Non-Owner Car Insurance In California: Cheapest And Best Companies 2025
In California, Kemper offers the lowest rates for non-owner car insurance, averaging $450 annually. According to my research, Kemper Insurance is the best company for a non-owners policy in California.
We’ve saved shoppers an average of $600 per year on their car insurance.
When it comes to non-owner car insurance in California, Kemper stands out as the cheapest option, with an average annual rate of $450. That is compared to the California state average of $480 per year.
Non-owner car insurance is for drivers who don’t own a car but still need insurance, non-owner policies provide liability coverage when you’re behind the wheel of a borrowed or rented vehicle. This type of insurance is a cost-effective solution for those who want to meet state requirements or maintain continuous coverage without owning a car.
Key Takeaways
Non-owner car insurance in California costs an average of $480 per year
Kemper offers the lowest non-owners rates in California at an average of $450 per year.
Kemper Insurance is the best non-owner car insurance company in California.
Does California Allow Non-Owner Car Insurance?
Yes, California allows non-owner car insurance policies. These policies are specifically designed for individuals who do not own a vehicle but occasionally drive rented or borrowed cars. They provide liability coverage, ensuring drivers meet the state’s minimum insurance requirements, which include coverage for bodily injury and property damage.
Non-owner car insurance offers a practical and legal option for those needing liability protection without the commitment of owning a vehicle.
Cheapest Non-Owner Car Insurance In California
In California, Kemper offers the cheapest non-owner car insurance, with an average annual rate of $450.
Use the table below to find affordable rates from other companies.
| Company | Cheapest Annual Rate | Cheapest Monthly Rate |
| Nationwide | $589 | $49 |
| State Farm | $623 | $52 |
| Kemper | $450 | $37 |
| Travelers | $517 | $43 |
| GEICO | $538 | $45 |
Cheapest Non-Owner SR-22 Car Insurance In California
The cheapest non-owner SR-22 car insurance company in California is Farmers, with an average annual rate of $768.
| Company | Annual Rate | Monthly Rate |
| Kemper | $1,000 | $84 |
| Nationwide | $901 | $75 |
| State Farm | $826 | $69 |
| Geico | $905 | $76 |
| Farmers | $768 | $64 |
What Is Non-Owner Car Insurance?
If you often find yourself behind the wheel of a vehicle that isn’t yours, whether it’s a rental or a car borrowed from a friend or family member, you may want to consider non-owner car insurance.
Non-owner car insurance primarily offers liability coverage. If you’re responsible for an accident while driving a car that isn’t yours, your non-owner policy can cover the medical and repair expenses of the other party involved.
Some insurance companies may also provide additional options, such as uninsured/underinsured motorist protection and personal injury protection.
However, it’s important to understand that non-owner insurance usually doesn’t include comprehensive or collision coverage. This means the cost of any damage to the vehicle you’re driving may not be covered.
For individuals who frequently rent cars or borrow vehicles, non-owner car insurance can be beneficial. It provides an added layer of security on top of any coverage the vehicle’s owner might already have.
In many cases, it can be more economical than always opting for insurance from a rental company.
Additionally, having a non-owner policy helps maintain continuous insurance coverage, which could lead to lower premiums if you decide to buy a car in the future.
| Coverage Type | Non-Owner Car Insurance | Full Coverage Policy |
| Liability Coverage | Covers bodily injury and property damage you cause to others. | Covers bodily injury and property damage you cause to others. |
| Comprehensive Coverage | Does not cover damages to the vehicle you’re driving from non-collision incidents like theft, fire, or vandalism. | Covers damages to your vehicle from non-collision incidents like theft, fire, or vandalism. |
| Collision Coverage | Does not cover damages to the vehicle you’re driving from a collision, regardless of fault. | Covers damages to your vehicle from a collision, regardless of fault. |
| Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Protection | Optional. Some insurers offer this as an additional coverage. | Can cover your losses if you’re involved in an accident with an uninsured or underinsured driver. |
| Personal Injury Protection (PIP) | Optional. Some insurers offer this as an additional coverage. | Can cover medical expenses for you and your passengers, regardless of who is at fault. |
| Rental Car Coverage | Provides liability coverage when you rent a vehicle. | Typically requires additional rental reimbursement coverage. |
Average Cost Of Non-Owner Car Insurance In California
Navigating the landscape of non-owner car insurance can be a daunting task, with numerous providers and varying rates. It’s important to make an informed decision, understanding the cost implications of your choice.
To assist you in this process, we’ve created a comparison chart detailing the average cost of non-owner car insurance from five leading providers.
| Insurer | Average Monthly Rate |
| Travelers | $69 |
| State Farm | $72 |
| Progressive | $75 |
| Nationwide | $77 |
| GEICO | $80 |
How Much Is Non-Owner Car Insurance In California – By Age?
Similar to full coverage car insurance rates, the price of non owner car insurance is highest for teen drivers and gradually decreases each year until age 55.
