Temporary Car Insurance in California (2024)
It can be difficult to find temporary car insurance in California. Learn about some ways to obtain a short-term policy.
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Written byMelanie Lockert
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10+ years writing on personal finance topics
Host of the Mental Health and Wealth podcast
Melanie is a blogger, author, and speaker specializing in personal finance and debt management. She’s also the author of the blog and book “Dear Debt.”
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Edited byChris Schafer
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15+ years in content creation
7+ years in business and financial services content
Chris is a seasoned writer/editor with past experience across myriad industries, including insurance, SAS, finance, Medicare, logistics, marketing/advertising, and many more.
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Reviewed byShawn Powers
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Licensed insurance agent for 25+ years
15 years as VP of Sales and Operations at Answer Financial
Licensed in more than 40 states, Shawn leverages his deep industry expertise to support the accuracy and trustworthiness of Insurify’s content.
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Updated November 20, 2024
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Table of contents
Whether you’re borrowing a friend’s car, renting a vehicle, or you’re a college student or a military member looking to store your car, you might wonder if temporary car insurance in California is available. The majority of car insurance companies offer policies of six or 12 months, with the average cost of liability insurance at $140 per month in California.
Though you might not find many options for a shorter term, you can typically cancel your car insurance coverage at any time, and you have other options to look into.
Quick Facts
Temporary car insurance in California may be challenging to get from major insurers.
California drivers can look into rental car insurance, pay-per-mile coverage, and non-owner insurance as possible temporary car insurance solutions.
While you can cancel your policy early, be aware of risks due to lapses in coverage and potential cancellation fees.
Best temporary car insurance in California
Temporary car insurance in California can be difficult to find from major insurance companies, but you have different options to look into that can fit your needs.
Here, you’ll find three of the best temporary car insurance companies in California based on cost, Insurify Quality Score, J.D. Power ratings, and coverage options.
State Farm: Best for non-owner car insurance
| User Reviews | 4.2 |
|---|---|
| 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. | $188/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. | $381/mo |
4.2
Best choiceBased on 9036 verified guest reviews and ratings
How drivers feel about State Farm
Drivers appreciate the helpful local agents and initial service but dislike the high prices and frequent rate increases.
AI-generated from the text of verified reviews collected by Insurify
Best For
Customer service
Competitive rates
Discounts for safe drivers
How drivers feel about State Farm
Drivers appreciate the helpful local agents and initial service but dislike the high prices and frequent rate increases.
AI-generated from the text of verified reviews collected by Insurify
Best For
Customer service
Competitive rates
Discounts for safe drivers
Reviews (4,969)
Ronald
November 19, 2024
Verified Review
State Farm Experience: 35 Years+
They are forcing me to replace my house roof or they will cancel my policy.
David
November 19, 2024
Verified Review
Too expensive
It's too expensive. They raise rates every six months, even though I've never filed a claim.
Ronald
November 18, 2024
Verified Review
Very Expensive Auto and Home
Extremely harsh local service.
JD Power
J.D. Power data measures overall customer satisfaction and claims satisfaction based on a 1,000-point scale.
817NAIC Index
Average amount of customer complaints relative to competitors on a 0-5 scale. A lower score represents fewer complaints.
0.78A.M. Best
A.M. Best analyzes an insurer’s financials, operating performance, business profile, and other factors to generate an opinion-based rating of a company’s financial and credit strength. Ratings range from A++ (exceptional) to D (poor).
A++Why we picked this company
While State Farm doesn’t have the cheapest rates for temporary car insurance in California, the company stands out in a number of ways. State Farm was highly rated in the J.D. Power 2024 U.S. Auto Insurance Study in California, which looks at overall customer satisfaction. Additionally, State Farm offers non-owner car insurance exclusively to California drivers.
Pros
Above-average J.D. Power customer satisfaction rating in California
Bundling discounts available
Nation’s leading insurer, based on number of policies written
Cons
Only available through State Farm insurance agents
Not the most affordable option
Doesn’t offer gap insurance
USAA: Best for military storage
| User Reviews | 4.9 |
|---|---|
| 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. | 9.4 /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. | $123/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. | $248/mo |
4.9
Best choiceBased on 1602 verified guest reviews and ratings
How drivers feel about USAA
Drivers appreciate the ease of working with the carrier, competitive rates, and responsive service but dislike the price increases and lack of rideshare add-ons in some areas.
AI-generated from the text of verified reviews collected by Insurify
Best For
Members of the military community
Outstanding customer service
Competitive rates
How drivers feel about USAA
Drivers appreciate the ease of working with the carrier, competitive rates, and responsive service but dislike the price increases and lack of rideshare add-ons in some areas.
AI-generated from the text of verified reviews collected by Insurify
Best For
Members of the military community
Outstanding customer service
Competitive rates
Reviews (914)
Gloria
November 15, 2024
Verified Review
Not Good for Claims
I have storm damage and the claim process is not satisfactory.
