If you need car insurance fast, you’re in luck — most major auto insurance companies offer same-day car insurance. Purchasing same-day car insurance online is convenient if you need coverage unexpectedly or if you need proof of insurance to buy a car from a dealership.
Purchasing car insurance online takes only a few minutes if you use a comparison site to find the best policy for you. Learn how same-day car insurance works, how to get it, and which companies offer the best same-day car insurance.
The best same-day car insurance companies
Many car insurance companies offer same-day coverage. But some insurers are better than others. To find the best car insurance companies for same-day insurance, Insurify reviewed some of the top insurers based on important features like customer satisfaction ratings, coverage options, discounts, and availability.
As you begin your search, keep the insurers included in this table in mind.
Best for infrequent drivers: Hugo
Best for customer satisfaction: State Farm
Best for discounts: American Family
Best for coverage options: Auto-Owners
How to get same-day car insurance
The process of getting same-day car insurance is usually quick, especially if you use a car insurance comparison site.
Here’s how you can get same-day auto insurance online:
Gather your information. Before you apply, you should gather the information you’ll need to get the most accurate quotes. This includes your driver’s license number and your vehicle’s VIN and current mileage.
Decide how much coverage you need. Check your state laws about liability coverage and think about add-ons like collision and comprehensive coverage. You may want to consider full-coverage policies, depending on your situation. If you have insurance already, you can use your previous policy as a guide.
Compare car insurance quotes. A quote-comparison site can help you see coverage options and car insurance rates to find affordable car insurance. In addition to price, it’s a good idea to also consider each company’s financial strength and customer satisfaction ratings.
Purchase the policy. Once you choose an insurer, you can purchase your policy. Most comparison sites will redirect you to the insurance company’s website to complete the process. Make sure to choose the current date as your policy’s effective date. You’ll need to pay at least the first month’s premium before your coverage can begin. Then, you can download your proof of insurance.
Is same-day car insurance legitimate?
Yes, same-day car insurance is legitimate. Same-day car insurance simply means that your car insurance policy starts on the same day that you apply and pay the initial premium.
Same-day car insurance allows you to get coverage instantly rather than a few days or weeks after you apply. There’s no difference in coverage or cost.
How long does it take to get car insurance?
It usually only takes a few minutes to get same-day car insurance. Once you’re approved and make your payment, your policy begins immediately. But the process could take a little longer if you don’t submit all your personal information correctly or you’re not able to pay right away.
Be sure to have all your information organized, like your driver’s license number and VIN, when you apply.
Cheapest same-day insurance companies
When shopping for same-day car insurance, it’s important to research multiple companies and compare rate quotes. The cheapest same-day car insurance premium you find isn’t necessarily the best option. You should compare insurers based on cost, coverage options, discounts, customer service, and claims satisfaction to ensure you’re picking a reliable one.
In the table below, you can see which companies offer the cheapest same-day car insurance.
What to watch out for when purchasing same-day insurance
While same-day car insurance can be convenient for some drivers, it has a possible few downsides to consider. Here are three potential risks to watch for when buying same-day auto insurance.
You may miss out on discounts
Some car insurance companies offer discounts that may not be available to drivers who purchase same-day coverage. For example, Auto-Owners offers an “advanced quote” discount to customers who apply for an auto insurance quote before the effective date of the policy. If you want same-day coverage, you won’t be eligible for these types of savings.
You might be limiting your options
Some reputable car insurance companies don’t sell same-day car insurance. If you need same-day coverage, keep in mind that you could be limiting your options. It’s possible that the best car insurance company for your coverage needs and budget doesn’t offer same-day coverage, forcing you to settle for a different insurer.
You could rush into a poor decision
If you need car insurance coverage fast, you might not give yourself enough time to thoroughly research insurers, compare quotes, and make the best decision for your needs. As a result, you could rush into purchasing a policy that isn’t ideal for you. If you need coverage quickly, try to give yourself as much time as possible to choose the best insurer.
4 reasons an insurer may deny drivers same-day car insurance
Not all drivers can qualify for same-day car insurance. Here are some of the most common reasons an insurer might deny you same-day coverage:
Same-day car insurance FAQs
Same-day car insurance can be a good option for many drivers. Learn more about same-day auto insurance with these questions and answers.
Can you get car insurance for just one day?
No. Most car insurance companies won’t insure you for just one day. Car insurance policies typically come in six-month or 12-month periods. But Hugo allows drivers to purchase insurance for three days at a time, which can be a good option if you need temporary car insurance coverage.
Is same-day insurance more expensive?
Same-day car insurance costs the same as other car insurance policies. Whether you purchase a same-day policy or purchase coverage two weeks before the policy starts, your premium won’t be any different, unless you qualify for certain discounts.
Is same-day car insurance retroactive?
No. Same-day car insurance isn’t retroactive. When you purchase a policy, you get to choose what day the coverage starts, but the policy’s effective date can’t be in the past. The coverage you buy today won’t apply to last week or yesterday.
Can you get car insurance with no deposit?
Most reputable car insurance companies require a deposit before your coverage can start. The minimum deposit is typically equal to the first month’s premium. But Hugo offers no-down-payment car insurance, which allows you to pay as you go.
Can you get car insurance to start immediately?
Yes. You can get car insurance that starts immediately. In most cases, you can apply, purchase coverage, and begin your policy within minutes. Many insurers also provide digital proof of insurance that you can download right away.
Can you get car insurance online without talking to someone?
Many car insurance companies will sell you a policy without you having to talk to an insurance agent. With companies like State Farm and American Family, the process of purchasing car insurance can happen entirely online. But they have agents available who can answer questions or guide you through the process if you need help.