Do snowbirds need different car insurance?

Snowbirds don't usually need a different car insurance policy, but if they keep a car in a different state for several months they may need to update their coverage. In some states, you're required to register and insure your vehicle locally after a certain number of days or months, so it's important to know the rules for the state where you spend the winter.

What is snowbird car insurance?

Snowbird insurance is not a type of policy. It's a term that describes the car insurance needs of people who live in a northern state but spend the winter months at a second home in warmer areas such as Florida or Arizona.

That home could be a vacation rental, a home the person owns or even a timeshare. There's no difference in terms of the insurance policy itself, but rather how coverage works when you spend a long period away from the state where your car is registered. It is important to inform your insurance provider about your snowbird status and ensure adequate coverage. Snowbird car insurance may differ from vacation car insurance for a shorter trip.

Does your insurance work in another state?

Yes, your insurance works in every state, and your insurance company will automatically adjust your coverage as needed to meet state laws. You can travel through or visit any state and you'll be covered.

However, there are differences for seasonal residents from another state. Insurance company rules and state laws determine at what point you need to obtain insurance in that state. As a general rule, you should register and insure your car at your primary residence (think where you spend more than half the year). However, Florida has a much shorter timeframe for requiring part-time residents to register and insure vehicles there.

People ask

I have two homes; where do I register my car?

The answer depends on how long you spend in each home and the laws in the states where your homes are located. In most cases, you can register your car in the state where you spend most of your time; that would be considered your primary residence. Florida's insurance requirements kick in when you live there for 90 days.

How does snowbird car insurance work in Florida?

Snowbirds who live in Florida for more than 90 days must register their car and get a Florida car insurance policy.

If you plan to stay for less than 90 days, you can keep your insurance with your home state. Your insurance company will automatically adjust your coverage to meet Florida car insurance requirements. However, it's a good idea to discuss your winter travel plans with your insurance company to be sure.

Can a snowbird register a car in Florida?

Yes, and you will have to register it if you have a car in the state for more than 90 days each year. Those days don't have to be consecutive, either.

TIPYou can register a car in Florida even if you have an out-of-state license, but you will need to provide the garaging address and proof of a Florida car insurance policy.

Canadian snowbirds heading to Florida may face more complications. Canadian insurance is valid in the U.S., but you will come up against Florida's law about registration if you are there for more than 90 days. If you need to get a Florida insurance policy, you should speak with a local insurance agent who is familiar with the process for Canadians.

What do you need to register a car in Florida?

To register a vehicle in Florida that’s titled out of state, you’ll need:

  1. The out-of-state title
  2. A completed HSMV 82040 application for a certificate of title
  3. A copy of your driver’s license or passport
  4. Proof of Florida car insurance
  5. The bill of sale

How much insurance does a snowbird need in Florida?

Under Florida law, to drive legally, you'll need to have at least $10,000 in personal injury protectionPersonal injury protection (PIP) pays for your medical, hospital and funeral expenses resulting from a car accident, regardless of who's at fault. (PIP) and $10,000 in property damage liability coverage.

Every state sets minimum insurance standards. Florida has some of the least stringent requirements. It's a good idea to increase your limits to properly protect yourself.

EXPERT TIPIf you’re driving south for the winter, you might want to look at all your insurance options. “There are special coverages such as trip interruption, roadside and theft of personal property,” says Jimmi Lewis of the Voi Insurance Solutions insurance agency. “Trip interruption coverage can pay for expenses such as hotel and food if your vehicle breaks down. … Roadside assistance is a no-brainer. And since regular auto policies do not provide any coverage for your personal belongings in your car, personal property coverage can help.”

How does snowbird car insurance work in Arizona?

If you live in Arizona for less than seven months a year, you're classified as a part-time resident, and you don't have to register your vehicle in Arizona or get an Arizona insurance policy.

Discuss your winter plans with your insurance company to ensure the length of your stay falls in line with its requirements for extending coverage to another state.

Can a snowbird register a car in Arizona?

Yes, but you will have to meet Arizona residency requirements to register the car. You are considered a resident if you live in Arizona for seven months or more during the year.

