If you’re reading this, you probably acquired a new ride recently. First of all, congratulations!
Now, let’s talk about getting your car insured and registered. It might seem like a lot, but it’s really just about making sure your car is legal to drive and that you’re covered if something goes wrong.
And if you’ve recently moved or live in one state but work or go to school in another, you might find yourself in a situation where you have car insurance in a different state than your registration.
Not to worry, though! We’ve gathered five questions about insuring and registering a car to provide you with all the details you could possibly need.
1. What Do I Need to Register My Car?
There are a few things you’ll need to have before your car can be registered. First, you need to prove that the car is yours. This could be a bill of sale or the title of the car. Then, you’ll need an ID, like your driver’s license or passport, to confirm your identity.
You’ll also need a roadworthiness certificate. That’s a check from a mechanic to make sure your car is safe to drive. Don’t forget about car insurance, too. You need to show proof that you’ve got active insurance before you can register the car.
Some places might also ask for proof that you’ve paid taxes related to the car, or maybe even a utility bill with your address. Once you have everything ready, registering your car should be pretty straightforward.
2. What Car Insurance Options Do I Have?
When you’re picking car insurance, there are different options depending on what kind of coverage you need. The most basic type is liability insurance, which covers damages to other cars or injuries if you cause an accident.
If you’re worried about someone hitting you and not having enough insurance, you can also get uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. This helps pay for your car repairs and medical bills if the person who hits you doesn’t have enough insurance.
You might also consider collision insurance, which helps fix your car if it gets damaged in an accident. If your car is stolen or damaged by something like a storm, comprehensive insurance can cover that.
There’s also roadside assistance, which is helpful if your car breaks down and you need a tow or a jump-start. And then, if you have a brand-new car, you might want new car replacement coverage, which replaces your car with the same make and model if it gets totaled.
3. How Do I Pick the Right Insurance?
Picking the right car insurance isn’t too hard once you know what you’re looking for. First, think about what kind of car you have. If it’s new or expensive, you might want more coverage.
You should also consider how often you drive. If you’re on the road all the time, you’ll probably need better protection. But if your car just sits in the driveway, you might not need as much.
Then, look at your budget. Be honest with yourself about what you can afford. You don’t want to spend more than you can handle, but you also don’t want to skimp on coverage.
Make sure you meet your state’s insurance requirements. Every state has different rules, so make sure you have at least the minimum coverage needed, and then add extra coverage if it makes sense for you. It’s also a good idea to shop around and compare prices. Some insurance companies offer discounts if you’re a good driver or have certain safety features in your car.
4. Can I Register My Car Without Insurance?
The short answer is no. You can’t register your car without insurance. At a minimum, you’ll need liability insurance, which covers damage if you cause an accident. If you try to register your car without insurance, you could face fines or even have your license suspended.
Worst case, your car might get taken away. So, make sure you’ve got insurance before you go to register your car.
5. How Do I Update My Car’s Registration and Insurance?
If you need to update your car’s registration or insurance info, it’s pretty simple. To register, you’ll need to go to your local DMV. Bring your proof of insurance, ID, and the title of your car. You’ll fill out some forms, pay the fee, and you’re good to go.
If you need to update your insurance, start by checking your current policy. See what’s covered and what needs to be updated. Then, contact your insurance company to let them know about any changes, like if you moved or got a new car. They’ll help you adjust your coverage, and you’ll pay any difference in your premium.
