Non-owner car insurance in California provides liability coverage for people who drive regularly but don’t own a car. You might need a policy if you borrow someone else’s car, rent vehicles, or need SR-22 insurance. It also helps you avoid coverage gaps if you temporarily don’t own a car.
This coverage is 37% cheaper than liability-only insurance and 69% less than full-coverage insurance, Insurify data shows.
As you shop for the best non-owner car insurance policy, consider the cost, limits, and customer experience. Here’s how to find the right fit.
What is non-owner car insurance in California, and who needs it?
Non-owner coverage is car insurance for drivers without a car. It provides protection when you drive someone else’s vehicle. The coverage is more limited than other policies since it covers only liability for property damage and injuries. The car owner’s coverage kicks in after an accident, so you don’t need extra coverage as a non-owner.
For example, let’s say you borrow a friend’s car regularly. Your friend’s insurance policy has a $30,000 limit for property damage. While you’re driving, you cause an accident that results in $50,000 of damages to the other driver’s car. Your friend’s insurance would cover $30,000 of the damage, and your non-owner policy would cover the remaining $20,000.
Drivers must have insurance coverage in California, and in most cases, non-owner insurance is one way to meet the legal requirement.1 But it isn’t optional when you need SR-22 insurance and don’t own a car, since non-owner insurance is the only way to make sure you have continuous coverage.
Best non-owner car insurance companies in California
The cost of car insurance depends on various factors, including your driving record, age, location, and insurer.2 Similarly, the best car insurer in California for you depends on your priorities. Some drivers prioritize cost, while others want an outstanding customer experience. Considering your priorities can help you find the right fit.
Here are the top insurers in the state for non-owner car insurance for different types of drivers.
USAA: Best for low rates
Auto Club of Southern CA: Best for customer experience
GEICO: Best for drivers with violations
What non-owner car insurance covers in California
Non-owner car insurance in California includes coverage that meets the minimum requirements for the state, including bodily injury liability and property damage liability.
It’s similar to liability-only insurance, but coverage isn’t tied to any one vehicle. Some policies include additional coverage beyond liability, like personal injury protection and uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage.
Non-owner car insurance in California usually includes the following coverages:3
What non-owner car insurance doesn’t cover
Non-owner car insurance doesn’t typically cover damage to the vehicle you’re driving. For example, let’s say you’re in an accident and damage a rental car. Your non-owner policy won’t cover the cost of vehicle repairs.
Non-owner policies exclude the following:
Cost of non-owner car insurance in California
Non-owner car insurance doesn’t cover the cost of vehicle repairs if you damage the car you’re driving. Because of that, it’s usually less expensive than liability-only or full-coverage policies.
A non-owner policy in California is about 37% cheaper than liability-only coverage and 69% less than full coverage.
The average cost of non-owner car insurance is $66 per month. Your ZIP code, driving record, vehicle type, and age can affect costs. Comparing quotes from multiple insurers can help you find the best deal.
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