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

Should I get insurance or car registration first?

The registration on my car expired 2 years ago because it wasn't running. I finally have it fixed but I'm not sure if it has to be insured before I can get my tags. What should I do?

Mar 17, 2016 Provo, UT

Answer
Author profile picture

The Zebra

The nation's leading independent insurance comparison site

The Zebra is an independent insurance advisor and quote comparison site with headquarters in Austin, Texas. Utilizing its real-time quote comparison …

In most states you are required to provide proof that your vehicle is insured before allowing you to register your vehicle. The insurance policy must meet the state's minimum coverage requirement to tag your vehicle so you will want to take your proof of coverage with you to verify your compliance with the law. And if you will be driving the vehicle to the registration office you want to make sure that you are insured to be legal on the road anyway.
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. No phone number required.

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.

Icon Fill Form

Step 3: Compare your quotes

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

Icon Agent

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!

Location pin icon
No junk mail. No spam calls. Free quotes.

Related Questions

Other people are also asking...

Does a non-running vehicle need to be insured in Florida

There's a couple of things to think about here: If your car is registered you will need to have insurance on it, even if you are not driving it. If you do not have insurance, the state of Florida can suspend your license. Another option would be to turn your plates into the department…
Aug 1, 2018 Miami, FL

How much will my insurance cover if I have an accident while towing my friends trailer?

Each policy is going to have different guidelines as to what they will and will not cover. You will definitely want to check with your specific company to find out if your policy will cover the damages. With that being said, typically, your insurance would only cover damage that you caused to other…
Jun 20, 2018 Milwaukee, WI

What happens if I stop paying for my SR22?

If you stop paying for the SR-22, the insurance company is then required to notify the state that the policy has been canceled. Typically, the state will suspend your license and you may have additional fines as well. Keep in mind that license suspensions show up on your motor vehicle report which …
Jan 31, 2019 Miami, FL

If I have car insurance, can I test drive a car that has no insurance?

Yes, most car insurance companies in Alabama will cover you while driving another vehicle, even if you do end up getting in an accident during a test drive. To be sure, we recommend calling your specific insurance company to find out exactly what their coverage entails, but know that this type of s…
Jun 24, 2019 Madison, AL