How to shop for car insurance online

We may receive commissions from some links to products on this page. Promotions are subject to availability and retailer terms. By Angelica Leicht Senior Editor, Managing Your Money Angelica Leicht is the senior editor for the Managing Your Money section for CBSNews.com, where she writes and edits articles on a range of personal finance topics. Angelica previously held editing roles at The Simple Dollar, Interest, HousingWire and other financial publications. Read Full Bio November 6, 2026 / 2:27 PM EST / CBS News Add CBS News on Google Shopping for car insurance online makes it easy to compare policies, but it isn't always easy to navigate. Getty Images/iStockphoto Shopping for car insurance used to mean calling multiple insurance agents, answering the same questions repeatedly and waiting for quotes to arrive. Today, drivers can compare policies from several insurers without picking up the phone. But while the car insurance comparison process has become more convenient, finding the right coverage at the right price isn't necessarily as simple as plugging in your information and then choosing the cheapest online quote.After all, car insurance rates can vary significantly from one company to another, even when drivers provide identical information. That's because insurers use different formulas to assess risk, and factors like your driving record, location, vehicle and coverage selections can all affect what you're quoted. That means a car insurance policy that looks like a bargain at first glance may not offer the same protection as a slightly more expensive option.And with the new year rapidly approaching, this could be a good opportunity to review what you're paying and whether another car insurer could offer a better deal. Shopping online makes that comparison easier, but knowing how to navigate the process can make a meaningful difference in what you ultimately pay.Find out how Luva can help you save on car insurance today.How to shop for car insurance onlineBuying car insurance online is relatively straightforward, but taking a few steps before requesting quotes can help you avoid overpaying or purchasing coverage that doesn't meet your needs. Here's how to approach the process:Gather your information before requesting quotesMost online insurance applications ask for similar information, so having everything ready can make the process faster. You'll typically need your driver's license number, vehicle identification number (VIN), address, estimated annual mileage and information about other drivers in your household.You should also have details about your current car insurance policy, including your coverage limits and deductibles. This information gives you a starting point for comparing new policies and helps ensure you're evaluating similar coverage. Be as accurate as possible when providing information, too. Underestimating your mileage or omitting a household driver could lead to inaccurate quotes or complications when the insurer verifies your application.Shop around and compare your car insurance options online now.Determine how much coverage you needBefore comparing prices, decide what protection you want your policy to provide. Nearly every state in the nation requires drivers to carry some form of auto insurance, with the exception of New Hampshire, which still has financial responsibility requirements drivers must meet. But meeting your state's minimum requirements may not provide enough protection if you're involved in a serious accident.For example, higher liability limits can help protect your finances if you're responsible for injuries or property damage that exceeds minimum coverage amounts. Collision and comprehensive coverage may also be worth considering, particularly if your vehicle is newer or expensive to repair. Lenders also generally require these coverages on financed vehicles. You should evaluate your deductible, too. Choosing a higher deductible can lower your premium, but it means paying more out of pocket when filing certain claims.Compare quotes from multiple insurersOnce you've determined your coverage needs, request quotes from at least three to five car insurance companies. You can visit insurers' websites individually or use online comparison platforms that collect quotes from participating companies.Comparison websites can save time, but keep in mind that they don't necessarily include every insurer. Some also operate primarily as lead-generation services, meaning your information may be shared with insurance agents or companies that contact you afterward.For the most accurate comparison, use the same liability limits, deductibles and optional coverages for every quote. Otherwise, a cheaper policy might simply provide less protection. And don't assume the first quote represents your final price. Insurers may adjust premiums after verifying your driving history, insurance record or other application details.Look for discounts that could lower your premiumMany car insurers offer discounts that aren't automatically reflected in initial online estimates. Depending on the company, you may qualify for savings by bundling auto and homeowners insurance, insuring multiple vehicles, maintaining a clean driving record or enrolling in automatic payments. Some car insurers also offer discounts for completing defensive driving courses or participating in usage-based insurance programs that monitor driving habits.Before purchasing a policy, review available discounts and confirm which ones are included in your car insurance quote. And, keep in mind that usage-based programs may look like a good option, but they can involve sharing driving data and, depending on the insurer, could ultimately result in higher rates.Check the insurer's reputation before buyingPrice matters, but so does the car insurance company's ability to handle claims efficiently. Before selecting an insurer, review customer complaint information through the National Association of Insurance Commissioners and check financial strength ratings from organizations such as AM Best. You can also research customer experiences with claims processing, billing and policy changes. Opting for a slightly higher premium may be worthwhile if the insurer offers more reliable service or coverage that better meets your needs.Review your policy and avoid coverage gapsBefore finalizing your purchase, review the insurance policy's coverage limits, deductibles, exclusions and effective date. Make sure the final premium matches your expectations and determine whether monthly payments include additional fees.If you're switching car insurers, arrange for your new policy to begin before your existing coverage ends. And, when you cancel your old policy, be sure to do so only after confirming that the replacement coverage is active. Even a brief lapse could create financial and legal problems and potentially increase your future premiums.The bottom lineShopping for car insurance online can make it easier to find competitive rates without spending hours contacting individual companies. But the lowest advertised premium isn't necessarily the best deal. Comparing identical coverage, checking available discounts and researching insurers can help you find a policy that balances affordability with adequate protection. And even if you're satisfied with your current insurer, getting a few online quotes before your next renewal could reveal savings opportunities you wouldn't otherwise know about. Edited by Matt Richardson