What Is the Best Time to Shop for Car Insurance?

The best time to shop for car insurance is generally about three to four weeks before your current policy renews or after a major life event that could change your premium. However, you can shop for better coverage or rates at any time.

When looking for the best rate, it helps to know how often to shop for car insurance and when insurance companies typically adjust rates.

Auto insurers typically send out renewal notices about 30 to 45 days before your current policy expires. This window gives you a few weeks to review your coverage, compare quotes, and decide whether to switch insurers. 

Outside of your renewal window, there are several life triggers that may also influence how much you pay for your next term. Here’s a snapshot of the best times to shop for car insurance:

• At the end of the year: Some insurers refresh vehicle and pricing data in the fall, so you may see rates shift heading into year-end.¹ However, this varies by insurer and state, so there's no single 'best' month."

• Before a drop in your credit score: In most states, higher credit scores qualify for lower rates. It’s best to shop for a policy before opening new lines of credit or taking on other activities that could lower your credit score.

• Before or after your birthday: Younger drivers often see rates drop after a birthday as they gain experience. Rates tend to start increasing for older drivers at age 70, though some states limit the use of age as a rating factor.

• After a major life change: Buying a car, moving, or adding a teen driver to your policy are all reasons to re-shop.

Consumer Reports recommends shopping for better auto insurance rates every year, especially after life events that could affect your rates.²

Major life events could affect your car insurance rates, making them a good time to shop outside of your renewal period.

Here are some of the most common life events that trigger a shift in insurance rates:

• Getting married: Insurance companies often offer discounts for married couples.

• Buying a home or rental: A multi-policy discount is one of the easiest ways to save money.

• Moving addresses: Moving to a different ZIP code may cause a rate increase or decrease.

• Getting a new car: A change in vehicle type or number of household cars usually impacts rates.

• Improving credit score: A better credit score can lower your rates. 

• Aging violations or accidents: Tickets and accidents older than 3-5 years may qualify you for a lower rate.

• Changing commute mileage: A shorter commute could lower your rate.

There’s no wrong time to shop for car insurance, even if your renewal is months away. Luva’s conversational approach to getting car insurance quotes can help you feel confident getting the right coverage at the right price.

The best time to shop for car insurance is three to four weeks before your renewal. Early shopping gives you time to get comparable quotes, weigh your options, and purchase a new policy without a gap in coverage. 

However, you don’t have to wait until you get your renewal notice, especially if you’re concerned about a possible rate increase. In fact, you can switch to another company in the middle of a term if you choose to. 

Depending on your state’s laws, you may get some money back if you cancel your policy mid-term. In many states, you will get a pro-rated refund for the number of days the policy didn't insure you. Some state laws allow auto insurance companies to refund only part of what you paid. 

You can find the rules about premium refunds on your state insurance department website. 

Regardless of when you shop, be sure your new policy is issued before canceling your old policy to avoid a lapse in coverage.

When switching car insurance, use these tips to get the best coverage and rates:

• Shop early to explore all your options: You can get quotes online or from agents. 

• Know your driving record: With some companies, even a minor claim can change your rate. 

• Ask for discounts: Ask about all available discounts to see what you qualify for.

• Pay in full: You will likely pay less if you pay up front or in fewer installments than a monthly pay plan.

• Review life events: Note any recent changes that could affect your premium.

• Avoid a lapse: Cancel your current policy only after the new one is fully issued, as a lapse in coverage can cause higher rates. 

Luva shows real-time rates from insurers, allowing you to see your options side by side to help make decision-making simple and stress-free.