Best Cheap Non-Owner Car Insurance Companies

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Written by Bob Phillips
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When it comes to finding the best cheap non-owner car insurance, Geico stands out as the top choice. If you’re looking for the cheapest overall policy, State Farm is your best bet. And for those needing an SR-22, Auto-Owners Insurance offers the most affordable rates.

If you’re searching for non-owner car insurance, you’re in the right place. We understand the complexities of choosing the right policy and the importance of finding a balance between cost and coverage. Not selecting a good car insurance policy can lead to financial risks, legal issues, and a lack of coverage when you need it most.

With over 15 years of experience in the insurance industry, I’ve seen firsthand the impact of well-chosen policies. Let’s dive into the details of the best non-owner car insurance options available.

Best & Cheapest Non-Owner Car Insurance Companies, 2024

Mass-Mutual-icon-logo
Best Overall - GEICO
state-farm-icon-logo-red
Cheapest Overall - State Farm
Cheapest With An SR-22 - Auto-Owners
Best & Cheapest Non-Owner Car Insurance, 2024

Compare The Cheapest Non-Owner Car Insurance

Overall Rating Best For A.M Best Rating J.D Power Rating Local Company Sales Agent Presence Get A Quote
GEICO
4.9

Overall

A++

830

No

Instant Quote
State Farm
4.8

Cheapest

A++

838

Yes

Instant Quote
Auto-Owners
4.7

Cheapest with SR-22

A++

829

No

Instant Quote
Instant Quote
Scroll to see comparisons

Best & Cheapest Non-Owner Car Insurance Companies


Best Overall

Overall Rating
4.9

Key Statistics

10/10 Affordability
10/10 Customer Reviews
9/10 Claim Payouts
9/10 Coverage Level

Why We Like Them

GEICO is considered the best overall non-owner car insurance company for several compelling reasons.

First and foremost, GEICO offers some of the most competitive rates in the industry, providing a balance of affordability and comprehensive coverage that is hard to beat​. This makes it an excellent choice for individuals who need reliable insurance without owning a car.

Another factor that sets GEICO apart is its exceptional customer service and ease of access. It has consistently received high marks in customer satisfaction surveys, which is a testament to its commitment to providing excellent service. Its user-friendly website and mobile app make it easy for policyholders to manage their coverage, file claims, and get assistance whenever needed​​.

Moreover, GEICO’s strong financial health ensures that it can handle claims efficiently and effectively. Rated highly by AM Best and other financial rating agencies, its financial strength means that policyholders can trust the company to be there when they need it most​. This reliability is especially important for non-owner drivers who need assurance that their insurance will cover them adequately in various driving situations, whether they are renting a car or borrowing one from a friend.

Benefits & Drawbacks

Benefits
  • Affordable rates
  • User-friendly platform
  • Superior financial strength
Drawbacks
  • Limited local agents
  • No gap insurance
  • Coverage limitations

Cheapest Overall

Overall Rating
4.8

Key Statistics

10/10 Affordability
9/10 Customer Reviews
9/10 Claim Payouts
9/10 Coverage Level

Why We Like Them

State Farm’s affordability does not compromise the quality of coverage, as it provides essential liability protection, ensuring that drivers are well-covered without breaking the bank. This combination of low cost and comprehensive coverage makes State Farm an excellent choice for those seeking to minimize their insurance expenses.

In addition to its competitive pricing, State Farm’s extensive network and strong customer service set it apart. The company boasts a vast network of local agents, providing personalized service and support that is often lacking with online-only insurers​. State Farm’s reputation for reliability and customer satisfaction is well-established, with many customers praising the ease of filing claims and the helpfulness of its agents. This level of service and support is particularly beneficial for non-owner car insurance policyholders who may need assistance with their coverage or claims on short notice.

State Farm’s flexible policy options and additional discounts also enhance its appeal. State Farm offers a range of coverage options, allowing drivers to tailor their policies to meet specific needs. The company’s discounts, such as those for safe driving or bundling with other insurance products, further reduce costs​​. This flexibility and the potential for additional savings make State Farm not only the cheapest but also one of the most versatile non-owner car insurance providers available.

Benefits & Drawbacks

Benefits
  • Affordable rates
  • Local agents
  • Many discount options
Drawbacks
  • Limited digital tools
  • Coverage gaps
  • Mixed customer reviews

Cheapest With An SR-22

Overall Rating
4.7

Key Statistics

10/10 Affordability
9/10 Customer Reviews
9/10 Claim Payouts
8/10 Coverage Level

Why We Like Them

Auto-Owners Insurance is widely recognized as the best and cheapest option for non-owner car insurance with an SR-22 requirement. Its low cost, coupled with comprehensive liability coverage, ensures that drivers can maintain their legal driving status without excessive financial burden.