These are sample rates for non owner car insurance in California for 10 different ages
| Age | Average Annual Rate |
| 16 | $856 |
| 18 | $757 |
| 21 | $470 |
| 25 | $400 |
| 35 | $338 |
| 45 | $331 |
| 55 | $322 |
| 65 | $332 |
| 70 | $350 |
| 75 | $385 |
Best Non-Owner Car Insurance In California 2025
Best Overall
Key Statistics
Why We Like Them
⇅State Farm stands out as the premier option for non-owner car insurance in California. This is largely due to its competitive pricing, comprehensive coverage options, and excellent customer service.
When it comes to affordability, State Farm isn’t the cheapest, but it’s competitively priced, considering that the level of customer service you receive leads the pack. The company offers rates of $213 per year for a non-owner liability policy, significantly lower than the average cost of non-owner auto insurance in California, which stands at $323 annually.
State Farm’s non-owner car insurance coverage includes liability protection, ensuring financial safety in case you’re found responsible for bodily injury or property damage. Furthermore, if your existing personal auto policy with State Farm includes comprehensive coverage, this can extend to your rental car, providing an additional layer of protection.
State Farm’s commitment to customer service solidifies it earning the top spot in our ratings. With easy access via their dedicated contact number or phone app, State Farm ensures policyholders receive prompt assistance when needed.
While price is undoubtedly a key factor when selecting a non-owner car insurance policy, it’s crucial not to overlook the importance of exceptional customer service. Insurance is about more than just cost; it’s about peace of mind and knowing you’re fully supported when you need it most.
The ability of an insurance company to swiftly handle claims, answer questions, and provide guidance is invaluable.
Benefits & Drawbacks
⇅- Competitive pricing
- Extensive coverage
- High customer satisfaction ✓
- Lack of comprehensive or collision coverage for non-owner policies
- Limited discounts available
- Some lower-priced options are available ✘
Best Runner-Up
Key Statistics
Why We Like Them
⇅When it comes to non-owner car insurance in California, Travelers emerges as our best runner-up. This is primarily due to their tailored policies and excellent customer service.
Travelers is renowned for its superior customer service, a crucial factor when choosing an insurance provider. In the event of an accident or claim, you want an insurer that provides prompt, efficient service and guides you through the process. Travelers has consistently demonstrated its commitment to customer satisfaction, making it a reliable choice for non-owner car insurance.
Coupled with its wide range of coverage options, including standard liability, collision, and uninsured/underinsured coverage, Travelers offers comprehensive non owner insurance protection at an affordable price.
Non-owner car insurance primarily offers liability protection, covering damages you may cause to others. However, the inclusion of comprehensive and collision coverage can significantly enhance your protection, making it a wise choice for many drivers.
Comprehensive coverage safeguards against non-collision-related incidents such as theft, vandalism, or damage from natural disasters, ensuring you’re not left out-of-pocket should any of these events occur.
Meanwhile, collision coverage offers protection if you’re involved in an accident with another vehicle or object, regardless of who’s at fault.
Benefits & Drawbacks
⇅- Comprehensive coverage
- Superior customer service
- Competitive pricing ✓
- No online quotes
- Limited discounts
- Higher rates for high-risk drivers ✘
What Is SR-22 Insurance?
Technically, SR-22 isn’t an insurance policy. It’s a vehicle liability insurance document required by most state Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) offices for “high-risk” insurance policies.
This form, filed by your insurance company, provides proof that you have the minimum required amount of liability insurance coverage for your state.
It’s often required for drivers who have had their licenses suspended due to traffic violations, DUIs, or other serious offenses.
The SR-22 form serves as a certificate of financial responsibility, indicating that the driver has purchased the necessary amount of auto liability insurance coverage. The primary purpose of this document is to verify that an individual is maintaining car insurance liability coverage.
It’s usually mandated by the state or court order, especially for drivers who are considered high-risk. The insurance company will file this form with the state, and if at any point the policy lapses, the insurer is obligated to notify the state.
Find Affordable Insurance Today
Average Cost Of Non-Owner Car Insurance In California – By City
These are sample rates for five small cities in California:
| City | Sample Average Annual Rate |
| Big Pine | $242 |
| Calexico | $249 |
| Mendecino | $260 |
| Hayfork | $260 |
| Mount Shasta | $264 |
How Much Is Non-Owner Car Insurance In California’s 10 Biggest Cities?
A city’s size is an important factor when insurers determine car insurance rate. Residents of larger cities with heavier traffic pay higher rates for car insurance:
| City | Average Annual Rate |
| Los Angeles | $546 |
| Anaheim | $371 |
| Sacramento | $367 |
| San Francisco | $363 |
| Oakland | $357 |
| Fresno | $334 |
| San Jose | $335 |
| San Diego | $331 |
| Bakersfield | $327 |
| Walker | $239 |
How Non-Owner Insurance Rates In California Compare To Other States
Surprisingly, California’s average annual rate of $323 for non owner car insurance falls below the national average of $353. Non-owner rates in the 12 most populated states:
| State | Average Annual Premium |
| North Carolina | $937 |
| Florida | $770 |
| New York | $590 |
| Michigan | $585 |
| Texas | $419 |
| Illinois | $396 |
| Georgia | $384 |
| National Average | $353 |
| Pennsylvania | $348 |
| California | $323 |
| Ohio | $241 |
Should You Get Non-Owner Car Insurance In California?