Martin
November 11, 2024
Verified Review
Price Shopping
I have been with USAA for over 60 years. Obviously, I've been very happy. Since I don't drive very far, I have been seeing advertisements for lower prices. However, I have no plans of leaving USAA.
Rena Sabine
November 8, 2024
Verified Review
Disappointing and inflexible service
My experience with this company has been disappointing, especially this second time around. I would suggest considering other options. From my recent interactions, they have been dismissive and argumentative. I have already started finalizing my next premium with another company. I'm perplexed as to how they receive praise when they treat clients in this manner.
JD Power
J.D. Power data measures overall customer satisfaction and claims satisfaction based on a 1,000-point scale.
876NAIC Index
Average amount of customer complaints relative to competitors on a 0-5 scale. A lower score represents fewer complaints.
1.35A.M. Best
A.M. Best analyzes an insurer’s financials, operating performance, business profile, and other factors to generate an opinion-based rating of a company’s financial and credit strength. Ratings range from A++ (exceptional) to D (poor).
A++Why we picked this company
USAA offers competitive rates and a variety of insurance and financial products for military members, veterans, and their family members.
If you’re a military member, you might be looking for temporary car insurance in California to lower costs while storing your car. USAA is the best option, as the insurer offers a storage discount and a military on-base discount of up to 15%.
Pros
Competitive rates
Military-specific discounts
Industry-leading J.D. Power customer satisfaction rating
Cons
Pay-as-you-drive option, Noblr, isn’t available in California
Must call to cancel car insurance
Only available to military members and their families
Mercury: Best for pay-per-mile insurance
| User Reviews | 3.6 |
|---|---|
| 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. | 8.0 /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. | $104/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. | $190/mo |
3.6
A solid optionBased on 474 verified guest reviews and ratings
How drivers feel about Mercury
Drivers appreciate the exceptional service, fair prices, and attentive support, but some find the premiums can increase unexpectedly.
AI-generated from the text of verified reviews collected by Insurify
Best For
Competitive rates
Rideshare drivers
Numerous discounts
How drivers feel about Mercury
Drivers appreciate the exceptional service, fair prices, and attentive support, but some find the premiums can increase unexpectedly.
AI-generated from the text of verified reviews collected by Insurify
Best For
Competitive rates
Rideshare drivers
Numerous discounts
Reviews (260)
Patricia
November 4, 2024
Verified Review
Too Expensive
It's way overpriced. I'm shopping now.
Carol
November 2, 2024
Verified Review
Auto Insurance Costs Rise in Sanctuary States
They are very good if needed, but even without any tickets or accidents, their prices continue to climb higher.
Patricia
November 1, 2024
Verified Review
Excellent Service
I have not had any problems with the service, but one employee, in particular, goes beyond her responsibility with me.
JD Power
J.D. Power data measures overall customer satisfaction and claims satisfaction based on a 1,000-point scale.
827NAIC Index
Average amount of customer complaints relative to competitors on a 0-5 scale. A lower score represents fewer complaints.
0.48A.M. Best
A.M. Best analyzes an insurer’s financials, operating performance, business profile, and other factors to generate an opinion-based rating of a company’s financial and credit strength. Ratings range from A++ (exceptional) to D (poor).
AWhy we picked this company
California drivers can lower their costs by up to 20% through Mercury RealDrive. This program looks at your odometer and mileage to determine your rate and is available to Californians. Mercury also offers some of the cheapest rates in the state.
Pros
Very low rates
Multiple discounts available
Rideshare insurance available
Cons
Below-average J.D. Power customer satisfaction rating in California
Poor Better Business Bureau (BBB) rating
Basic coverage options
To choose the top companies for temporary car insurance in California, we looked at multiple factors as part of our ranking. These include average costs of car insurance, ratings, discount options, customer service, and Insurify Quality Scores.
Cheapest short-term car insurance in California
Drivers in the Golden State have many options for car insurance coverage. To get temporary car insurance in California, you typically need to get a six-month policy and cancel your coverage when you no longer need it.
If you’re looking for a short-term car insurance policy, here’s a list of the cheapest options, starting at $72 per month. Your specific insurance rates depend on your age, whether you’ve had an accident, your claims history, type of vehicle, ZIP code, and the level and duration of coverage.
Insurance Company ▲▼ | Average Monthly Quote ▲▼ |
|---|---|
| Sun Coast | $72 |
| Mercury | $93 |
| Anchor | $100 |
| USAA | $113 |
| National General | $131 |
| GEICO | $151 |
| Direct Auto | $154 |
Disclaimer: Table data sourced from real-time quotes from Insurify's 50-plus partner insurance providers. Actual quotes may vary based on the policy buyer's unique driver profile.
Find Cheap Car Insurance in California
Liability rates start as low as $60 per month
Secure. Free. Easy-to-use.
