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Mandy Sleight has over 15 years of insurance knowledge and expertise in auto, home, life, health, pet, supplemental benefits, and other insurance products. She’s a sought-after insurance expert, appearing in Bankrate.com, Moneygeek.com, U.S. News & World Report, Reviews.com, CNET, and other publications, and she's been writing for Compare.com since 2023.
Mandy uses her background and experience working for well-known insurance companies like State Farm and Nationwide Insurance to create engaging and easy-to-understand content that helps readers make smarter insurance choices that have a positive effect on their budgets and finances.
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Lequita Westbrooks is an insurance editor at Compare.com. Her writing and editing experiences span several industries, including insurance, personal finance, higher education, and more. She excels at explaining complex topics like auto insurance in simple, easy-to-understand language and is passionate about helping readers save money. Lequita graduated from the University of South Florida, where she earned her Bachelor’s degree in English.
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While we make money through partnerships with some of the brands we discuss in our articles, our editorial team operates 100% independently, and these partners never influence or affect the topics, reviews, ratings, or recommendations we provide. We never guarantee favorable reviews or mentions in exchange for compensation from any brands or partners, and we uphold strict editorial standards to ensure our content is always independent, truthful, and unbiased.
If you regularly drive someone else’s vehicle but don’t own one yourself, you might need non-owner car insurance. Non-owner insurance provides liability coverage if you cause an accident while driving a borrowed, rented, or shared car. It provides secondary coverage if any damages you cause exceed the vehicle owner’s existing policy limits.
Non-owner car insurance is more affordable than a standard policy and costs an average of $600 per year. Whether you need a non-owner policy depends on the vehicle owner’s policy, their coverage levels, and how frequently you drive their car.
Here’s what you need to know about non-owner car insurance, what it covers, when it makes sense to buy, and where to get it.
Non-owner car insurance makes sense if you frequently borrow, rent, or car-share someone else’s vehicle and want financial protection if you get into an accident.
USAA is the cheapest company for non-owner coverage, with an average rate of $348 per year.
State Farm, GEICO, Allstate, and American Family also offer affordable non-owner insurance.
A non-owner car insurance policy is for when you drive a vehicle that isn’t registered to you. If you drive someone else’s car — whether you borrow, rent, or use a car-sharing service — you could be putting yourself at financial risk if you get into an accident.
Non-owner auto insurance provides liability insurance for the other driver’s injuries or property damage you cause in an accident. Without adequate coverage either from the vehicle owner’s personal insurance policy or your own non-owner insurance, you may have to pay out of pocket for the other driver’s medical bills, lost wages, and property damage if you’re at fault for the accident.
Since it isn’t tied to a specific make and model, non-owner auto insurance is usually much cheaper than a standard auto insurance policy. On average, it costs $600 per year, which is about one-third the cost of a standard policy. The cheapest non-owner car insurance policy provides liability-only coverage. Additional coverages come with an extra cost.
The average cost of non-owner car insurance depends on a few factors, including your age, ZIP code, driving history, and insurance company. If you’re a high-risk driver or need an SR-22 insurance form, for example, you’ll pay higher rates than a driver with a clean driving record.
Rates for non-owner insurance can vary by company, state, and your unique driver profile. While USAA offers the cheapest average premiums, it’s available only to current military members, veterans, and their families.
The table below shows the average annual premiums for five top companies offering non-owner car insurance, according to Compare.com data.
Company  | Average Annual Premium |
|---|---|
| USAA | $348 |
| State Farm | $408 |
| GEICO | $420 |
| Allstate | $480 |
| American Family | $588 |
Getting non-owner car insurance might be a good idea if you’re in any of the following situations:
Suppose you regularly borrow a family member, neighbor, co-worker, or friend’s car. In that case, a non-owner auto insurance policy can protect both your and their financial interests if you get into an accident.
When you drive another person’s car, you don’t get to control the type of insurance or coverage levels they buy. A non-owner car insurance policy can provide secondary coverage over and above theirs if the auto accident damages exceed their bodily injury and property damage liability coverage limits.
Rental car companies require proof of insurance before renting a car, whether you provide your own policy or purchase temporary coverage.[1] You’ll also need the same for a car-sharing service like Zipcar or Turo. Buying a non-owner car insurance policy may be cheaper and easier if you regularly rent or car-share.
Previous insurance history is one of the many factors insurance companies use to determine the cost of auto premiums. And if you have previous lapses in coverage, you may pay more.
Even if you don’t regularly borrow or rent another car, purchasing a non-owner policy can be an affordable way to prevent higher rates when you need to insure your own vehicle in the future.
Non-owner insurance policies aren’t necessary for all drivers and situations. Non-owner auto insurance may not make sense if:
You own a car and have a standard car insurance policy in place.
You don’t have a driver’s license and won’t be driving any vehicle.
Someone in your household owns a vehicle and has a traditional auto insurance policy, and they can list you as an insured driver.