Most snowbirds don't stay that long, so registering your car isn't necessary. However, if you buy a car in Arizona and keep it there, you should register it there.

How much insurance does a snowbird need in Arizona?

To meet Arizona car insurance law, you'll need to have at least $25,000 in bodily injury liability coverageThis auto insurance coverage helps pay for medical expenses and lost wages if you injure someone in a car accident. It also covers legal fees if you're sued. for one person and $50,000 for two or more people. You'll also need to have at least $15,000 in property damage liability coverageAuto insurance coverage for losses that result when you damage or destroy someone else's personal property. This coverage is required in most states..

People ask

Can I register a car in AZ with an out-of-state license?

Yes, you can register a car in Arizona with an out-of-state license. However, you must comply with Arizona's motor vehicle registration requirements and may need to provide additional documentation, such as proof of insurance. It's recommended to contact the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) or visit their website for specific instructions and requirements.

How does snowbird car insurance work in Texas?

Texas law doesn't specify an amount of time after which seasonal residents have to register and insure their car in the state. Rather, if you spend most of your time in Texas, have a Texas driver's license and file your taxes there, you're considered a resident and must register and insure your car there.

Your car insurance policy will automatically adjust to meet the state minimums wherever you are, but your insurance company may have limits on how long you can be in another state and extend coverage, so discuss it with your agent or representative.

How much insurance does a snowbird need in Texas?

You need enough insurance to meet Texas state minimums, which are 30/60/25, or $30,000 for bodily injury per person and $60,000 per incident, and $25,000 in property damage liability.

Consider increasing your limits to provide additional protection.

What insurance companies expect from snowbirds

Insurance companies expect you to keep them informed of any changes to your location or coverage needs. Here's what you need to do:

  • Inform your insurance company of your seasonal location and how long you'll be there
  • Provide the insurer with your garaging address
  • Adjust coverage limits to match the law in your summer home state, if necessary
  • Confirm that your insurer is licensed in both states, or that they can extend coverage to that state

Common insurance mistakes to avoid as a snowbird

Failure to follow state laws regarding car insurance can have consequences. Avoid these potentially costly mistakes:

  • Assuming coverage for a short vacation is the same as for a temporary resident: Remember that it varies by state
  • Assuming state minimums are enough coverage: It's always wide to carry higher limits
  • Missing registration deadlines: If you're caught without proper registration and auto insurance in Florida, you can be ticketed by law enforcement officers
  • Not providing an updated garaging address: Your auto insurance rates are determined based on where your car is housed. If you don't provide accurate information to your insurance company, it could deny a claim or non-renew your coverage when the truth comes to light.

Snowbird car insurance checklist

Follow this checklist to ensure you're ready to go south for the winter:

  1. Confirm how long you can be in your destination state before you have to register and insure your car there
  2. Notify your insurance company that you plan to be away and where you will be
  3. Review your liability and other coverage limits
  4. Ask if your insurer operates in both states and what happens if there is an accident
  5. Ensure that you understand the insurance laws in your temporary summer home

FAQ: Snowbird car insurance

How long can I drive in Florida with an out-of-state license?

You can drive in Florida for as long as you want with an out-of-state license, as long as you are not planning to become a resident. But if you are planning to stay in Florida for a long period, you’ll need to get a driver's license within 30 days of establishing residency.

What happens if I don't tell my insurance company I'm a snowbird?

It depends on the insurance company's rules and how long you are away. Your insurance company may deny a claimAn insurance claim is a request you make to your insurance company for coverage after your car is damaged or you have an accident. You can file a claim online, by phone, or in writing. based on your failure to update the garaging address or meet the requirements of the state where you spend the winter.

Are there snowbird-specific car insurance discounts?

There are no specific car insurance discounts for snowbirds. However, you should speak with your insurance company if you travel south for the winter and don't bring your car along, as you may be able to put it in storage.

The senior driver discounts in other states may be a little different as well. Make sure you ask.

Does car insurance for snowbirds cost more?

No, not generally. However, if you are staying long enough to need insurance in that state and the rates there are higher, you'll pay more. For example, car insurance in Florida is generally more expensive than in northern states.

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