Non-Owner Car Insurance In North Carolina 2024

In-depth research points to Kemper as the standout choice for both affordability and top-notch coverage in non-owner car insurance across North Carolina.

We’ve saved shoppers an average of $600 per year on their car insurance.

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Updated: 29 September 2024
Written by Doug Schaffer
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I get the struggle of juggling car costs with other financial priorities. For many North Carolinians, the monthly combo of a car payment and insurance competes with the weight of their rent or mortgage.

To lighten the load, more and more North Carolinians are opting out of traditional car ownership, choosing to share or rent when wheels are needed. Non-owner car insurance steps in as their financial safety net, providing coverage without the full commitment of vehicle ownership.

With 15 years as a licensed insurance agent and over three decades buying car insurance, I know these companies extremely well. While they’re all reliable, each shines uniquely in different categories, in helping out fellow North Carolinians.

Cheapest Non-Owner Car Insurance In North Carolina, 2024

Best Non-Owner Car Insurance, North Carolina 2024

Compare The Cheapest Non-Owner Car Insurance In North Carolina

Overall Rating Best For J.D Power Rating A.M Best Rating Get A Quote
Kemper
4.7

Cheapest Overall

736

A-

Instant Quote
Progressive
4.8

Cheapest With A Clean Driving Record

809

A+

Instant Quote
State Farm
4.9

Overall

826

A++

Instant Quote
Farmers
4.7

Cheapest Non Owner SR-22

810

A-

Instant Quote
Travelers
4.8

Runner-Up

Not Rated

A++

Instant Quote
Scroll to see comparisons

Our Methodology

Drawing from a comprehensive analysis encompassing customer service evaluations, product variety, pricing assessments, and an extensive exploration of online reviews and user feedback, I've constructed a comprehensive overview of non-owner car insurance providers.
My perspective is well-grounded, forged through more than 15 years of direct involvement in the industry as a licensed agent, numerous interactions with representatives spanning various companies, and insights amassed from firsthand encounters with purchasing in North Carolina.

62

Quotes Analyzed

15+

Years Of Industry Experience

22

Brands Reviewed

25+

Research Hours

Best Non-Owner Car Insurance Companies In North Carolina 2024


Cheapest Overall

Overall Rating
4.7

Key Statistics

10/10 Affordability
7/10 Customer Reviews
8/10 Claim Payouts
10/10 Coverage Level

Why We Like Them

In the realm of affordable non-owner car insurance in North Carolina, Kemper takes the lead, particularly in catering to high-risk drivers. Kemper’s policies extend across the state and all 50 states through independent agents.

While Kemper is renowned for its budget-friendly rates in North Carolina, it doesn’t necessarily top the charts in customer satisfaction, according to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners. However, it holds the 11th spot among the largest insurers in the U.S., indicating its continued popularity among policyholders.

For active-duty military members or National Guard personnel without personal vehicles, particularly those deployed or residing on a military base who frequently use others’ vehicles, Kemper presents a viable option for consideration.

North Carolina is known for its high cost of living, which also extends to car insurance. The presence of heavy traffic and a substantial number of uninsured or underinsured drivers has driven up the expenses related to car ownership and insurance to levels that many find challenging to afford.

Consequently, an increasing number of individuals are choosing to forgo owning a car and instead turning to rental vehicles. Finding affordable non-owner car insurance is a financial relief for many North Carolinians, enabling them to save on insurance costs for vehicles they no longer own.

Benefits & Drawbacks

Benefits
  • Most affordable rates for non-owner insurance in North Carolina
  • Option to obtain an SR-22 if needed
  • Impressive AM Best financial strength rating
Drawbacks
  • Elevated number of customer complaints related to policyholder service
  • Mobile app received low ratings

Rates For The Cheapest Non-Owner Car Insurance In North Carolina

Insurance company Monthly Rate
Nationwide $24
Progressive $43
GEICO $48
State Farm $61
Allstate $77

Cheapest With A Clean Driving Record

Overall Rating
4.8

Key Statistics

9/10 Affordability
8/10 Customer Reviews
8/10 Claim Payouts
9/10 Coverage Level

Why We Like Them

Progressive stands out as a leading choice for non-owner car insurance in North Carolina, especially if your driving record is spotless. Their non-owner insurance offers essential liability coverage, protecting drivers from substantial expenses related to injuries or property damage caused to others in an accident. This is crucial because North Carolina mandates financial responsibility for all vehicles on its roads.

You can acquire Progressive non-owner car insurance through independent agents, and Progressive, renowned for its robust financial ratings and claims-paying capability, directly oversees the service.

