoid causing an increase to your family member's poli…
Apr 8, 2022 Sacramento, CA

What do I do if a tree falls on my car?

That's frustrating! The good news is that if you have comprehensive coverage, then there should be no issue filing a claim with Travelers and getting your vehicle repaired in a timely manner since you've already been waiting on the other insurer. Even when damage isn't your fault, sometimes it's wo…
Aug 26, 2026 Fremont, CA

What can you do if Mercury offers less than your repair estimate?

This situation is more common than you might think, and you are not necessarily stuck with the first number Mercury gives you.Insurance estimates and contractor estimates often differ because they are based on different methods and pricing tools. Mercury’s adjuster may be using standard estimating …
Mar 26, 2026 Modesto, CA

Does Chubb insure homes in California?

Yes, Chubb does write homeowners insurance in California, though availability can vary depending on your location, property value, and fire risk. Because California has seen so many wildfire-related losses, a lot of carriers have scaled back coverage in higher-risk ZIP codes. Chubb is one of the in…
Oct 9, 2025 Anaheim, CA