If you want some auto insurance flexibility, you could be considering a short-term auto insurance policy. However, temporary car insurance is rare for multiple reasons.
Some major auto insurers will not offer policy terms for periods shorter than six months. Because car coverage is required by law in most states, changing policies by the month can be a risky proposition. You also run the risk of having gaps in your car insurance record by swapping policies frequently, leading to more expensive rates in the future.
Fortunately, car insurance agreements typically last for only six months. This hasty turnaround allows insurers to frequently “re-rate” — or re-price — your costs based on your current driving history and personal info.
It also provides a perfect opportunity for you to reassess your insurance by contacting other car insurers. Finding quotes online is easy and complimentary, and there isn't necessarily a penalty for switching car insurance companies between policy terms — or even in the middle of your policy period, as long as you never let your insurance lapse.
Car insurance's flexible nature makes it relatively easy to acquire on short notice. If you need a policy to take your new car off of the lot, attempting to get coverage for a relatively long-term car rental or seeking insurance for a car you don't own but do drive regularly, consider purchasing a half-year policy and cutting the agreement short as needed.
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Short-term car insurance in Ohio
Below are average car insurance rates in Ohio, ordered by popular insurers and major cities. If you're paying more than the rates listed below, consider making a change.
SHORT-TERM AUTO INSURANCE RATES IN OHIO — BY INSURER
| Insurance Company | Average 6-Month Rate | Average Monthly Rate |
| Ohio State Average — All Companies | $523 | $87 |
| Merchants Insurance Group | $425 | $71 |
| USAA | $434 | $72 |
| State Farm | $479 | $80 |
| Utica National | $484 | $81 |
| Hastings Mutual Insurance | $490 | $82 |
The cheapest option for short-term auto insurance in Ohio is Merchants Insurance Group, which can save you $2 per month, compared to the next-best choice, USAA. In Ohio, the average monthly cost of auto insurance is $87, or $523 over a six-month term.
The place in which you reside can have as great an influence on your car insurance premiums as as your choice of insurance company. Car insurance companies weigh the frequency of claims in a given area when rating policies by ZIP code. View insurance prices in the biggest cities in Ohio and compare against what you’re paying.
TEMPORARY AUTO INSURANCE RATES IN OHIO — BY CITY
| City | Average 6-Month Rate | Average Monthly Rate |
| Columbus | $585 | $98 |
| Cleveland | $617 | $103 |
| Cincinnati | $595 | $99 |
| Toledo | $613 | $81 |
| Akron | $566 | $94 |
Because of the myriad factors involved in setting insurance rates, your quotes may not match those displayed above. If your current premiums don’t align with those listed above, take some time to weigh your options. The temporary duration of a car insurance policy increases the importance of staying in-the-know and ready to shop.
Find out more about temporary auto insurance or use The Zebra to view your personalized quotes today.
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.