What Do You Need to Get Car Insurance?

If it’s your first time applying for car insurance, knowing exactly what information and documents you need can save time and help you get the best rate.
This guide explains what to prepare, what documents insurers require, and the exact steps to buy car insurance in the USA.

What Information Do You Need to Get Car Insurance?

When you apply for auto insurance, the company will request personal, vehicle, and financial details. These details help them assess your risk level and determine your premium.

1. Personal Information

You must provide accurate personal details for yourself and anyone else who will drive the car:

• Legal name

• Home address and the location where the car will be parked

• Names of all household members

• Names and driver’s license numbers of all drivers on the policy

• Email address and phone number

• Gender, date of birth, marital status

• Social Security Number

• Occupation and income source

• Driving history for each driver

Why this matters:
Insurers check every listed driver’s record. A history of traffic violations or accidents can raise premiums. Married drivers often pay less because data from the National Institutes of Health shows they are statistically less likely to be involved in accidents.

2. Credit History

Many insurers use credit-based insurance scores to predict how likely you are to file a claim. This score considers:

• Payment history

• Length of credit history

• Existing debts and loans

• Past late payments

Some insurers also check your Comprehensive Loss Underwriting Exchange (CLUE) report, which lists claims made over the last seven years.

Important:
In certain states like California, Hawaii, and Massachusetts, it’s illegal for insurers to use credit scores to set premiums. Check your state’s insurance laws before applying.

3. Vehicle Information

Since the insurance covers a specific car, you must provide:

• Year, make, and model

• Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)

• Body style and mileage

• Ownership status (owned, financed, or leased)

• Current and previous insurance company

• Estimated odometer reading

• Safety features like airbags, anti-lock brakes, and anti-theft devices

Tip: Cars with strong safety ratings and anti-theft features may qualify for lower premiums.

What Documents Do You Need for Car Insurance?

When you’re ready to apply, have these documents prepared:

If adding other drivers, submit copies of their licenses too.
For discounts, you may also provide:

• Defensive driving course certificates

• School transcripts (for good student discounts)

• Military or veteran ID

• Declarations page of an existing policy

How to Buy Car Insurance: Step-by-Step Guide

Once you have your information and documents ready, follow these six steps.

Step 1 – Define Your Coverage Requirements

Check your state’s minimum coverage laws. Most states require:

• Bodily injury liability

• Property damage liability

If your car is leased or financed, lenders often require collision and comprehensive coverage.
Some states also mandate Personal Injury Protection (PIP) or Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist coverage.

Step 2 – Get Multiple Quotes

Contact at least three insurers. Use online comparison tools or work with an independent insurance agent.
Example: A driver in Texas might find annual rates ranging from $950 to $1,600 for the same coverage.

Step 3 – Check Company Background and Reviews

Before committing, research the insurer’s:

• Customer service ratings (e.g., via J.D. Power studies)

• Financial strength (e.g., from A.M. Best ratings)

• Claim processing reputation

This ensures you choose a company that’s reliable when you need it most.

Step 4 – Prepare Your Paperwork

Organize your personal details, driving history, and vehicle documents.
Having everything ready speeds up the approval process and helps avoid delays.

Step 5 – Decide on Your Deductible

The deductible is what you pay before insurance covers the rest.

• Higher deductible → Lower monthly premium

• Lower deductible → Higher monthly premium but less upfront cost in an accident

Step 6 – Ask About Discounts

Insurers offer savings for:

• Bundling home and auto policies

• Maintaining a clean driving record

• Installing anti-theft devices

• Paying the full premium upfront

• Low annual mileage

Example: First-Time Buyer Scenario

Imagine a 24-year-old driver in Florida buying a used Toyota Corolla. They provide:

• Personal info, license, SSN

• Vehicle VIN, mileage, and safety features

• Defensive driving certificate

By comparing quotes from five insurers and choosing a $1,000 deductible, they save $350 annually compared to accepting the first offer.

Key Takeaways

To get car insurance in the USA, you need:

1. Personal, credit, and driving history information

2. Vehicle details and safety feature records

3. Required documents like licenses and registration

4. A clear understanding of coverage needs

5. Multiple quotes and discount checks

By preparing these in advance, you can get insured faster and often at a lower cost.