Erinn Dimond, WalletHub Writer
@Erinn.dimond
Yes, car insurance will cover an unregistered car temporarily. You need insurance to buy a car from a dealership, and that insurance will cover you from the time you drive off the lot, even before you register the car with the DMV and trade in your temporary plates for the permanent version.
Make sure to register the vehicle as soon as possible. It is illegal to drive an unregistered car, even with insurance, after the temporary plates have expired.
When Your Car Could Be Unregistered But Still Covered by Insurance
New Car: After buying your car, the dealership will issue you temporary plates that last only until the date specified – usually around 30 days. You will be able to buy insurance before purchasing your car, and this coverage will protect you during the 30 days you have to register the vehicle and beyond.
Fixer-Upper: If you have a fixer-upper project in the garage or shed, your vehicle may be unregistered if it’s undrivable. Comprehensive insurance could help cover your project from non-collision damage, theft, and vandalism until you can get it roadworthy.
Collectible: If you store a collectible or antique car that you don’t drive, classic car insurance can cover damage from things like natural disasters, theft, and vandalism. These types of cars may be unregistered if they’re undrivable or intended for display rather than use. But due to their value, many collectors still want to insure these vehicles.
To learn more, check out WalletHub’s guides to what car insurance covers and how to get it.
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