How can I get insurance the same day?

It takes between 20 and 60 minutes to get car insurance in most cases. How long it takes to get car insurance depends on how you apply and whether you have the required documents ready.

Car insurance companies may offer as many as three ways to obtain coverage: online, by phone, or in person. Getting car insurance coverage online is fastest. Most insurance providers say that you can get a policy online in just a few clicks, or in a few minutes.... read full answer

Once you’ve completed your application, the insurance provider can usually give you proof of insurance that day, then mail you an insurance card within approximately 5 to 10 business days.

If this is your first policy or you are not currently covered by an insurance provider, your coverage can start the day you complete your application and payment.

If you are already covered by another provider at the time of your application, you can choose when you want your new coverage to start. You will also need to cancel your old policy. Sometimes, your new provider will handle this process for you.

Whether you’d prefer to get car insurance online, by phone or in person, it is a good idea to prepare your personal and vehicle information, as well as your preferred payment method, before you start the application.

It is also a good idea to familiarize yourself with the kind of insurance coverage you will need. If applying online, most insurance companies will let you add and remove coverage options until you find the coverage, premium and deductible that work best for you. If you are applying by phone or in person, you will be able to work with an agent do this. We suggest reviewing several quotes before making a final decision.

It can be cheaper to buy car insurance online than through an agent, if you are willing to do the work of understanding and comparing policies. Using an agent can cost you 5% to 20% extra on a new policy in the first year and 2% to 15% every time you renew, according to numerous sources.... read full answer

There are two kinds of car insurance agents: independent and captive. Independent agents work for themselves and sell car insurance from multiple companies. Their income comes from sales commissions. You will pay these either directly, as a service fee, or indirectly through higher premiums. According to the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America, Inc., independent agents earn 8% to 15% of a new policy's first year premium and 2% to 15% at renewal.

Captive agents work for a single company, offering only that insurer’s products. They earn a salary, usually plus commissions. Their initial commissions range from about 5% to 10% of the value of new auto policies that they sell, plus a small percentage at each renewal. This cost is included in your premiums.

Commission costs tend to be higher for independent agents than captive agents. However, an independent agent can comparison shop among multiple insurers to find the best price for the coverage you need. Sometimes, this may be worth the higher commission.

Direct comparison shopping online, with no agent and no commissions, is the cheapest way to buy car insurance. But it takes time and research. As a good rule of thumb, you should get 3-5 quotes. Plus, you’ll need to understand the coverage in detail to compare quotes accurately. Look closely at insurance types, protection levels, deductibles, coverage limitations, discounts and any special services. Also read reviews of the companies you’re considering to learn from the experiences of other consumers.

If you only want state minimum insurance, buying directly online is probably your cheapest and best method. If your needs are more complex, decide whether getting expert help is worth the extra cost.