Standard classic car insurance policies typically include collision and comprehensive insurance and cover your car’s agreed value, rather than its actual cash value.
Classic cars in Arizona face risks of damage from extreme heat, wildfire, flash floods, and theft.
Arizona requires classic car owners to have special license plates instead of the standard vehicle plates.
What to know about classic car insurance in Arizona
If you have a classic, collectible, or antique car in Arizona, you’ll need a classic car insurance policy to protect your vehicle. Different from standard car insurance, which insures a car’s actual cash value, classic car insurance covers your vehicle’s agreed value.
All classic car owners must maintain at least Arizona’s minimum liability insurance requirements, but most standard classic car policies also include vehicle protection. You must also meet limited use and storage requirements to insure your vehicle with a classic car policy.
Arizona legally defines “classic cars” as those included in the Classic Car Club of America’s regularly updated list of vehicles.[1] A historic or antique car has a separate legal definition in Arizona, so insurance qualifications may vary slightly.[2]
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Do you qualify for classic car insurance in Arizona?
Owning an older car doesn’t automatically qualify you for a classic car insurance policy in Arizona. The following factors influence whether you can obtain a classic car insurance policy for your vehicle.
Limited use
Classic car insurance covers only vehicles not used for daily activities, like running errands or commuting to work. Most classic car insurance policies have annual or biannual mileage limits and may allow flexible use only in situations such as traveling to car shows or classic car club activities.
Secure storage
Many car insurance companies prefer that policyholders park their classic cars in places with lower risk factors, such as a garage. In some cases, you can temporarily de-insure your vehicle if you’re keeping it in storage or off of Arizona’s roadways for a prolonged period of time.[3]
Driving record
Even though you’ll likely drive your vintage vehicle only on limited occasions, your driving record still affects your ability to obtain coverage. Tickets, at-fault accidents, or DUIs on your driving record can lead to policy rejection.
How much is classic car insurance in Arizona?
The average cost of Arizona auto insurance for classic cars is $102 per month, according to Insurify data. This is lower than the U.S. average monthly cost of $112 per month for classic car insurance.
Insurance for classic cars in Arizona may cost less than a standard car insurance policy. For example, a standard full-coverage policy in the state costs an average of $163 per month.
Your collector car insurance quote will reflect your area’s unique risk factors. For example, the national transportation research nonprofit TRIP ranked Arizona No. 20 for states with the highest percentage of major rural roads in poor condition in 2024.[4]
Classic car insurance quotes may be higher in certain ZIP codes due to increased risk of damage. Certain areas in the state, including Maricopa County and Pima County, have high rates of vehicle theft.
Below, you can see how the average costs of classic and standard car insurance compare in Arizona.
Coverage Type | Average Monthly Cost in AZ |
|---|---|
| Classic car insurance | $102 |
| Standard car insurance | $127 |
Best antique car insurance companies in Arizona
Below, you can take a look at three of the best car insurance companies for classic car collectors living in Phoenix, Scottsdale, and other Arizona cities.
GEICO: Best overall
| User Reviews | 4.0 |
|---|---|
| IQ Score The Insurify Quality (IQ) Score uses more than 15 criteria to objectively rate insurance companies on a one-to-ten scale. The Insurify editorial team researches insurer data to determine the final scores. | 9.2 /10 |
| Liability Only Liability-only insurance, sometimes called minimum-coverage insurance, pays for bodily injury and property damage to others in an accident the policyholder causes. It does not pay for the insured’s own damages. | $82/mo |
| Full Coverage Full-coverage car insurance generally includes liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage, and may include other optional coverages such as uninsured motorist coverage. Collision covers a policyholder’s repair or replacement costs in case of an accident. Comprehensive covers damages caused by non-accident events. The average quote displayed here reflects policies with the following coverage limits: $50,000 bodily injury liability per person; $100,000 bodily injury liability per accident; $50,00 property damage liability per accident; $1,000 collision deductible; and a $1,000 comprehensive deductible. | $140/mo |
GEICO's score | Industry average | |
|---|---|---|
| Coverage options | 4.0 | 3.2 |
| Customer service | 4.1 | 3.6 |
| Discounts | 3.9 | 2.9 |
| Policy transparency | 4.0 | 3.1 |
| Value | 3.9 | 2.9 |
Customers appreciate the reliability and customer service but find the rates to be high and increase frequently, even without claims or accidents. The app has improved, but some find the claims process lacking.