One of the standout features of Auto-Owners Insurance is its exceptional customer service and personalized approach. The company operates through a network of independent agents, which allows for tailored service and support that addresses individual customer needs. This personalized attention is important for drivers dealing with SR-22 requirements, as navigating the complexities of high-risk insurance can be challenging.

In addition to affordability and personalized service, Auto-Owners Insurance boasts strong financial stability and reputation for reliable claims handling. The company consistently receives high ratings from financial rating agencies such as AM Best, which underscores its ability to pay claims promptly and effectively​. For drivers with an SR-22, having a dependable insurer is paramount, as any lapse in coverage can result in severe penalties and further complications.

Benefits & Drawbacks

Benefits
  • Affordable SR-22 rates
  • Personalized service
  • Financial stability
Drawbacks
  • Limited online tools
  • Few coverage options
  • Mixed agent experiences

What Is Non-Owner Car Insurance?

Non-owner car insurance is a specialized type of liability coverage designed for individuals who don’t own a car but occasionally drive rental cars, borrowed vehicles, or car-sharing services. It primarily provides liability coverage, which includes bodily injury and property damage that you might cause while driving a vehicle you don’t own.

It does not cover damages to the vehicle you are driving or any personal injuries you may sustain. This type of car insurance is ideal for people who frequently rent cars, borrow cars from friends or family, or use car-sharing services like Zipcar​.

One of the key benefits of non-owner car insurance is that it helps drivers maintain continuous auto insurance coverage, which can be beneficial for keeping auto insurance rates low in the future. A lapse in coverage can lead to higher premiums when you do purchase a car and need standard auto insurance.

Additionally, non-owner car insurance is often required for high-risk drivers who need to file an SR-22 or FR-44, which is a state-required form proving that a driver carries the minimum required insurance coverage following certain violations, such as a DUI​.

Non-owner car insurance policies are generally less expensive than standard auto insurance policies because they don’t include coverage for physical damage to a vehicle. However, it is important to note that non-owner insurance does not cover every scenario. For example, it typically does not cover rental cars used for business purposes, vehicles owned by someone in your household, or vehicles you have regular access to.

Therefore, individuals considering non-owner car insurance should carefully evaluate their driving habits and insurance needs to determine if this type of policy is the right fit for them​

Average Cost Of Non-Owner Car Insurance

Understanding the average cost of non-owner car insurance can help you make an informed decision when selecting a policy. Non-owner car insurance is typically less expensive than standard auto insurance, as it only provides liability coverage and does not cover physical damage to a vehicle.

Costs can vary based on factors such as your driving history, location, and the insurance provider. Below is a table showing the average annual cost of non-owner car insurance for five major carriers.

Insurance Carrier Average Annual Cost
Geico $463
State Farm $213
Travelers $511
Progressive $638
Nationwide $698

Cheapest Non-Owner Car Insurance By State

Below is a comprehensive table showcasing the average cost of non-owner car insurance across all U.S. states, enabling you to compare and choose the best option for your specific needs.

State Annual Premium Monthly Premium
Alabama $532 $44
Alaska $437 $36
Arizona $534 $44
Arkansas $364 $30
California $492 $41
Colorado $517 $43
Connecticut $546 $46
Delaware $622 $52
District of Columbia $508 $42
Florida $886 $74
Georgia $463 $39
Hawaii $365 $30
Idaho $264 $22
Illinois $357 $30
Indiana $341 $28
Iowa $258 $22
Kansas $322 $27
Kentucky $568 $47
Louisiana $822 $69
Maine $425 $35
Maryland $545 $45
Massachusetts $589 $49
Michigan $1,343 $112
Minnesota $397 $33
Mississippi $448 $37
Missouri $582 $49
Montana $388 $32
Nebraska $335 $28
Nevada $706 $59
New Hampshire $370 $31
New Jersey $1,027 $86
New Mexico $516 $43
New York $901 $75
North Carolina $624 $52
North Dakota $260 $22
Ohio $532 $44
Oklahoma $390 $33
Oregon $597 $50
Pennsylvania $493 $41
Rhode Island $726 $61
South Carolina $675 $56
South Dakota $237 $20
Tennessee $360 $30
Texas $579 $48
Utah $530 $44
Vermont $317 $26
Virginia $445 $37
Washington $531 $44
West Virginia $424 $35
Wisconsin $365 $30
Wyoming $199 $17

Standard Vs Non-Owner Car Insurance

Standard car insurance is designed for individuals who own a vehicle. It typically includes a combination of liability coverage (for bodily injury and property damage you may cause to others), collision coverage (for damage to your own vehicle in the event of an accident), and comprehensive coverage (for non-collision-related damage to your vehicle, such as theft, fire, or natural disasters).

