Auto Insurance Coverage When Driving in a Different State

After you’ve purchased a car, you probably cringe at the idea of shelling out even more money for auto insurance. In an attempt to save a little money, some Las Vegas, Nevada drivers register their vehicle in their home state and insure it in another state with lower rates, like Arizona. Unfortunately, this can have some serious consequences that aren’t worth the minimal savings that may be enjoyed.

Auto Insurance Requirements Vary Across the Country

Auto insurance coverage can be confusing, largely because insurance laws and requirements vary greatly from one state to another. As a Nevada driver, you’re required to carry liability insurance in the amounts of 25/50/20 (learn more about state minimum coverage here). However, in states like Arizona where coverage runs cheaper, state minimum coverage is a little skimpier. If you were pulled over and couldn’t prove that you had enough auto insurance for the state that you live in and your vehicle is registered in, you could face a hefty fine.​

Special Circumstances With Auto Insurance

While most people will simply have their vehicle insured in the state they live in, there are occasionally circumstances that make matters a little confusing.

Gifting a Vehicle

In most states, when a vehicle is registered, the vehicle’s owner must provide proof of insurance. So, what happens if you were gifted a vehicle by someone who lives outside of Nevada? Well, if the vehicle’s insurer discovers that the vehicle is garaged anywhere other than the state in which its insurance policy was issued, the policy may be affected, potentially leaving you without coverage.

Out-of-state insurance is not accepted in Nevada, and driving without valid insurance could result in large fines. Your Nevada Insurance Enrollment auto insurance agent can help you ensure that you are properly covered.

Active-Duty Service Members

In most cases, military personnel can have a declared state of residence, and many insurers allow active-duty service members to set up a policy in the state of their choosing, regardless of where they’re stationed.

Temporarily Living Out-of-State

If you’re temporarily living in a different state as a college student, or you’re working in another state for a few weeks or months, and you brought your vehicle with you, you can generally keep your home state’s auto insurance coverage. As long as your permanent residence hasn’t changed, you might not need to change your insurance policy.

It’s always a good idea to talk to your Nevada Insurance Enrollment insurance agent to discuss whether an out-of-state policy in a temporary situation is an issue that could have unfortunate consequences.

Getting the Best Auto Insurance Rate with Nevada Insurance Enrollment

With Nevada Insurance Enrollment, you don’t need to game the system to get a great rate on auto insurance. Our insurance agents can help you figure out the best coverage for your needs and find the provider that will give you the best rates and service available to you in Las Vegas, Nevada.​