GEICO’s parent company, Berkshire Hathaway, holds nearly 13% of the Copper State’s car insurance market share. GEICO’s classic car insurance, underwritten by Hagerty, includes Arizona’s mandated liability coverage, collision, and comprehensive coverage. You can also choose to add spare-parts coverage, towing and roadside assistance, and coverage for restoration-related needs.
Strong presence in Arizona
Offers guaranteed value for a covered total loss
No mileage limits set for coverage
Must store vehicle in a secure, enclosed structure
Need to have a standard car insurance policy with GEICO
Eligibility requirements vary by state
Auto-Owners: Lowest rates
| User Reviews | 4.3 |
|---|---|
| IQ Score The Insurify Quality (IQ) Score uses more than 15 criteria to objectively rate insurance companies on a one-to-ten scale. The Insurify editorial team researches insurer data to determine the final scores. | 8.2 /10 |
| Liability Only Liability-only insurance, sometimes called minimum-coverage insurance, pays for bodily injury and property damage to others in an accident the policyholder causes. It does not pay for the insured’s own damages. | $49/mo |
| Full Coverage Full-coverage car insurance generally includes liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage, and may include other optional coverages such as uninsured motorist coverage. Collision covers a policyholder’s repair or replacement costs in case of an accident. Comprehensive covers damages caused by non-accident events. The average quote displayed here reflects policies with the following coverage limits: $50,000 bodily injury liability per person; $100,000 bodily injury liability per accident; $50,00 property damage liability per accident; $1,000 collision deductible; and a $1,000 comprehensive deductible. | $84/mo |
Auto-Owners's score | Industry average | |
|---|---|---|
| Coverage options | 4.0 | 3.2 |
| Customer service | 3.7 | 3.6 |
| Discounts | 3.5 | 2.9 |
| Policy transparency | 4.0 | 3.1 |
| Value | 3.5 | 2.9 |
Customers appreciate the friendly service and quick claims process but dislike the constant rate increases and perceived inflexibility in pricing.
Auto-Owners has some of the lowest average rates in Arizona for drivers who need an auto insurance policy for their everyday car and their classic car. Auto-Owners offers specialized classic car coverage, but it doesn’t include information about available coverage options on its website. Drivers must request more information from an independent agent.
Multi-car discount for more savings
Low average rates for primary car coverage
A++ (Superior) financial strength rating from AM Best
Below-average J.D. Power customer satisfaction score in the Southwest region
Agreed value depends on certain requirements
Must get quotes/policy through an independent agent
State Farm: Competitive rates and coverages
| User Reviews | 4.1 |
|---|---|
| IQ Score The Insurify Quality (IQ) Score uses more than 15 criteria to objectively rate insurance companies on a one-to-ten scale. The Insurify editorial team researches insurer data to determine the final scores. | 9.3 /10 |
| Liability Only Liability-only insurance, sometimes called minimum-coverage insurance, pays for bodily injury and property damage to others in an accident the policyholder causes. It does not pay for the insured’s own damages. | $60/mo |
| Full Coverage Full-coverage car insurance generally includes liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage, and may include other optional coverages such as uninsured motorist coverage. Collision covers a policyholder’s repair or replacement costs in case of an accident. Comprehensive covers damages caused by non-accident events. The average quote displayed here reflects policies with the following coverage limits: $50,000 bodily injury liability per person; $100,000 bodily injury liability per accident; $50,00 property damage liability per accident; $1,000 collision deductible; and a $1,000 comprehensive deductible. | $104/mo |
State Farm's score | Industry average | |
|---|---|---|
| Coverage options | 4.1 | 3.2 |
| Customer service | 4.4 | 3.6 |
| Discounts | 3.9 | 2.9 |
| Policy transparency | 3.9 | 3.1 |
| Value | 3.7 | 2.9 |
Customers appreciate the insurer’s excellent customer service and personal attention but dislike the high prices and frequent rate increases. They also express frustration with the claims process.
