24-Hour Car Insurance: Everything to You Need to Know

Sam Rakestraw
By Sam Rakestraw
Sam Rakestraw
By Sam Rakestraw
Senior Insurance Analyst • Updated December 2, 2025
Sam Rakestraw is a senior insurance analyst and content writer for Insurance Navy. His articles are all written with a deep familiarity and knowledge of all aspects of the insurance industry. Sam is also a freelance journalist for publications such as Off-Kilter Media, where he has a reputation for interviewing up-and-coming local musicians. Sam has a BA in Journalism from High Point University.
Senior Insurance Analyst • Updated
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The typical annual car insurance premiums in the United States are $10 daily. Because not all firms provide one-day auto insurance plans, finding 24-hour vehicle insurance might be difficult.

It isn’t because of their budget that drivers purchase 24-hour car insurance; it’s the circumstance of their vehicle ownership. Short-term car insurance is necessary for some drivers. If you’re one of those drivers, consider this post your guide to buying, finding, and understanding 24-hour car insurance.

What Exactly is 24-Hour Car Insurance?

By the name alone, you can infer that 24-hour car insurance is short-term auto coverage, often for a day or up to a month in some cases. It is paid for at a daily rate and designed specifically for any short-term driver’s situation.

However, not every insurance company may offer 24-hour or short-term car insurance. Because of this, finding such insurance involves some digging. 24-hour car insurance at affordable rates isn’t even close to impossible and can be done online. If you regularly drive your car for more than days or weeks at a time, then a standard auto policy may be in your best interests.

How Much Does 24-Hour Car Insurance Cost?

24-hour car insurance can be paid on a daily or weekly basis. Daily use rates average at around $10. The average standard car insurance is anywhere from $1,655 to $2,124 annually.

Of course, car insurance costs depend on the driver and their vehicle and vary from policyholder. The cost of 24-hour car insurance depends on how much the policyholder drives, so if they drive to the point of 24-hour premiums are more expensive than a standard policy, the 24-hour coverage has outlived its usefulness. You’re ready to become a full-time driver.

How to Purchase 24-Hour Car Insurance

To purchase 24-hour car insurance, begin by looking for exactly what coverage you need. Consider your vehicle type, intended use, and the length of time for which insurance is needed. It’s important to make sure that the coverage complies with the minimum legal requirements in your state.

Research options from insurers specializing in short-term car insurance. Traditional insurance providers may not offer such short term policies. Compare rates and terms from multiple insurers to find the best deal. You can usually compare quotes quickly online. Once you find a policy thats right for you, you can usually buy online too and get instant proof of insurance.

When getting a quote, you will need to give detailed information about yourself and the vehicle. This includes personal details such as your driver’s license number and specifics about the cars make, model, year, and VIN number.

Pay close attention to the coverage limits, deductibles, and exclusions to make sure the policy will protect everything you want. Check the procedure for claims in case an accident occurs.

After reviewing the policy details, you can usually pay online and get instant proof of insurance. Given the brief timeframe of 24-hour car insurance, you want to abide by the policy’s terms. Make sure to line up long term car insurance to avoid any lapses in coverage.

What Drivers Commonly Buy 24-Hour Car Insurance?

24-hour car insurance is hardly ever the move for a regular car owner, it just wouldn’t be worth it. Here are the most common cases when drivers get daily car insurance:

  • Car renters - Individuals renting a car and don’t have another way to pay the rental fee should get 24-hour auto insurance.
  • Car borrowers - Another reason for needing 24-hour auto insurance is if you’re using someone else’s car and their policy does not include you as a driver.
  • New car purchase - 24-hour car insurance is an excellent placeholder until you find a standard insurer with which you are comfortable. Car insurance is required in 49 out of 50 states, so cars are always meant to be insured.

Are There Any Restrictions on 24-hour Car Insurance?

24-hour car insurance is relatively easy to get if you research and gather as many quotes as possible. Every insurer prices its policies differently, which you can take advantage of.

Typically, 24-hour car insurance can only be bought for drivers over 21. Younger drivers can only get cheap car insurance once they have more of a driving record. Some companies may not even offer 24-hour car insurance to drivers under 25.

If you’re looking for cheap car insurance rates, contact Insurance Navy today at 888-949-6289. One of our expert representatives can get you a free insurance quote in minutes. Need to speak with someone? We offer quotes virtually via our website and mobile app. There’s no harm in shopping for car insurance, even if you already have a policy. Keep your options open; you never know what you’ll find.

Sam Rakestraw
Sam Rakestraw

Senior Insurance Analyst

Sam Rakestraw is a senior insurance analyst and content writer for Insurance Navy. His articles are all written with a deep familiarity and knowledge of all aspects of the insurance industry. Sam is also a freelance journalist for publications such as Off-Kilter Media, where he has a reputation for interviewing up-and-coming local musicians. Sam has a BA in Journalism from High Point University.