You might need to buy non-owner insurance if you don’t have a car but drive other vehicles. Here are three of the best options for non-owner insurance policies:
| User Reviews | 3.9 |
|---|---|
| Our Rating Compare.com's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The objective formula used in these reviews weighs several important factors to consider when choosing financial products and services, including customer satisfaction ratings, ease of use, and a number of other components. | 4.7 /5 |
| Liability Only Liability-only insurance, sometimes called minimum-coverage insurance, pays for bodily injury and property damage to others in an accident the policyholder causes. It does not pay for the insured’s own damages. | $56/mo |
| Full Coverage Full-coverage car insurance generally includes liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage, and may include other optional coverages such as uninsured motorist coverage. Collision covers a policyholder’s repair or replacement costs in case of an accident. Comprehensive covers damages caused by non-accident events. The average quote displayed here reflects policies with the following coverage limits: $50,000 bodily injury liability per person; $100,000 bodily injury liability per accident; $50,00 property damage liability per accident; $1,000 collision deductible; and a $1,000 comprehensive deductible. | $108/mo |
Customers appreciate the helpful agents and prompt claim handling, but many are unhappy with the constant rate increases, even for safe drivers. Some also reported poor customer service.
Customers appreciate the helpful agents and prompt claim handling, but many are unhappy with the constant rate increases, even for safe drivers. Some also reported poor customer service.
State Farm offers some of the lowest rates for non-owner insurance, along with strong customer satisfaction and a large agent network. The insurer is ideal for budget-conscious drivers who want personal support. You’ll find discounts for safe driving and loyalty, as well as coverages like car rental, travel expenses, and rideshare.
Affordable rates
Strong financial stability
Wide agent network
Fewer discounts
Coverage varies by state
Limited digital tools
| User Reviews | 4.3 |
|---|---|
| Our Rating Compare.com's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The objective formula used in these reviews weighs several important factors to consider when choosing financial products and services, including customer satisfaction ratings, ease of use, and a number of other components. | 4.5 /5 |
| Liability Only Liability-only insurance, sometimes called minimum-coverage insurance, pays for bodily injury and property damage to others in an accident the policyholder causes. It does not pay for the insured’s own damages. | $53/mo |
| Full Coverage Full-coverage car insurance generally includes liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage, and may include other optional coverages such as uninsured motorist coverage. Collision covers a policyholder’s repair or replacement costs in case of an accident. Comprehensive covers damages caused by non-accident events. The average quote displayed here reflects policies with the following coverage limits: $50,000 bodily injury liability per person; $100,000 bodily injury liability per accident; $50,00 property damage liability per accident; $1,000 collision deductible; and a $1,000 comprehensive deductible. | $98/mo |
Customers appreciate the prompt customer service and claims handling but are frustrated by the significant and frequent price increases.
Customers appreciate the prompt customer service and claims handling but are frustrated by the significant and frequent price increases.
USAA provides outstanding value for military members and their families. It stands out for its A++ financial strength rating and high customer satisfaction. USAA offers strong digital tools and great discounts, including good student, defensive driving, and one for storing your vehicle.
Superior financial strength rating
High claims and customer satisfaction
Low rates for eligible drivers
Only military members and family eligible
Limited local agent support
Above-average number of complaints
| User Reviews | 3.6 |
|---|---|
| Our Rating Compare.com's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The objective formula used in these reviews weighs several important factors to consider when choosing financial products and services, including customer satisfaction ratings, ease of use, and a number of other components. | 3.9 /5 |
| Liability Only Liability-only insurance, sometimes called minimum-coverage insurance, pays for bodily injury and property damage to others in an accident the policyholder causes. It does not pay for the insured’s own damages. | $158/mo |
| Full Coverage Full-coverage car insurance generally includes liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage, and may include other optional coverages such as uninsured motorist coverage. Collision covers a policyholder’s repair or replacement costs in case of an accident. Comprehensive covers damages caused by non-accident events. The average quote displayed here reflects policies with the following coverage limits: $50,000 bodily injury liability per person; $100,000 bodily injury liability per accident; $50,00 property damage liability per accident; $1,000 collision deductible; and a $1,000 comprehensive deductible. | $215/mo |
Customers appreciate the excellent customer service and efficient claim processing but are frustrated with the high and consistently increasing premiums. Some also found the website difficult to navigate.
Customers appreciate the excellent customer service and efficient claim processing but are frustrated with the high and consistently increasing premiums. Some also found the website difficult to navigate.
Drivers who want flexibility and tech-friendly features may find a good fit with Liberty Mutual. It provides strong digital tools and unique perks, and it offers highly customizable coverages. You’ll also find a wide range of discounts, including for being a safe driver and having a new vehicle.
