An exciting move to a new state is stressful. So you’ve got your life divided into two piles of little boxes. You anticipate a new job, relationships, and surroundings. However, you must also deal with the stress of moving. Enroll in utilities. Stock the fridge. You haven’t unpacked your child’s lunchbox. Aside from daily duties, you must also comply with regulatory procedures, such as to insure your car in a new state.
It’s difficult enough to move to a new state. That’s why we’ve broken down the process into four easy steps.
Step 1: Finish it
It would be tough to insure a car right away if you move to a new state. That’s why states give you a grace period to get a new license, registration, and insurance. Take the first week after moving to settle in and take care of the important details before worrying about auto insurance.
The number of days you have to obtain new driving documents varies by state, so check your new state’s DMV website for details. However, you must transfer your license, registration, and insurance within 30 to 90 days of moving. Incomplete duties may result in fines and additional delays.
The most important thing to remember is not to cancel your existing policy before getting a new one. Driving without insurance is unlawful, and the legal and financial consequences might be severe. Keep your current auto insurance policy and focus on your immediate moving needs.
Step 2: Get a new auto policy
After a few days of settling in, you should start looking to insure your car is in your new state. Most jurisdictions need evidence of insurance before registering a car, so changing your policy should be your first step.
You may be able to keep your insurer.
If your current insurer offers coverage in your new state, you may be able to keep it. This will save you time and keep any loyalty savings you’ve earned. Even if you continue with your current insurer, your rates and coverage may change to reflect your new neighborhood’s hazards and the state’s minimum insurance requirements. For drivers transferring from a fault-based state to one like Pennsylvania, this is especially true. In no-fault states, PIP insurance and other policies may be required, raising your prices. Get an estimate from your insurance agent and ask if they cover you in your new state.
Compare prices to save money
We recommend receiving quotations from two to three additional insurers in addition to your present one. Just because one insurer was cheap in one state doesn’t mean they’ll be reasonable in another. For example, if you had a GEICO policy in New Mexico and moved to Texas, you could stay with the company and keep the low rates. Local insurance firms, like Texas Farm Bureau, may offer even better rates.
Get quotes from the cheapest insurers in your state and compare coverage.
Buy a new policy
Once you’ve chosen an insurer, contact an agent and supply all required information. Make your first payment as soon as possible and start your policy the next day. Next, phone your former insurance and ask them to end your coverage today. This ensures that your coverage never expires and that there is no insurance overlap.
Step 3: Register your vehicle
After getting insurance in your new state, you can register your car and get a new plate. Most states require your driver’s license, proof of insurance, and vehicle title to complete registration. They may also want you to present evidence of your identity and residency in the area. Passports, military cards, refugee travel credentials, and Welfare or Medicaid cards can all be used to verify this information. For a complete list of official documents, visit your state’s DMV website.
When you obtain coverage, your insurer may have provided you with temporary proof of insurance, either electronically or in print. If not, you’ll need to wait for your insurance card to arrive in the mail.
Once you have all the paperwork, go to your local DMV and complete the vehicle registration and title applications. Application fees range from $25 to $60.
Once you’ve registered and received your new plate, ship your old one to your former state’s DMV.
Step 4: Renew your license
Finally, you’ll need a new license. It’s best to complete this at the same time and place as your car registration. The application and picture may require you to relocate. Ask the registration attendant where you can get a new license. To get a new state license, you’ll need to fill out an application and pay an application fee.
After this, you’ll be appropriately registered in your new state. For more click here or get your coverage now.