Non-owner car insurance is a type of auto insurance policy designed for individuals who don’t own a car but still drive occasionally. It provides liability coverage if you cause an accident while driving a rented or borrowed vehicle.
In California, several types of individuals should consider purchasing non-owner car insurance.
Frequent Renters And Borrowers
If you frequently rent cars or borrow vehicles from friends or family, non-owner car insurance is an excellent consideration. Rental companies do provide insurance options, but they can be expensive if you rent regularly.
Similarly, while the owner’s insurance may cover some accidents, having your own policy ensures you’re protected without affecting the owner’s premium.
Public Transport Commuters With Occasional Driving Needs
Many Californians rely on public transport or rideshare services for their daily commute and only drive occasionally. You might belong to this category if you live in an urban area with good public transportation or if you prefer biking or walking most of the time.
However, there might be instances when driving is unavoidable. In such cases, having non-owner insurance gives you the financial protection you need.
Individuals Trying To Maintain Continuous Coverage
Insurance companies often view drivers without continuous coverage as high-risk, which could lead to higher premiums when you decide to purchase a car.
If you’ve sold your vehicle and plan to be without one for a while, a non-owner policy helps maintain continuous coverage, keeping your insurance history intact. This strategy can be particularly beneficial when you eventually buy a car and need regular insurance.
Minimum Car Insurance Requirements In California
According to the State Of California’s DMV, these are the minimum liability requirements:
- $5,000 property damage per accident
- $30,000 for bodily injury liability per accident
- $15,000 for bodily injury liability per person.
This is otherwise known as 15/30/5
What Does Non-Owner Car Insurance Cover?
A non-owner car insurance policy primarily provides liability insurance, which covers the costs associated with bodily injury or property damage you may cause to others in an accident.
It’s essential to note that non-owner car insurance doesn’t cover damages to the vehicle you’re driving; this should be covered by the car owner’s insurance policy.
In addition to liability coverage, some non-owner car insurance policies offer optional medical payments or personal injury protection (PIP). These additions can cover your medical expenses following an accident, regardless of who was at fault.
Uninsured/underinsured motorist protection is another optional feature that protects you if you’re involved in an accident with a driver who has insufficient or no insurance coverage.
However, it’s crucial to understand that non-owner car insurance does not include comprehensive or collision coverage.
This means damages to the vehicle you’re driving due to theft, vandalism, natural disasters, or collision are typically not covered.
How To Get Non-Owner Car Insurance In California
Following these five steps will help you secure non-owner car insurance in California smoothly and efficiently.
Understand Your Needs
Before you start the process, it’s crucial to understand why you need non-owner car insurance. Are you frequently renting vehicles, or do you often borrow cars from friends or family?
Do you need to file a non-owner SR-22 form to get your license reinstated? Define your requirements clearly to find the best fit for your situation.
Gather Your Personal Information
To get a quote for non-owner car insurance, you need to provide some basic personal information, such as your name, address, and driver’s license number.
This information helps the insurer assess your risk level and determine your premium.
Compare Rates From Different Providers
Not all insurance companies offer the same rates for non-owner car insurance. It’s highly recommended to compare quotes from different providers to ensure you’re getting the best deal.
Choose The Right Coverage
Most non-owner car insurance policies provide liability coverage, covering the costs if you cause an accident.
However, depending on your needs and the insurance company, you might be able to add additional coverages like uninsured motorist protection or medical payments. Make sure to choose a policy that meets your specific needs.
Purchase Your Policy And Obtain Proof Of Insurance
Once you’ve chosen a policy, you can usually purchase it online or over the phone. After purchasing, you’ll obtain proof of insurance almost immediately, often via email. If necessary, your provider can also file an SR-22 on your behalf.
Our Methodology
Drawing upon a comprehensive analysis that encompasses multiple facets such as customer service ratings, product options, pricing, and a thorough evaluation of various online review sites and user experience, I've crafted an in-depth view of the landscape of non owner car insurance providers.
This is an informed perspective, honed by over 15 years of personal involvement in the industry as a licensed agent, countless interactions with representatives from various companies, and insights gleaned from firsthand purchasing experiences in California.
Quotes Analyzed
Years Of Industry Experience
Brands Reviewed
Research Hours
FAQs
Do you need car insurance if you don’t own a car in California?
Yes, you do need car insurance even if you don’t own a car in California. This is where non-owner car insurance comes into play. If you frequently drive a borrowed or rented vehicle, this policy provides liability coverage for any accidents caused while driving.
Can I buy auto insurance for someone else’s car in California?
Yes, you can buy auto insurance for someone else’s car in California. However, the process isn’t as straightforward as insuring a car you own. While the owner of the vehicle doesn’t always have to be the policyholder, insurance companies typically prefer that the person insuring the car has an “insurable interest” in it, such as a co-owner or frequent driver. If you’re not the owner but frequently drive the car, a non-owner car insurance policy might be a better fit.
Who offers the cheapest non owners car insurance in California?
Based on our research, Kemper offers the cheapest rates in California for non owner car insurance.
