If you're seeking some flexibility, you might be interested in a temporary auto insurance contract. Unfortunately, short-term car insurance is hard to come by for a few reasons.
Some many insurance underwriters don't provide contracts shorter than six months. Since auto insurance is required by law in most US states, swapping policies by the month can be risky. Additionally, you risk creating gaps in your auto insurance record by frequently changing policies, leading to higher premiums down the road.
Fortunately, car insurance policies typically last for just six months. This allows auto insurance companies to “re-rate” — or re-price — your premiums with your present driving profile and personal profile.
It also gives you a perfect chance to improve your insurance by requesting quotes from other companies. Shopping prices online costs nothing, and there isn't a penalty for switching car insurance companies when your policy ends — or even mid-policy, as long as you never let your insurance lapse.
The flexible nature of car insurance makes it relatively simple to acquire with almost no notice. If you're asked to purchase a policy to drive a new car away, attempting to get coverage for a relatively long-term auto rental or searching for coverage on a car you don't own but regularly drive, think about purchasing a six-month policy and removing coverage as needed.
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Short-term auto insurance in California
Below are normal car insurance costs in California, organized by top auto insurance companies and the most populous cities. If you're paying more than the rates listed below, consider other options.
TEMPORARY CAR INSURANCE RATES IN CALIFORNIA — BY INSURANCE COMPANY
| Insurance Company | Average 6-Month Rate | Average Monthly Rate |
|---|---|---|
| California State Average — All Companies | $934 | $156 |
| Esurance | $582 | $97 |
| Century National | $667 | $111 |
| GEICO | $679 | $113 |
| Progressive | $784 | $131 |
| California Capital | $811 | $135 |
The most budget-friendly option for temporary auto insurance in California is Esurance, which can save you $14 per month, compared to the next-cheapest option, Century National. In California, the average monthly price of auto insurance is $156, or $934 over a biannual term.
The place in which you drive has just as large an influence on your car insurance rates as the insurance company you choose. Auto insurance companies take into account the frequency of claims in a given area when pricing policies by ZIP code. Check out insurance rates in the largest California cities and compare against what you’re paying.
SHORT-TERM AUTO INSURANCE RATES IN CALIFORNIA — BY CITY
| City | Average 6-Month Rate | Average Monthly Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles | $1,316 | $219 |
| San Diego | $886 | $148 |
| San Jose | $932 | $155 |
| San Francisco | $1,129 | $131 |
| Fresno | $938 | $156 |
Because of the myriad factors involved in setting insurance rates, your quotes may not match the totals displayed above. If your current costs don't match those listed above, take the time to shop around. The short-term duration of a car insurance policy enhances the importance of remaining informed and willing to shop.
Learn more about temporary car insurance or use The Zebra to compare policies for free online.
Additional resources
- Learn more about weekend-only car insurance.
- Is it possible to get car insurance with no credit history?
- Find cheap auto insurance for new drivers.
- Check out the best car insurance options for teen drivers.
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