I’ve never had to handle car insurance on my own, but now that I’m moving away from home I know I need to get on my own policy. I’m just unsure what will be asked of me, or how to answer! How should I answer questions from my new provider?

Chloe Jenkins · Updated on Jun 19, 2023

Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.

Handling your insurance for the first time can be a daunting experience, but answering car insurance questions can be pretty simple! Most insurance providers will just ask the following questions:

What’s your ZIP code? This is one of the ways that insurers will determine your

insurance quote

, as your location affects your premium. The answer is simply the code at the end of your address.

What car will you be insuring? Provide the make, year, model, and vehicle identification number (VIN). Companies can access a vehicle’s claim history and determine relative repair costs.

What is your car’s primary use? Explain how you use your vehicle, whether it’s for commuting, pleasure, or business. This lets the company know what risk you may pose for your insurer.

How many miles do you drive per year? This can be a tricky question, but if you calculate your weekly mileage and multiply it by 52, you’ll have your answer. If you drive frequently, insurers will know that you may constitute more of a risk than someone who drives only a couple of times a week.

Does your car have an anti-theft device? If your car does have an anti-theft device, let the company know what kind it is, and whether it’s active or passive—your car’s manual can tell you, if you’re not sure. If you do have one, you could see a discount on your

comprehensive coverage

, so be sure to mention one if you have it!

Do you own the car? This question doesn’t affect your rates but it can change the coverage and limits you’ll be offered. If you lease or finance, provide your lender’s information.

What is your license status? Let them know if you have a permit, valid license, suspended license, revoked license, expired license, or foreign license. Depending on the status of your license, it will be harder or impossible to obtain a policy. If you have a valid license, you have nothing to worry about.

Are you married? Married couples may qualify for discounts that individuals do not, so it’s good to let them know.

What is your occupation? If they allow you to write exactly what your job title is then do so; if not, pick the job title that closest fits your occupation. Studies have shown that individuals who work certain jobs correlate with fewer claims, which will result in a discount.

Are there any violations on your record? Your

driving record

is a great indicator of your risk as a driver, as drivers with more violations often have higher rates.

Are you currently insured? If you are currently insured, say yes. If you’re looking for your first policy or want to get a new one after a gap in coverage, say no. Companies ask this because a gap in your insurance will cause your rates to rise.

What coverages do you want on your policy? If you want the same coverages, limits, and deductibles as your present policy, have it handy to choose the same items. You can’t get a quote for car insurance unless the insurer knows what coverages, limits, and

deductibles

you want to purchase.

It’s important to be honest when you answer these questions. Inaccurate information may help you see a better quote initially, but once they verify your information, you will likely have just wasted your time.

MORE: 10 ways to get cheap car insurance that’s actually good

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