Keep in mind: These coverages will protect other drivers and cars if you cause an accident. You’ll need to purchase additional coverage to make sure your vehicle is protected and your potential injuries are paid for.

In order to qualify as a classic car, your vehicle must be 25 years old or older. You must purchase classic car insurance from a company certified by the New York State Department of Financial Services and have a New York title and registration.

MORE:

What happens if you’re in a car accident without insurance and at fault?

What impacts the cost of classic car insurance in New York?

Although you can expect to pay significantly less to insure a classic car than your average car insurance costs, the type of coverage you need will have a strong influence on your finalized rates.

Other factors that can impact your classic car insurance rate include:

Model year

Stated or guaranteed value

Mileage

Customization—if you include things like flatbed towing, roadside assistance, spare parts coverage, etc.

Your driving record

Discounts—membership in classic car clubs or safety features can lead to discounts

What is classic car insurance?

Classic car insurance, also known as collector or antique car insurance, gives you access to many coverage options you’re familiar with, like comprehensive coverage and personal injury protection, as well as ones unique insurance, like spare parts coverage or flexible mileage coverage.

Insuring a classic car is different from finding coverage for your commute-to-work car. Classic cars aren’t driven as often—and they can’t be used as daily drivers to qualify for this type of coverage—and they can also be worth more than the newer vehicles in your garage, making specialty coverage a must.

Classic car insurance is especially ideal for: Owners of collectible cars who still intend to take their vehicle on an occasional cruise or put them on display in car shows or parades.

What is a classic or antique car?

The definition of a classic car can vary depending on the provider, but generally, a classic car is considered to be any vehicle between 10 and 24 years old that has a decided historic interest (think hot rods, muscle cars, or replicas).

However, for insurance purposes, an antique car is a vehicle 25 years old or older that has decided historical interest (so basically an older classic car). Typically, antique vehicles can also be insured with classic car coverage, as long as they meet the provider’s qualifying criteria.

What makes classic car insurance different?

Here are some of the main elements that set New York classic car insurance apart from a regular car insurance policy for an everyday vehicle:

It’s less expensive: Classic car insurance is usually less expensive than a normal auto insurance policy. However, you must meet a provider’s necessary criteria to qualify. To make sure you’re eligible for classic car insurance, contact your insurance agent.

It’s for vehicles that aren’t driven often: Limited regular use/mileage cap provisions dictate that the classic car only be used for infrequent pleasure driving, shows, clubs, parades, and the like.

You need secure storage: Your car must be securely stored, not sitting outdoors, and restored to or preserved in its original condition to get a classic car insurance quote.

The cost depends on the estimated worth of your vehicle: Unlike modern everyday cars, classic cars often lack a “book value,” or predetermined price for a specific make and model. If you take out a classic auto insurance policy, you’ll need to reach an agreement with your insurers to determine what dollar amount your vehicle is worth. You’ll get coverage up to the agreed value, regardless of depreciation.

Benefits of classic car insurance coverage

Unlike younger vehicles, classic cars gain value over time rather than losing it. In fact, some classic cars currently hold values that exceed their original selling prices, making them collectibles and qualifying them for even more specialized coverage.

Regardless of your vehicle's age or value, here are some of the benefits of getting classic car insurance in New York:

Low premiums: Classic car insurance rates are typically 40% to 70% lower than standard car insurance for most policyholders.

Higher coverage limits: Many car insurance companies offer coverage limits up to $500,000 for collectible vehicles.

Flexible annual mileage limits: Depending on which insurance agency you work with, you may be able to arrange for flexible mileage caps on your policy.

Guaranteed or agreed value coverage: In many cases, a classic car insurance policy is based on a value that you and your insurance provider agree on, rather than the car’s actual cash value.

Optional coverage for spare parts and memorabilia: When you insure a classic car, you’re often insuring more than the vehicle itself.

Roadside assistance

using only flatbed tow trucks: Flatbed towing means peace of mind for owners of rare collectible vehicles.

Potential discounts on approved collector car club memberships: Speciality insurance providers such as Hagerty, American Collectors, and State Farm may offer discounts if you’re a member of a collector car club.

Do I need classic car insurance?

If you have any of the following, you likely need specialty coverage:

Antique or vintage cars

Vintage boats

Modern collector vehicles

Modified vehicles

Classic trucks and utility vehicles

Motorsports vehicles

Vintage motorcycles and scooters

Retired commercial vehicles

Collector trailers

Vehicles under construction

Classic military vehicles

Antique tractors

Coverage options for classic car insurance

Like with regular cars, the additional coverages you purchase for your classic car insurance policy will vary depending on your driving needs and the state in which you live.

Here are some common coverages specifically for classic vehicles in New York:

Coverage	Description
Comprehensive	Covers damage that isn’t the result of a collision, such as from severe weather or vandalism.
Collision	Covers damages resulting from a collision with another vehicle or stationary object.
Uninsured/underinsured motorist	Covers damages if you’re involved in an accident with a driver who doesn’t have auto insurance.
Agreed value coverage	If you’re in a covered accident and your classic car is a total loss, you’ll receive the full agreed-upon value (minus your deductible) without any deduction for depreciation.
Flexible mileage	Tired mileage plans give you flexibility to customize your policy based on how much you actually drive your classic car.
Roadside assistance	Coverage for tire changes, towing, and other incidental expenses that aren’t part of a typical auto insurance policy.
Spare parts	Add coverage for loss or damages to classic spare parts—even ones that are expensive or hard to find.

Finding cheap car insurance in New York for your classic car

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FAQs

What are limitations to classic car insurance?

Classic car insurance often restricts your car’s usage to leisure and events, imposing mileage limits and geographical constraints. Sometimes, you could get into disagreements with your insurer over the car’s value. Finally, some classic insurance policies will specify limitations on vehicle modifications.

At what age is a car considered a classic eligible for insurance discounts in NY state?

In New York State, a car is generally considered a classic when it reaches 25 years of age. At this point, it may become eligible for classic car insurance discounts and benefits.

That being said, specific eligibility criteria and insurance offerings can vary among insurance providers, so it's good to check with individual companies for their exact requirements and policies regarding classic car insurance.

How much does classic insurance cost on average?

Classic car insurance is typically more affordable than standard auto insurance due to the reduced usage of classic cars. Generally, classic car insurance premiums can range anywhere from $400 to $1,000 annually, depending on your location. To get an accurate auto insurance quote, it’s best to contact an insurance provider.

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