Snowbirds fleeing winter weather for warmer climes need to understand auto insurance requirements before landing at their second homes.
That means answering two key questions:
- Do you need to register your car at your winter home?
- Do you need to buy insurance in that state?
We looked at two popular winter destinations for snowbirds, Arizona and Florida, to see how their requirements differ for their temporary residents.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
- Every state sets its own minimum insurance standards, with some of the least stringent requirements being in Arizona and Florida.
- If your car is in Florida for more than 90 days each year, then you need to register it there to comply with Florida laws. Arizona is more relaxed; you don’t have to register your car there unless you live there more than seven months of the year.
- If you register your vehicle in another state, you will need to obtain insurance in that state as well. (Call us! We'll take care of you!)
- To ensure the safety of your car, (and as long as your car has an active registration,) you have to meet at least minimum legal standards for insurance.
What is snowbird insurance?
The term snowbird is used for individuals – typically retired – who travel south from the northern part of the country for the winter. Snowbird insurance is car insurance for vehicle owners who spend part of the year at a second home, often in warmer areas such as Florida or Arizona.
How does car insurance work if I drive a car in another state?
If you’re visiting another state for a few days or just driving through, your existing vehicle coverage should be all you need. However, if you plan on settling in a different state for a few months, you may need to have snowbird car insurance in that state.