Based on 3,806+ reviews
4.8/5
Options for temporary car insurance
Though temporary car insurance in California isn’t widely available, some solid alternatives can help you pay less for insurance coverage. The best option for you will depend on your situation and overall needs.
Here, you can review the different options available to you in California.
Pay-as-you-go car insurance: Best for remote workers
As more people work from home, pay-as-you-go car insurance has become a popular choice. Pay-as-you-go car insurance is different from traditional insurance, as your premiums vary each month. For example, usage-based insurance offers a base rate and a fluctuating rate that depends on how much you drive and other factors.
On one hand, this is a temporary auto insurance option to consider to save on costs. On the other hand, some insurers require you to download an app or use a device that tracks your vehicle, which isn’t ideal for people who value privacy.
Non-owner car insurance: Best for borrowing cars
A non-owner policy is a type of car insurance that provides liability coverage for you if you’re driving a vehicle that you don’t own. While the primary owner’s car insurance typically covers other drivers, non-owner car insurance can make sure you have enough liability coverage. Having insufficient coverage can put you at risk.
If you borrow cars frequently from friends and family, getting a non-owner car insurance policy can make sense and be a good option. Allstate and State Farm offer non-owner car insurance in California.
This specific insurance policy is generally more affordable than standard auto insurance.
Pay-per-mile car insurance: Best for low-mileage drivers
A pay-per-mile policy allows you to get an insurance premium with a base rate and per-mile rate. So, instead of a flat rate, your car insurance rates can fluctuate based on how much you drive. This type of car insurance works best for low-mileage drivers who don’t rack up a ton of miles each year, typically fewer than 7,000–10,000 miles annually.[1]
Pay-per-mile car insurance from an insurer like Metromile can be a good choice to reduce your overall costs. If you drive less, you can lower your monthly car insurance costs. But your base rate will vary by your personal driving history, and this coverage isn’t the best option if you end up needing to drive more than normal.
Rental car insurance: Best for renting vehicles
If you don’t own a vehicle and you want to rent one for a road trip or excursion, you’ll need to get insurance from the rental car company. This can protect you if you’re involved in an incident and there’s a loss, such as property damage.[2] If you have a car, your auto insurance policy will typically extend to the rental. You can also check your credit card benefits, as some offer rental car insurance as a perk.
Compare California Car Insurance Quotes
Compare rates from the nation’s leading insurance companies
Secure. Free. Easy-to-use.
Based on 3,806+ reviews
4.8/5
Pros and cons of temporary car insurance
Getting short-term car insurance can feel like a good idea if you need auto insurance for only a specific time. But the best way to find the right insurance for you is to review the pros and cons of temporary car insurance beforehand.
Pros
Not widely available
Fits your needs
Able to customize your coverage
Cons
Risk of lapsed coverage
Potential for scams
Limited coverage and protection
Temporary car insurance in California FAQs
If you’re looking for temporary car insurance in California, this additional information can help.
Can you get temporary insurance in California?
Temporary car insurance in California isn’t typically available from major auto insurance companies. The standard length for a car insurance policy is six months, though terms can vary from one month to one year.[3] You can cancel a six-month policy early or get non-owner insurance.
What is the shortest term for car insurance?
For most major insurers, the shortest term for car insurance is six months. Pay-as-you-go and pay-per-mile insurance are other alternatives to look into as well.
Can you drive a car without insurance in California if you just bought it?
If you just purchased a vehicle in California, it’s illegal for you to drive without car insurance. You must carry coverage that meets at least the state’s minimum requirements. Additionally, car dealerships also require proof of insurance.
What types of coverage does temporary car insurance include in California?
To get temporary car insurance in California, you can purchase a six-month policy and cancel it before the term ends. You can also look into a pay-per-mile car insurance policy, rental car insurance, and non-owner car insurance.
Methodology
Insurify data scientists analyzed more than 90 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 50+ 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.
Related articles
More cities in California
Sources
- Kelley Blue Book. "What Do Insurance Companies Consider Low Mileage?."
- Insurance Information Institute. "Rental car insurance."
- California Department of Insurance. "Automobile Insurance Text Version."
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Melanie Lockert
Melanie Lockert is the founder of the blog and author of the book, "Dear Debt." Through her blog, she chronicled her journey out of $81,000 in student loan debt. Her work has appeared on Allure, Business Insider, Credit Karma, Fortune, and more. She is also the co-founder of the Lola Retreat and host of the Mental Health and Wealth show podcast. She lives in Los Angeles and enjoys jazz music, traveling, coffee, and spending time with her two cats and partner.
15+ years in content creation
7+ years in business and financial services content
Chris is a seasoned writer/editor with past experience across myriad industries, including insurance, SAS, finance, Medicare, logistics, marketing/advertising, and many more.
Featured in
Licensed insurance agent for 25+ years
15 years as VP of Sales and Operations at Answer Financial
Licensed in more than 40 states, Shawn leverages his deep industry expertise to support the accuracy and trustworthiness of Insurify’s content.
Featured in
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