Non-owner car insurance, on the other hand, is intended for individuals who do not own a vehicle but still need liability coverage when driving cars they don’t own, such as rental cars or borrowed vehicles. This type of insurance provides bodily injury and property damage liability coverage, protecting the driver from financial responsibility for injuries or damage they cause while driving another person’s vehicle.

However, non-owner car insurance does not include collision or comprehensive coverage, meaning it will not cover damage to the vehicle being driven or the driver’s own injuries. Non-owner policies are generally cheaper than standard policies because they provide limited coverage and are typically used less frequently. They are also useful for maintaining continuous insurance coverage and for meeting SR-22 or FR-44 requirements for high-risk drivers.

Annual Rates For Owner Vs. Non-Owner Car Insurance

Car Owner Policy Non-Owner Policy
State Farm $213 $390
Average $516 $879
Geico $521 $1,101
Progressive $656 $748
Farmers $675 $1,278

How To Get Non-Owner Car Insurance

By following these steps, you can secure non-consumer car insurance that protects you while driving a car you don’t own, ensuring you’re covered in the event of an accident.

Assess Your Need For Non-Owner Car Insurance

Before you start shopping for non-owner car insurance, determine if this type of coverage fits your situation. You might need non-owner car insurance if you frequently rent vehicles, borrow cars from others, or need to maintain continuous coverage for legal or personal reasons, such as keeping a driver’s license active after a DUI or other serious violation requiring an SR-22/FR-44.

1

Shop Around For Quotes

Not all car insurance companies offer non-owner car insurance, and those that do may not advertise it prominently. Start by contacting major insurance companies directly— especially those you’ve had previous policies with, as they might offer discounts for returning customers.

Get quotes from Insuranceopedia for multiple providers to compare rates and coverage options. Be prepared to provide details about your driving history and the approximate amount of driving you plan to do.

2

Evaluate Coverage Limits

When obtaining quotes, consider how much coverage you need. Non-owner car insurance typically includes liability coverage but does not cover damages to the vehicle you are driving. Make sure the liability limits are sufficient to protect you in case of a serious accident—many experts recommend getting at least $100,000 per person and $300,000 per accident in bodily injury liability, plus property damage liability coverage.

3

Purchase The Policy

Once you find a policy that meets your needs at a price you’re comfortable with, you can usually purchase it over the phone or online. You will need to provide personal information and possibly some details about your driving history. If you require an SR-22 or FR-44, mention this during the purchasing process so the insurer can prepare the necessary documentation.

4

Maintain Your Policy

After purchasing non-owner car insurance, keep your policy active by paying premiums on time and renewing your policy as needed. Regularly review your coverage to ensure it still meets your needs, especially if your driving habits change. If you start driving more frequently or move to another state, you may need to adjust your coverage or switch providers.

5

Who Should Get Non-Owner Car Insurance?

Non-owner car insurance is an ideal solution for individuals who frequently drive vehicles they do not own. This includes people who regularly rent cars, borrow cars from friends or family, or use car-sharing services like Zipcar. For these drivers, non-owner car insurance provides essential liability coverage, ensuring that they’re protected in the event of an accident that causes bodily injury or property damage to others.

Additionally, this type of insurance can be beneficial for those who are between vehicles and want to maintain continuous coverage, which helps avoid lapses in insurance history that could lead to higher premiums when they eventually purchase a car and need standard auto insurance.

Another group that may require non-owner car insurance includes high-risk drivers who need to file an SR-22 or FR-44 form to prove financial responsibility after serious traffic violations like DUIs. Even if they don’t currently own a car, these drivers must have insurance to reinstate or maintain their driving privileges. Non-owner car insurance meets this requirement without the higher costs associated with insuring a vehicle.

It is also useful for individuals who occasionally drive company cars or other vehicles not owned by their household, as it provides an extra layer of liability protection that complements any existing coverage on the vehicle they’re driving.

Our Methodology

In our pursuit of delivering the most accurate and reliable insurance company ratings, we employ a comprehensive methodology. We review dozens of insurance companies, leveraging insights from multiple established insurance review sites. We also consider critical metrics from trusted industry leaders like A.M. Best and J.D. Power. Moreover, I bring my 15 years of experience as an insurance agent to the table, further enriching our analysis with first-hand knowledge and expertise.

82

Quotes Analyzed

15+

Years Of Industry Experience

54

Brands Reviewed

25+

Research Hours

FAQs

Can you get car insurance if you don’t own a car?

Yes, you can get non-owner car insurance if you don’t own a car. This type of insurance provides liability coverage when you drive rental cars or borrow vehicles from others.

What does non-owner car insurance cover?

Non-owner car insurance covers bodily injury and property damage liability. It protects you if you cause an accident while driving a car you don’t own, but it does not cover damage to the vehicle you’re driving or personal injuries.

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