State Farm offers classic car coverage with up to $500 in spare-parts coverage as well as an agreed-upon value payment if you total your vehicle. Like GEICO, State Farm also offers classic car insurance through Hagerty. This coverage includes features like reimbursement if you have to move your vehicle from threats of wildfires or flash floods in Arizona.
Under-construction coverage available for restoration projects
High J.D. Power rating in the Southwest region
State Farm Classic+ through Hagerty available in Arizona
Classic car must meet condition and maintenance requirements
Must store the car in an enclosed building
Some competitors have cheaper rates for primary car insurance
How we chose the best classic car insurance companies in Arizona
Our editorial team analyzed regional and national auto insurance companies that sell classic car policies in Arizona to assess which offer the best rates, coverage options, customer service, and savings to drivers. We prioritized competitive rates, 24/7 customer service, low-mileage discounts or programs, safe driving discounts, homeownership discounts or bundling options, and specialty or supplemental coverages.
How classic car insurance policies work in Arizona
A standard auto policy protects new and used vehicles, which typically depreciate in value and require routine maintenance and repairs. A classic car insurance policy is for older vehicles that appreciate in value and require special maintenance and repairs.
Here’s what you should know about how your classic car insurance policy in Arizona will work:
Agreed-upon value: You and your insurance company will determine the value based on your car’s upgrades, features, or specific maintenance that increases its value. For example, a 1967 Shelby GT350 is a limited edition vehicle that may be more valuable than others if it has a dealer-installed supercharger and upgraded disc brakes.
Limited use: Most car insurance companies track your classic car’s mileage. Some insurers have strict limits, while others may allow for additional mileage to drive from Scottsdale to Las Vegas for a car show. In some cases, your insurer may track your mileage for each policy period to ensure you stay below the set limit.
Secure storage: Most classic car insurance policies require you to store the vehicle in a secure, enclosed space to prevent damage. You also need to consider the role your environment plays. Phoenix classic car owners deal with temperatures above 110°F in the summer, which can harm a car’s mechanical and cosmetic features. Storing it in an enclosed garage can prevent these damages.
How to pick coverage limits for classic car insurance
Classic car insurance observes a car’s value as agreed upon when the insurer writes the policy. Standard auto insurance assesses a car by its actual cash value, including depreciation, at the time of an accident.
For example, a brand-new vehicle may cost $40,000 when you buy it but have a depreciated value of $35,000 one year later. If you have an accident, your maximum payout won’t exceed the actual cash value of $35,000. But a classic car with an agreed-upon value of $40,000 will receive that as a guaranteed payout, minus any deductibles.
When insurers determine the agreed value of your vehicle, they will typically consider appraisals, photos, and other documentation about your car.
In Arizona, you may receive higher or lower agreed-upon values for your vehicles, depending on where you live. For example, you may receive a higher agreed value for your vehicle in Scottsdale than elsewhere because it has a community of classic car collectors and regular events.
What classic car insurance covers
All classic car insurance policies should at least provide Arizona’s minimum liability coverage. Depending on your insurer, you should also have the option to add the following coverages to your classic car insurance policy:
Physical damage: Most classic car policies include comprehensive and collision coverage to protect against unexpected events, such as a fender bender at the Arizona International Auto Show.
Special towing: This covers transporting your vehicle to a safe location in an extreme situation, such as during an evacuation due to a flash flood or wildfire.
Spare parts: When repairing or replacing parts, many insurance companies ensure that you receive OEM parts if available.
Specialized repairs: Many insurance companies offer you the choice of a repair shop to ensure your collectible car receives the specific care it needs.
Roadside assistance: This likely includes a battery jump-start or tow if your classic car overheats.
Does Arizona require classic car insurance?
