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How do I insure a car when I buy it from a private seller?

I want to buy a car from a private seller, but I need insurance to drive it home. I'm a fairly new driver, and I'm not really sure how all this works. How do I get insurance for a car I haven't bought yet?

avatar
Eric Schad · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
To insure a car from a private seller, you'll need to provide your
car insurance
 company with the make, model, and vehicle identification number (VIN).
Insuring a car from a private seller is a similar process to buying a car from a dealership—the only real difference is that a private seller won't ask for
proof of insurance
 before you drive away.
Once you know which vehicle you're purchasing, call your insurer with the details. They will explain your coverage options and give you a quote.
If you already have an insurance policy: Most insurance companies offer a grace period of 7 to 30 days, during which time your existing insurance coverage will apply to your new vehicle. Make sure you add your new car to your policy before the grace period ends to avoid being caught
driving without insurance
.
MORE:
How to buy a car from a private seller
Car InsuranceInsurance ShoppingCar Buying
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