How to switch car insurance without a coverage gap
The order to do things in, so you are never driving uninsured — not even for a day.
Buy the new policy first
Never cancel the old policy before the new one is active. Choose the new policy, sign it and pay, and set its start date — ideally the same day your old policy ends, or the day you cancel it.
Then cancel the old one
Ask your old insurer to cancel on the new policy's start date, and get the cancellation in writing. If you paid ahead, ask about a refund of the unused part; some insurers charge a cancellation fee, so ask before you cancel.
Tell whoever needs to know
- Your lender or leasing company, if you have one — they need to see the new policy.
- Your state's DMV, if your state requires insurers or drivers to report the change.
- Anyone else on the policy, so they carry the new insurance card.
Why a gap matters
Driving without insurance can be illegal and leaves you paying for any accident yourself. A lapse in cover can also make future quotes higher, because many insurers look at your insurance history.
Ready to compare?
Talk to Pete or, if you prefer, fill in a short form.
More articles
What is an SR-22, and how long do you need one?
It is not insurance — it is proof of insurance your state may ask for after certain violations.
Liability vs full coverage: what you actually need
What each one pays for, who it protects, and how to choose between them.
How much car insurance do you actually need?
Your state's minimum, what a lender asks for, and when cover for your own car stops being worth it.