Arizona doesn’t have additional coverage limits specific to classic car insurance policies. All vehicles must maintain Arizona’s minimum insurance requirements, including:[5]
Bodily injury liability: $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident
Property damage liability: $15,000 per accident
Though the state doesn’t require uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage, if you do elect to buy it, you have to purchase it in the same amount as your bodily injury liability.
If you don’t have at least the state’s minimum liability coverage requirements for your classic vehicle, you can face the following penalties:[6]
First violation: $500 fine and a possible license suspension of up to six months
Second violation in 36 months: $750 fine and a possible six-month suspension of your license, registration, and license plates
Third violation in 36 months: $1,000 fine and a possible year-long suspension of license, registration, and license plates
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Risks for classic cars in Arizona
Owning a classic car in Arizona comes with risks. Unpredictable events like car accidents and severe weather can lead to claims that may increase your monthly premiums.
Here are a few risks to keep in mind as a classic car owner in Arizona:
Weather damage: Arizona leads the country in auto glass claims, according to the National Insurance Crime Bureau.[7] Wildfires, flooding, and hail from monsoon thunderstorms can cause damage to windows and windshields.
Theft: Maricopa County sits in the top 10 counties for thefts by volume in the United States, and Pima County ranks No. 52.
Other drivers: In Arizona, about 4% of drivers have a past speeding ticket, 4% have an at-fault accident, and nearly 1% of drivers have a past DUI on their record.
Storage issues: Storing a classic car in a carport or basic garage may not provide maximum protection from vandalism, weather damage, or theft.
Classic car insurance in Arizona FAQs
The following information can help answer your remaining questions while shopping for classic car insurance in Arizona.
What qualifies a vehicle as ‘classic’ in Arizona?
Arizona identifies classic cars as vehicles listed in the Classic Car Club of America’s list of classic cars, which the organization updates every five years. To buy classic car insurance, you’ll need to meet the insurer’s usage and storage guidelines.
What are the mileage limits for classic car insurance?
Mileage limits for classic car insurance vary by insurance company. Some insurers, like American Collectors Insurance, have a low monthly mileage limit, while others, like Chubb, have no mileage limits on hobby cars.
What factors affect the cost of classic car insurance in Arizona?
Classic car insurance costs in Arizona vary based on your vehicle characteristics, as well as how you insure it, where you store it, and how, when, and whether you drive it. The deductible level you choose and your driving record will also influence how much you pay for coverage each month.
Do you need standard liability insurance if you have a classic policy?
Yes, all vehicles must meet Arizona’s minimum liability insurance requirements. A classic car insurance policy usually includes these state-required bodily injury and property damage coverages.
Sources
- Arizona State Legislature. "License plates for classic cars."
- Arizona State Legislature. "License plates for historic vehicles."
- Arizona Department of Transportation. "Insurance Information and Requirements."
- National Transportation Research Nonprofit. "Top 25 States with Highest Percentage of Major Rural Roads in Poor Condition Infographic – September 2024."
- Arizona Department of Insurance & Financial Institutions. "Vehicle Insurance."
- Arizona State Legislature. "Motor vehicle financial responsibility requirement."
- National Insurance Crime Bureau. "Arizona Leads the Nation in Auto Glass Claims."
Methodology
Insurify data scientists analyzed more than 250 million quotes served to car insurance applicants in Insurify’s proprietary database to calculate the premium averages displayed on this page. These premiums are real quotes that come directly from Insurify’s 500+ partner insurance companies in all 50 states and Washington, D.C. Quote averages represent the median price for a quote across the given coverage level, driver subset, and geographic area.
Unless otherwise specified, quoted rates reflect the average cost for drivers between 20 and 70 years old with a clean driving record and average or better credit (a credit score of 600 or higher).
Liability-only premium averages correspond to policies with the following coverage limits:
- Bodily injury limits between state-minimum rates and $50,000 per person, $100,000 per accident
- Property damage limits between $10,000 and $50,000
- No additional coverage
- Comprehensive coverage with a $1,000 deductible
- Collision coverage with a $1,000 deductible
Quotes for Allstate, Farmers, GEICO, State Farm, and USAA are estimates based on Quadrant Information Services’ database of auto insurance rates.
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