Shopping for Car Insurance - How to Get the Best Deals

A young Asian man using his cellphone to shop car insurance from his home office, depicting how easy it is to get car insurance with GEICO. Shop auto insurance anywhere anytime.

When comparing car insurance rates online or over the phone, make sure you're looking at similar policies to accurately compare rates. With a 97% customer satisfaction rate*, why not start with GEICO? Here's what you need to know about

1. Gather the information you need to shop for a car insurance quote.

The first step in shopping for car insurance is to get a quote. To get an accurate car insurance quote, you'll need to provide some basic information. In addition to your name, address, and date of birth, some questions you may be asked include:

  • Type of vehicle and how you use it
  • Any other drivers that will be on the policy
  • Education and profession
  • Auto insurance history
  • Accident history

Not sure about something? You can always save your quote at any step and come back later.

2. Determine how much coverage you need.

When shopping for the best car insurance, make sure you're comparing apples to apples. If you already have auto insurance, have your current policy details handy to understand your current limits and deductibles. You can also use our Coverage Calculator to help determine what's best for you.

Some things to consider when shopping for a policy:

  • Check the minimum coverage requirements for auto insurance in your state.
  • Consider carrying a higher deductible to lower your premium. A $500 deductible is a popular choice.
  • Collision coverage provides protection for your car.
  • Liability coverage helps protect your personal assets in the event you are responsible for injuries or damage.

3. Explore Car Insurance Discounts.

Safe driving definitely has its rewards. When shopping for car insurance, see if you qualify for additional discounts that are offered in your market. Get a quote and see if you qualify for any of these discounts:

4. Get a car insurance quote.

You may need additional information about yourself and your vehicle to get an accurate auto insurance quote. Gathering the following items before you start will help you be prepared:

  • Valid driver's license and number
  • Vehicle identification number (VIN)
  • Address the vehicle will be stored

You can get a car insurance quote online anytime. We also have local agents in many areas across the nation. Find a local agent near you.

5. Compare insurance quotes.

When shopping for car insurance, if you are getting quotes from different companies, you may want to compare them. For a useful comparison, make sure the quotes are for the same:

  • Coverages
  • Deductibles
  • Limits

Comparing car insurance can be a straightforward process once you understand what parts of the quote you need to compare. You also need to consider the service you will get after your purchase. GEICO has a 97% customer satisfaction rating* and provides easy access to licensed insurance agents.

How To Get Car Insurance with GEICO

Ready to save on car insurance? Get a quote from GEICO today and discover how much you could save! Learn how you can accurately compare rates from multiple insurers and find the coverage that fits your needs and budget. Do not wait—start your quote now and see why millions of drivers trust GEICO.

Car Insurance Shopping Resources

Below you can find some additional resources that can make shopping for car insurance even easier with GEICO:

Shopping for Car Insurance - FAQs

  • What is the average cost of car insurance?

    The average cost of car insurance varies widely and depends upon your insurance company. There are many other factors that influence your rates, such as age, driving history, location, and vehicle type. Shopping around and comparing quotes from different insurers can help you find the best rate.

  • How often should you shop for car insurance?

    We recommend shopping for car insurance once a year or when significant life changes occur, such as moving or buying a new car. Reviewing quotes from multiple insurers ensures you get the best coverage at the most competitive rate.

  • What is the cheapest car insurance?

    The price of car insurance varies depending on individual circumstances, including driving record, location, and coverage needs. While some insurers offer lower premiums, it's crucial to consider factors beyond price, such as coverage limits, deductibles, customer service quality, and financial stability. When shopping for insurance, make sure that your policy fits your needs.

Please note:

The above is meant as general information and as general policy descriptions to help you understand the different types of coverages. These descriptions do not refer to any specific contract of insurance and they do not modify any definitions, exclusions or any other provision expressly stated in any contracts of insurance. We encourage you to speak to your insurance representative and to read your policy contract to fully understand your coverages.

*Customer satisfaction based on an independent study conducted by Alan Newman Research, 2023.