If you don’t own a vehicle, you still likely have places to be. Between running errands, work, and maintaining social obligations, there’s a lot going on. When driving a vehicle often, you’re going to still need coverage even if you don’t own it. Known as non-owner car insurance, the policy is a safety net to protect you in the event of an accident. Our guide explains how it all works, who needs it, and everything else you need to know.

What Is Non-Owner Car Insurance and Who Needs It?

Non-owner car insurance is a special type of policy for people who drive but don’t actually own a vehicle. It’s designed to cover you, not the car,  in case of an accident.

This type of insurance is perfect for drivers who rent cars often, borrow vehicles from friends or family, or need liability coverage to reinstate their license after an SR-22.

Non-owner auto insurance offers affordable liability protection when you drive someone else’s car, without paying for full coverage. Free The Insurance helps you compare auto quotes from top-rated carriers to find the right protection at the best price.

What Does Non-Owner Car Insurance Cover?

A non-owner policy gives you essential protection while keeping costs low. Here’s what this form of auto insurance usually includes, and what it doesn’t:

• Liability Coverage: Pays for injuries or property damage you cause in an accident.
• Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage: Protects you if the other driver doesn’t have enough insurance.
• Medical Payments (MedPay) or Personal Injury Protection (PIP): Covers your medical expenses in some states.

What It Doesn’t Cover

• Damage to the car you’re driving.
• Cars you own, lease, or use regularly.
• Vehicles in your household or company cars.

Coverage Type	Included in Non-Owner Policy	Notes
Liability	Yes	Covers others’ injuries or property damage
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist	Yes	Optional in some states
Medical Payments / PIP	Yes	Depends on the state
Collision / Comprehensive	No	Not available
Car You Own	No	Must buy a regular policy

How Much Is Non-Owner Car Insurance?

Non-owner car insurance usually costs $200–$800 per year, depending on your location and driving record.

It’s cheaper than standard coverage since it doesn’t insure a vehicle, but in some cases, joining an existing policy may be more affordable. Comparing quotes is the best way to know.

Factors That Affect The Cost Of Car Insurance For Non-Car Owners

The things that affect how much you pay for coverage as a non-owner are similar to those who own vehicles.

Your driving record, how much coverage you need, the requirements of your state, SR-22 filings, how often you drive, etc., are all factors that come into play.

There are a lot of moving parts, and it’s different for everyone. For these reasons and more, comparing quotes is the only way to understand what the cost of coverage looks like for your needs.

Who Should Consider Non-Owner Car Insurance?

Non-owner coverage isn’t for everyone. For some drivers, it’s a smart move that provides essential protection without the full cost of ownership. For others, it’s not the best route to protect or save.

Here is a closer look at who these policies work best for:

Great Option For	Why It Helps
Frequent Car Renters	Adds liability coverage beyond rental company plans
People Who Borrow Cars	Protects you when driving a friend or family member’s car
Drivers Between Cars	Keeps continuous coverage to avoid rate spikes later
SR-22 Requirements	Helps you maintain license eligibility after a violation
Car-Sharing Users (Zipcar, Turo)	Covers liability in case of accidents while sharing

Keep in mind that you might not need it if you never drive, are always a passenger, or only drive vehicles insured under your household policy.

How to Get Non-Owner Car Insurance

Enrolling in non-owner insurance is easier than most drivers realize. Here’s how to get started, step-by-step:

• Check your driving record. Make sure there are no suspensions or outstanding SR-22 requirements.
• Compare quotes from multiple carriers. Remember, rates and features vary widely.
• Choose your coverage limits. Most states have minimum requirements, but you can raise them for more protection.
• Complete the application. Provide your driver’s license number and other details.
• Get your proof of insurance. You’ll receive a digital or paper insurance card you can show anytime you drive.

Best Non-Owner Car Insurance Companies

While most major insurers offer non-owner policies, each company tailors its coverage differently. Here’s a quick comparison of some of the more popular options available:

Company	Best For	Highlights
GEICO	Low rates & easy digital access	Great mobile app and broad availability
State Farm	Drivers who want local agents	In-person support and customizable limits
Progressive	Drivers with SR-22 needs	Flexible options and fast filings
Nationwide	Bundlers & long-term policyholders	Strong customer satisfaction
Travelers	Drivers who rent cars often	Reliable liability coverage
Dairyland / The General	High-risk drivers	SR-22 filing available and affordable payments

Regardless of the name, the key to having the right coverage, even if you don’t own a vehicle, is enrolling with the right carrier for your needs and budget.

Since everyone is different, each carrier offers its own unique coverage, and each company looks at the risk factors of each driver differently, it pays to compare multiple brands, big or small, when shopping.

Does Non-Owner Car Insurance Cover Rental Cars?

Yes, but only liability coverage. You’ll still need to buy the rental company’s damage waiver or use a credit card with rental coverage to protect the car itself. Remember, a non-owner auto policy aims to protect you as the driver, not the vehicle.

When Non-Owner Car Insurance Might Not Be Right for You

You might not need non-owner coverage if:

• You own or lease a car.
• You share a car with someone in your household.
• Your employer or rental company already provides full coverage.

Instead, look into short-term rental coverage or temporary auto policies that fit your situation better.

How Free The Insurance Helps Non-Owner Drivers

Even if you don’t own a vehicle, you still deserve the best coverage for your protection and pocketbook. That’s where we come in. At Free The Insurance, we help drivers make an informed decision by:

• Comparing quotes from top-rated carriers in Texas, Missouri, Tennessee, and Colorado.
• Identifying whether or not non-owner policies offer the best protection and lowest cost.
• Providing quick proof of insurance for rentals or SR-22 needs.
• Keeping you insured between vehicles, policies, or whatever else life throws at you, without having you overpay for unused coverage.

Our process is transparent, and our results speak for themselves. Compare top-rated options for non-owner car insurance and determine which option works best for you with ease. Contact our experts by calling the number at the top of the page.

Sources:

FindLaw. Accessed November 2025.