Drivers with unblemished driving histories benefit from more budget-friendly rates for non-owner car insurance. Their lower risk profile makes them attractive to insurance companies, who appreciate safe driving habits. This not only benefits the drivers by reducing their premiums but also provides insurance companies with a competitive advantage by minimizing financial losses from claims. Keeping a clean driving record is a substantial way to cut down on your insurance costs.

Benefits & Drawbacks

Benefits
  • Wide array of coverage options
  • Most competitive rates for good drivers
  • Discounts offered for safe driving practices
Drawbacks
  • Lack of rental car coverage
  • Varied customer service reviews
  • Non-owner car insurance unavailable in certain states

Cheapest Non Owner SR-22

Overall Rating
4.7

Key Statistics

9/10 Affordability
7/10 Customer Reviews
9/10 Claim Payouts
8/10 Coverage Level

Why We Like Them

Farmers has established itself as a dependable non-owner car insurance provider, particularly for those in need of an SR-22. This form is vital for individuals categorized as “high-risk” by the state, often due to violations like DUIs, reckless driving, or driving without insurance.

What makes Farmers stand out is their specialized services designed for high-risk drivers. They not only offer SR-22 insurance but also provide valuable assistance to drivers with suspended licenses, helping them reinstate their licenses quickly and with minimal hassle. This commitment to a hassle-free experience sets Farmers apart from many other insurance providers.

When it comes to cost, Farmers offers SR-22 insurance at just a 2% average increase compared to regular car insurance. This affordability, coupled with comprehensive coverage, positions Farmers as a cost-effective option for North Carolina drivers in need of an SR-22.

Choosing non-owner SR-22 insurance is a smart choice for high-risk drivers without their own vehicle but with occasional driving needs. It offers vital liability coverage, protecting you from the financial repercussions if you’re responsible for an accident while driving a borrowed or rented car.

Moreover, it allows you to maintain uninterrupted insurance coverage, demonstrating financial responsibility. This helps prevent any gaps in your insurance history, ultimately averting potential increases in future premiums.

Benefits & Drawbacks

Benefits
  • Specializes in high-risk drivers
  • Offers the most economical rates for non-owner SR-22 coverage
  • Provides comprehensive coverage options
Drawbacks
  • Some policyholders have reported challenges with claim handling and resolution
  • Rates tend to be higher for high-risk drivers

Best Overall

Overall Rating
4.9

Key Statistics

9/10 Affordability
10/10 Customer Reviews
10/10 Claim Payouts
8/10 Coverage Level

Why We Like Them

In North Carolina, State Farm takes the lead in non-owner car insurance. It’s a solid choice thanks to its competitive rates, diverse coverage options, and exceptional customer service.

While State Farm might not be the absolute cheapest, its prices are competitive. Their rates start at $213 per year for a non-owner liability policy, which is notably lower than the state’s average of approximately $323 annually for non-owner auto insurance.

State Farm’s non-owner car insurance includes vital liability protection, ensuring financial security if you’re held responsible for injuries or property damage. Furthermore, if you have an existing personal auto policy with State Farm that includes comprehensive coverage, this protection can extend to your rental car, adding an extra layer of security.

The emphasis on exceptional customer service solidifies State Farm’s position as our top recommendation. They offer easy access through their dedicated contact number and phone app, ensuring policyholders receive prompt assistance when needed.

While cost is undoubtedly a crucial factor when selecting non-owner car insurance, don’t overlook the importance of top-notch customer service. Insurance goes beyond mere numbers; it’s about the peace of mind and the certainty that you have full support when you need it the most.

The effectiveness of an insurance company in managing claims, responding to inquiries, and providing guidance is genuinely priceless.

Benefits & Drawbacks

Benefits
  • Competitive pricing
  • Extensive coverage options
  • High customer satisfaction levels
Drawbacks
  • Absence of comprehensive or collision coverage for non-owner policies
  • Limited availability of discounts
  • Presence of some lower-priced alternatives

Best Runner-Up

Overall Rating
4.8

Key Statistics

9/10 Affordability
8/10 Customer Reviews
8/10 Claim Payouts
9/10 Coverage Level

Why We Like Them

In the realm of non-owner car insurance in North Carolina, Travelers stands as our top runner-up, and this distinction is primarily due to their personalized policies and excellent customer service.

Travelers is well-known for its superior customer service, which plays a crucial role in selecting an insurance provider. In case of an accident or a claim, having an insurer that provides swift and efficient service and guides you through the process is of utmost importance. Travelers consistently demonstrates its commitment to customer satisfaction, establishing itself as a reliable choice for non-owner car insurance.

