companies offer same-day coverage, but the time it takes to get car insurance can vary. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from about an hour to a few days to finalize an auto insurance policy.

You can usually get same-day proof of insurance

If you’re buying a car and need a same-day car insurance policy, most companies can make that happen. Here’s what you need to do:

1. Request quotes based on your driving profile: Start by gathering quotes from different insurers to find the best rate. If you’re using

Jerry

, you’ll only have to share your personal details, vehicle information, and driving history once to get quotes from several of the best car insurance companies.

2. Select a policy and adjust coverage: After comparing quotes, select the type of car insurance that best fits your needs and budget.

You can adjust your coverage options and deductibles, too—for example, to secure higher liability coverage limits or add

full glass coverage

3. Finalize your policy and pay your premium: You’ll need to confirm your insurance premium and pay for the first month. If you’re going to do monthly installments, you’ll need to provide payment details. With Jerry, you can typically find coverage and finalize a policy in about an hour.

4. Access your

proof of insurance

: Many insurers now offer digital ID cards that are available to you immediately. In the Jerry app, you’ll find your policy card under Account > Policies & Billing and can access it at any time.

In some cases, same-day insurance isn’t possible

You may encounter some instances where finalizing your new policy will take a little longer. It’s not the norm, but the following situations can mean you have to wait longer than a day for your coverage to begin:

The insurer needs to verify your documents, like proof of address

You’re buying during non-business hours or peak times, like an evening, weekend, or holiday

Your initial payment is taking longer to process

The insurer declined coverage based on certain criteria

You provided inaccurate or incomplete information during the quote process

Some insurance providers offer an early-bird
insurance discount
for finalizing your policy at least a week before your existing policy ends. If you know you need car insurance, consider planning ahead to save a bit of money.

Learn more:

What do you need to get car insurance?

3 tips for getting insurance fast

You’re more likely to get a same-day insurance policy if you’re prepared with accurate information and complete the

insurance shopping process

online.

Have your information ready

Here’s what you should have on hand:

Personal information: Name, address, date of birth, driver’s license number, social security number

Vehicle information: Make, model, vehicle identification number (VIN), odometer reading, average weekly mileage, previous insurance policies, lienholder information (if applicable)

Past claims and violations: If you’ve filed claims or received tickets in the past, you’ll need to provide the details

Coverage preferences: All policies automatically include

state minimum coverage

, but you can upgrade to a

full-coverage policy

and choose add-ons like

gap insurance

new vehicle replacement

coverage, and

roadside assistance

Be accurate and honest

If you omit details or provide inaccurate information during the quoting process, it’s safe to assume that it will take the insurance company longer to finalize your policy. Insurance agencies run motor vehicle reports, so failing to disclose a past violation won’t save you any money but will cost you time.

Shop for quotes online

Getting an online insurance quote is typically faster than calling around or speaking to insurance agents in person—and if you’re shopping with Jerry, you’ll be able to

compare auto insurance quotes

from multiple insurance companies in just a couple of minutes. Once you find a policy that meets your budget and insurance requirements, you can purchase it right in the app.

FAQs

How fast can I get an insurance policy?

You can often get an insurance policy on the same day you apply—especially if you’re shopping online or using an app like Jerry. Many customers have finalized their policy in less than an hour, though it can take longer depending on the situation.

What insurance company is usually the cheapest?

The cheapest insurance company varies based on individual factors like driving history, location, vehicle type, and coverage needs. To find the best car insurance rate, compare online quotes from multiple insurance companies.

How long does it take for car insurance to kick in?

Car insurance can kick in immediately upon purchase if you request that your coverage begin the same day. Most insurance companies also allow you to schedule your policy start date within the next 30 days.

How long does it take to get a car insurance quote?

Getting a car insurance quote can take as little as a few minutes, especially when using online comparison tools or insurance broker apps. You can speed up the process by having your personal, vehicle, and past insurance claims or violations information on hand during the application process.

How long does it take to get an insurance check for a totaled car?

The time to receive an insurance check for a totaled car can vary, typically ranging from a few days to several weeks. Your settlement time will vary depending on your insurance company’s process, the complexity of the claim, and how quickly the necessary documentation is submitted.

How long does it take to get an estimate on car damage from insurance?

Getting an estimate on car damage from insurance can take a few days to a couple of weeks. It depends on the insurer's schedule, the availability of an adjuster, and the complexity of the damage.

How long does it take to get a car insurance card?

You can often get a digital insurance card immediately after purchasing a policy. Physical cards can take a few days to a couple of weeks to arrive by mail.

How long does it take to get a rental car from insurance?

If your policy includes rental coverage, you can typically get a rental car within a day or two of filing your claim. Make sure you provide all the necessary information and properly submit your documentation.

How long does it take for your insurance rate to get back to normal after a car accident?

An accident can impact your car insurance rates for about three to five years, though it depends on factors like the severity of the accident, whether you were at fault, and whether you maintain a good driving record or incur other violations.

How can I speed up my insurance process?

You can speed up the car insurance process by having the required information (personal, vehicle, payment) readily available, providing accurate information during the shopping process, and shopping online or through an app instead of calling agents.