Customizable policies
Strong mobile app
Available nationwide
Premiums higher than some competitors
Mixed customer satisfaction
Smaller local agent network
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Non-owner car insurance covers injuries and property damage for the other driver and their passengers in a collision. For example, if you cause a car accident in a vehicle you don’t own, a typical non-owner car insurance policy can pay for their:
Medical expenses
Lost wages
Legal fees
Vehicle repair or replacement costs
Besides basic liability coverage, non-owner insurance may also include:
Medical payments coverage (MedPay) pays for your and your passengers’ injuries, regardless of who’s at fault.
Personal injury protection (PIP) covers you and your passengers’ medical expenses, lost wages, funeral costs, or home aides.
Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage (UM/UIM) if the other driver causes the accident but doesn’t have insurance or doesn’t have enough liability coverage. The vehicle owner’s UM coverage would need to be exhausted before a non-owner UM policy kicks in.
The additional coverages above can vary by insurance company and state requirements.
Non-owner auto insurance covers you as the driver but not the car you’re driving. The non-owner liability policy doesn’t provide comprehensive or collision coverage for the borrowed vehicle.
Non-owner car insurance doesn’t cover:
Damage from things like natural disasters, animals, or falling trees
Collision damage from things like hitting another car or an object
Your own injuries, unless your state requires MedPay or PIP coverage
Your non-owner coverage kicks in only after the damages exceed the vehicle owner’s existing policy limits.
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If you don’t own a car but rent or borrow someone else’s car, a non-owner policy is a smart choice. Purchasing a policy is similar to buying a regular policy. Here’s how to get non-owner insurance:
Check eligibility. Make sure you qualify as someone who doesn’t own a vehicle and that your state allows non-owner policies.
Gather your info. Be ready to provide information such as your license, address, driving history, and SR-22 filing if applicable.
Compare quotes. Not every insurer offers non-owner insurance, so shop around and compare quotes to make sure you’re getting the best deal.
Purchase the policy. Choose your liability limits and pay your premium online or with an agent. Make sure your insurer files any state-required forms on your behalf.
Non-owner insurance is a good option if you have a valid driver’s license but don’t own a car. We answered some of the most common questions about non-owner coverage to help you choose the right type of policy.
You won’t find one non-owner policy that’s best for every driver. The best insurance for you depends on your unique needs and eligibility. That said, our research shows that USAA, State Farm, and Liberty Mutual are some of the best insurers for non-owner coverage if you’re looking for the lowest rates, military benefits, and the best claims experience.
Non-owner car insurance is liability-only coverage for drivers who don’t own a car but still drive, whether through borrowing, renting, or a car-sharing service. It’s a type of secondary coverage that kicks in if you get into an accident while driving a vehicle that isn’t yours — but after the owner’s policy maxes out.
Keep in mind it doesn’t cover damage to the vehicle you’re driving or for your injuries.
No. A non-owner policy is typically less expensive than regular car insurance because it’s liability-only coverage. But like standard car insurance, high-risk drivers tend to pay higher rates, and extra coverage adds to the overall cost.
It’s possible, but only through a non-owner policy that's added on top of an existing policy in the titled driver's name. You have to prove “insurable interest” to insure take out your own policy, which usually means your name is on the title.
In some states, like New York, the vehicle’s registration and insurance policy name must match exactly. Most states require the registered owner to have insurance, regardless of who drives the vehicle. But if you drive the car, you can buy a non-owner policy to protect yourself financially in an accident if the liability limits on the vehicle's primary policy is exhausted after a claim.
Not necessarily. If you don’t own a car, you don’t need insurance — but having a policy has benefits.
A coverage gap can cause higher rates when you insure a vehicle. A non-owner insurance policy can provide continuous coverage if you borrow or rent someone else’s car to keep future rates lower.
GEICO charges between $30 and $40 per month, on average, for non-owner car insurance, according to our data. It’s best to call a GEICO agent for a quote to determine your actual monthly premium.
Yes. State Farm offers non-owner car insurance, which the company refers to as personal mobility coverage. This provides liability coverage if you don’t own a vehicle but drive for a rideshare company, use car share, or rent cars.
Yes. Progressive offers non-owner car insurance which provides liability-only insurance if you don’t own a car and frequently borrow cars, use a car-sharing service, or rent cars.
Our data shows that non-owner car insurance averages $600 per year, or around $50 per month.
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Mandy Sleight has over 15 years of insurance knowledge and expertise in auto, home, life, health, pet, supplemental benefits, and other insurance products. She’s a sought-after insurance expert, appearing in Bankrate.com, Moneygeek.com, U.S. News & World Report, Reviews.com, CNET, and other publications, and she's been writing for Compare.com since 2023.
Mandy uses her background and experience working for well-known insurance companies like State Farm and Nationwide Insurance to create engaging and easy-to-understand content that helps readers make smarter insurance choices that have a positive effect on their budgets and finances.
Lequita Westbrooks is an insurance editor at Compare.com. Her writing and editing experiences span several industries, including insurance, personal finance, higher education, and more. She excels at explaining complex topics like auto insurance in simple, easy-to-understand language and is passionate about helping readers save money. Lequita graduated from the University of South Florida, where she earned her Bachelor’s degree in English.
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