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By Ava Lynch
Updated February 5, 2023
Edited By Renata Balasco

What is an auto insurance policy?

Your car insurance policy determines your coverage and your premium. In short, it is a way to organize car insurance coverage options to meet your needs. In this article, we’ll outline some popular car insurance policy types as well as some popular policies that may not exist exactly as advertised.

Popular car insurance policy types

Below are some popular and standard car insurance policy classifications. You can purchase these policies from national and local insurance providers.

6-Month Car Insurance Car Insurance for Renters
12-Month Car Insurance Car Insurance for Condo Owners
6-vs-12-Month Car Insurance Car Insurance for Homeowners
Car Insurance for Multiple Drivers Car Insurance for Shared Vehicles
Car Insurance for Multiple Vehicles Car Insurance with Kids
Named Driver Policy Car Insurance with a Nanny

Company and state-specific policies

Below are policies often subject to state and company-specific requirements. These are not always available.

Car Insurance with Telematics AARP Car Insurance
Pay-per-Mile Car Insurance AARP vs. AAA Car Insurance
Car Insurance for Commuters Costco Car Insurance
Car Insurance for Pleasure Use Drivers GEICO vs. Costco Car Insurance
Pleasure vs. Commuting Car Insurance State Farm vs. Costco Car Insurance

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RECENT QUESTIONS

How many cars can I have on my progressive policy?

Hello, Most companies — including Progressive — will allow four cars per policy. Of course, it's always a good idea to check with your insurance company if you are unsure about whether or not your cars are covered.
Jul 14, 2019 North Chesterfield, VA

How many cars can I list under one insurance policy?

The maximum allowable number of drivers and vehicles that can be insured on any particular car insurance policy will vary by company. While there is no set standard, most insurance companies will allow their customers to insure up to 4 drivers and 4 vehicles on a single policy.
Nov 7, 2016 Virginia Beach, VA

I want to get my own car insurance, but my mom won't let me.

Because your mother has an umbrella policy through AAA, she is likely required to have you rated as a driver on her policy. This is a common requirement with insurance carriers who offer umbrella insurance.
Jul 21, 2022 Danville, CA

Is it mandatory to list my adult child on my policy if they live in my home but will not drive my vehicle?

Insurance companies generally require that any person living in the household be listed on your policy regardless of driving status. If a member of your household won't be driving your vehicle then you can normally exclude them from coverage or have them listed as a non-driver.
Aug 1, 2017 Groveton, NH
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About The Zebra

The Zebra is not an insurance company. We publish data-backed, expert-reviewed resources to help consumers make more informed insurance decisions.

  • The Zebra’s insurance content is written and reviewed for accuracy by licensed insurance agents.
  • The Zebra’s insurance content is not subject to review or alteration by insurance companies or partners.
  • The Zebra’s editorial team operates independently of the company’s partnerships and commercialization interests, publishing unbiased information for consumer benefit.
  • The auto insurance rates published on The Zebra’s pages are based on a comprehensive analysis of car insurance pricing data, evaluating more than 83 million insurance rates from across the United States.