Paired with a wide range of coverage options, including standard liability, collision, and uninsured/underinsured coverage, Travelers offers comprehensive non-owner insurance protection at an affordable cost.

Non-owner car insurance primarily offers liability protection, covering damages you might cause to others. However, here’s the thing—opting for comprehensive and collision coverage can significantly enhance your protection, making it a prudent choice for many drivers.

Comprehensive coverage comes to your rescue in non-collision incidents such as theft, vandalism, or damage from natural disasters. This ensures you won’t be left with out-of-pocket expenses if any of these events occur.

On the flip side, collision coverage comes into play if you’re involved in an accident with another vehicle or object, regardless of fault. It’s an additional layer of security.

Benefits & Drawbacks

Benefits
  • Comprehensive coverage
  • Superior customer service
  • Competitive pricing
Drawbacks
  • Absence of online quotes
  • Limited availability of discounts
  • Elevated rates for high-risk drivers

What Is Non-Owner Car Insurance

If you frequently drive a vehicle that isn’t yours—whether it’s a rental or borrowed from someone you know—consider exploring non-owner car insurance.

This type of insurance primarily provides liability coverage. If you’re responsible for an accident while driving a non-owned vehicle, your non-owner s insurance policy can handle the medical and repair costs for the other party involved.

Some insurers may offer additional options, like protection against uninsured or underinsured motorists and personal injury coverage. However, it’s important to note that non-owner insurance typically doesn’t include comprehensive or collision coverage. Therefore, any damage to the car you’re driving might not be covered.

For those who regularly rent or borrow vehicles, non-owner auto insurance adds an extra layer of protection in addition to what the vehicle’s owner may already have. Often, it proves to be a more cost-effective option than purchasing insurance from a rental company.

Moreover, having a non-owners insurance policy ensures continuous insurance coverage, potentially resulting in lower premiums if you decide to own a car later on.

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.

What Is Sr-22 Insurance?

SR-22 isn’t an insurance policy in itself. It’s a specific document required by most state Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) offices, especially for those classified as high-risk in their insurance profiles.

This form is filed by your chosen insurance provider and serves as proof that you maintain the minimum required level of liability insurance coverage, as mandated by your state’s regulations.

Typically, individuals facing license suspension due to severe traffic violations, DUIs, or other significant infractions need an SR-22.

The SR-22 document acts as a certificate of financial responsibility, confirming that you have secured the necessary amount of auto liability insurance coverage. Its primary function is to demonstrate that you consistently maintain the required car insurance liability insurance.

This requirement is usually imposed by the state or through a court order, particularly for drivers classified as high-risk. The insurance company is responsible for submitting this form to the state, and should the policy ever lapse, it’s their obligation to promptly notify the state authorities.

Should You Get Non-Owner Car Insurance In North Carolina?

Non-owner car insurance serves those who lack a vehicle but occasionally take the wheel. It offers liability coverage if you’re in an accident while driving a borrowed or rented vehicle.

In North Carolina, several groups can benefit from non-owner auto insurance:

Frequent Renters And Borrowers

For those who often rent or borrow vehicles, having non-owner insurance is a wise choice. Rental companies’ insurance can be expensive for frequent users. Your own policy offers protection without affecting the vehicle owner’s premiums.

Public Transport Commuters With Occasional Driving Needs

If you primarily use public transportation or rideshares but occasionally drive, non-owner insurance provides the financial protection you need for those sporadic drives.

Individuals Aiming To Maintain Continuous Coverage

Insurance providers may view coverage gaps as risky, potentially leading to higher future premiums. If you’ve sold your car and won’t own one for some time, a non-owners insurance policy helps you maintain continuous coverage. This can be a savvy move when you eventually purchase a car and need regular insurance.

Average Cost Of Non-Owner Car Insurance In North Carolina

Navigating the realm of non-owner car insurance can be quite a task, considering the multitude of providers and ever-changing rates. Making an informed choice requires a clear understanding of the cost aspects involved.

To streamline this process, we’ve put together a comparison chart that details the average expenses for non-owner car insurance from some well-known providers.

Insurance company Monthly Rate
Nationwide $23
Kemper $62
Farmers $43
Progressive $47
GEICO $49
State Farm $63
Allstate $75

How Much Is Non-Owner Car Insurance In North Carolina By Age?

Similar to comprehensive car insurance, non-owner car insurance rates adhere to a distinct pattern. They tend to be highest for teenage drivers and progressively decrease each year until age 55.

