A person driving a red van whistling with dice hanging from the rearview mirror is seen in this image. "The Paperwork Required for Car Insurance," with the phrase "social security number; declaration page; voided check; driver's license; bank information; vehicle information (including VIN)" as the headline.
Even in today's digital era, obtaining vehicle insurance can necessitate a significant amount of paperwork. To get a price quote and then receive your coverage, you must provide a lot of information. When you are insured, the insurance provider will also send you documentation.
Vehicle Specifications
Your insurance company, of course, wants to know what kind of vehicle you're insuring. Your vehicle identification number (VIN) will be required. This is usually found on the driver's side of the dashboard; looking through the windshield is the easiest method to find it. It could potentially be inside the driver's side door frame. It's also listed on your car's title and, if you have one, on your existing car insurance policy.
You should also know the vehicle's year, make, and model. Also, take notice of any safety or anti-theft devices installed on the vehicle; this could help you save money on your insurance costs. You'll also need to provide an estimate of how many miles you'll drive each year. You may also be questioned when you purchased the vehicle.
You'll need to present your car's registration, which demonstrates that the state where you live has registered your ownership of the vehicle.
Current Declaration's Page
If you already have a car insurance policy, you'll want to give the insurance company you're obtaining a quote from your existing declaration page. The DEC page will serve as confirmation that you have car insurance. It will inform the agent providing you with a quote about the type of coverage you currently have on your vehicle.
Information on the Driver
A copy of your driver's license will very certainly be requested by your insurer. They'll also require a copy of each driver's license who will be covered by the coverage. A driver's license number can be used to gain access to your Motor Vehicle Report (MVR) driving record. This can assist them in locating any previous accidents or moving infractions. They'll also get a report from the Comprehensive Loss Underwriting Exchange (CLUE) to see if you've submitted any claims.
The length of time covered by an MVR varies by state, although most cover three to seven years.
If the addresses aren't the same, the insurer will need your home address and the address where the automobile will be parked. When determining your premiums, the location where you keep your car is taken into account.
The Social Security numbers (SSNs) of all people who will be driving the car may also be requested by the insurance company. It's easy to find other information when you have access to SSNs.
Information on credit and banking
Before deciding whether or not to insure you, insurance firms will most likely do a credit check to see if you have a history of late payments. If you wish to set up an automatic payment plan, you should also have a voided check—or at the very least, your checking account number and the bank's routing number—on hand.
Verification of Discounts
Premiums may be discounted by car insurance companies. If you are a safe driver, a homeowner, an honor student, or a member of specific organizations, they may be a choice for you. Your driving safety record will be covered by the MVR. For the other forms of discounts, you'll need to show confirmation of your status.
Different insurers may accept different papers for proof of homeownership. A homeowner's insurance policy, deed, or property tax records should be enough in most circumstances. A current report card is required if you want to earn a good student discount. If you want to get a discount because you're a member of a certain group, you'll have to present proof.
Your Insurance Company's Paperwork
Insurance firms don't only want you to fill out paperwork. They mail it to you as well. You'll need to keep track of the following details:
Your car insurance policy contains all of the information you need about your coverage. Automobile insurance coverage can be quite lengthy. However, make sure you read and comprehend yours completely.
All of your information is provided on the declaration page in an easier-to-read style. When you have issues with your coverage or the cost, this should be your go-to paper.
Keep your proof of insurance in a secure location within the vehicle. If you are pulled over for any reason or are involved in an accident, you will be required to present it.