How Long Do You Have to Get Insurance on a Used Car in Texas?

You have many ways to buy a used car: You can buy in cash from a private seller, finance one from a dealership, or even trade in your old car, in some cases.

Regardless of how you buy a used car, you’ll need to insure it — and quickly. Texas state law requires you to carry a certain amount of liability insurance on any vehicle that you drive or park on state roads.

Learn more about comparing quotes and how to find insurance for a used car in the Lone Star State.

How long you have to get insurance on a used car in Texas

If you already have a car insurance policy in place, your existing policy will automatically cover the used car you purchase for about 20 days. You’ll need to contact your insurance company and officially add the vehicle before that period expires.

If the vehicle you’re buying is replacing your current car, it’ll get the same coverage as your current car. If it’s an additional car, it’ll get the same coverage as the most comprehensively covered car under your policy.1

If you don’t already have a car insurance policy, you’ll need to purchase the minimum amount of liability insurance required by the state of Texas before you can drive the vehicle home. If you’re financing the used car, your lender will probably require you to have a full-coverage policy.

How long you have to get insurance if you finance a used car

Your lender wants to ensure that its investment is protected, so it’ll probably require you to have full coverage on your pre-owned vehicle. A full-coverage policy includes the minimum amount of liability insurance that Texas requires, as well as collision and comprehensive coverage. You’ll need this coverage before you can drive the car home, if your lender requires it.

If you don’t already have a full-coverage policy in place, here’s what to do to ensure you can take your vehicle home after you buy it:

• Log into the app of your existing car insurance company. You should be able to pull up a proof of insurance card or, depending on your insurer, add the new vehicle onto the policy directly.

• Purchase temporary car insurance online. Some companies offer short-term insurance coverage that you can use until you can get a full-coverage policy in place.

• Apply for a full-coverage policy online. Some car insurance companies may allow you to apply for a policy and get instant coverage online. You can also call your insurance agent, as they may be able to get you coverage quickly over the phone.

How to buy car insurance for a used vehicle in Texas

You’ll need an auto insurance policy before you can drive your used car or even register it with the state of Texas.3

To do this, you should:

1. Gather the right information. You’ll need your car’s make, model, and year, as well as its VIN and information on any safety or anti-theft devices installed in it.

2. Know how much coverage you want. You’ll need the minimum required by Texas law, but you may want additional coverages, too. It’s a good idea to have an idea of what deductible and coverage limits you want as well.

3. Compare insurers. You should consider things like customer service, rates, discounts, claim-filing process, and more. Premiums can vary widely by insurance company.

4. Buy the policy. Finally, you’ll pay for the policy and get proof of insurance. You may be able to get a discount if you pay for your policy in full.

Minimum car insurance requirements in Texas

Every U.S. state except New Hampshire requires drivers to carry a minimum amount of liability insurance. This covers other people’s injuries, medical bills, and property damage if you cause an accident. But it won’t cover your injuries or vehicle damage. 

Here are the minimum coverages you’ll need:

• Personal injury liability: $30,000 per person and $60,000 per accident

• Property damage liability: $25,000

All Texas auto policies also include personal injury protection (PIP) coverage. You’ll need to tell your insurance company in writing if you don’t want this coverage.

Optional insurance coverages for a used car in Texas

If you want to be fully protected in the event of an accident, you may want additional coverage on top of the minimum liability coverage that Texas requires.

Here are some optional coverages you may want to consider:

Consequences of driving without insurance in Texas

Driving your car without insurance is illegal in the state of Texas. You can be fined or face driver’s license and registration suspension. In Harris County, for example, the fine is between $175 and $1,000, depending on how many times it happens. It can also come with a misdemeanor or felony charge.

Not having car insurance can also make it harder — and more expensive — to get coverage in the future.

Insurance on a used car in Texas FAQs