Here, you’ll find example rates for non-owner auto insurance in North Carolina across ten distinct age groups.

Age Average Annual Rate
16 $1,203
18 $1,150
21 $1,170
25 $1,023
35 $996
45 $965
55 $960
65 $994
70 $1,026
75 $1,132

Average Cost Of Non-Owners Car Insurance In North Carolina Cities

These are sample car insurance rates for five cities in North Carolina:

City Sample Average Annual Rate
Green Mountain $805
Charlotte $1,268
Creston $801
Fort Bragg $1,284
Blowing Rock $815

How Much Is Non-Owner Car Insurance In North Carolina’s 10 Biggest Cities?

The size of a city significantly influences how insurance companies determine car insurance rates. In larger cities with heavier traffic, residents often encounter higher auto insurance costs.

City Average Annual Rate
Wilmington $1,138
Crumpler $801
Durham $1,153
Cary $960
Fayetteville $1,262
Concord $1,135
Greensboro $860
Burnsville $802
Raleigh $1,146
Charlotte $1,301

How Non-Owner Insurance Rates In North Carolina Compare To Rates In Other States

Notably, the annual average rate for non-owner car insurance in North Carolina, standing at $937, is considerably above the national average of $353. Below, we’ve outlined non-owner insurance rates in the 12 most populous states:

State Average Annual Premium
North Carolina $980
Florida $660
New York $575
Michigan $569
Texas $402
Illinois $280
Georgia $368
National Average $351
Pennsylvania $210
California $320
Ohio $200

What Does Non-Owner Car Insurance Cover?

Non-owner car insurance primarily covers liability, addressing expenses for bodily injury or property damage you may cause in an accident.

It’s important to understand that non-owner car insurance doesn’t cover damages to the vehicle you’re driving; typically, the owner’s insurance handles that.

In addition to liability, some non-owner vehicle insurance policies offer optional medical payments or personal injury protection (PIP). These options can manage your medical costs after an accident, regardless of fault.

You might also consider adding uninsured/underinsured motorist protection. This optional feature safeguards you in case of an accident with a driver who has inadequate or no insurance coverage.

However, it’s crucial to note that non-owner car insurance doesn’t include comprehensive or collision coverage. Therefore, damages to the vehicle you’re driving due to theft, vandalism, natural disasters, or collisions are usually not covered.

How To Get Non-Owners Car Insurance In North Carolina

These five steps will guide you through the process of securing non-owner car insurance in North Carolina efficiently.

Define Your Needs

To begin, it’s essential to understand why you need non-owner car insurance. Are you a frequent renter or someone who regularly borrows vehicles from friends or family? Do you require a non-owner SR-22 form for reinstating your license? Clearly identifying your needs is crucial to finding the right fit for your situation.

1

Gather Your Personal Information

When seeking a quote for non-owner car insurance, you’ll need to provide basic personal details such as your name, address, and driver’s license number. This information helps insurers evaluate your risk and determine your premium.

2

Compare Rates From Different Providers

It’s important to note that not all insurance companies offer the same rates for non-owner car insurance. We highly recommend comparing quotes from different providers to ensure you secure the best deal.

3

Select The Appropriate Coverage

While most non-owner car insurance policies cover liability and handle costs if you’re involved in an accident, additional options like uninsured motorist protection or medical payments may be available, depending on your needs and the insurer. Choose a policy that aligns with your specific requirements.

4

Purchase Your Policy And Obtain Proof Of Insurance

After choosing a policy, you can typically purchase it online or over the phone. Upon purchase, you’ll receive proof of insurance, often via email, almost immediately. If necessary, your provider can also file an SR-22 on your behalf.

5

FAQs

Do you need car insurance if you don’t own a car in North Carolina?

Certainly, having car insurance remains a necessity in North Carolina, even if you’re not a car owner. Non-owner car insurance is the solution. If you frequently drive vehicles that you’ve borrowed or rented, this policy comes to the rescue by providing liability coverage in case you’re involved in an accident.

Can I buy auto insurance for someone else’s car in North Carolina?

Certainly, it’s possible to buy auto insurance for a car that doesn’t belong to you in North Carolina. However, it’s a bit more complex than insuring a car you own. Typically, insurance companies prefer the person insuring the vehicle to have a clear “insurable interest” in it, such as being a co-owner or a regular driver. If you’re not the owner but frequently drive the car, a non-owner car insurance policy might be a more suitable choice.

Who offers the cheapest non-owners car insurance in North Carolina?

Based on extensive research, it’s evident that Kemper provides the most affordable rates for non-owner car insurance in North Carolina.

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