How often should you compare car insurance quotes?

Last updated: November 12, 2026

A good rule of thumb: compare quotes at least once a year, ideally a few weeks before your policy renews. Car insurance policies usually run for six or twelve months, and your price can change at each renewal even if nothing about you changed.

Shop right away after these changes

• You moved. Rates are set partly by ZIP code, so even a move across town can change your price.
• You bought, sold or added a car.
• You got married. Married drivers often pay less.
• A teen started driving. Adding a young driver is one of the biggest price jumps, and companies price it very differently.
• An accident or ticket aged off your record. This usually happens after three to five years.
• Your credit improved, in states where insurers can use it.
• Your renewal price went up and you don't know why.

Does shopping around hurt your credit?

No. Insurance quotes use a "soft" check, if they check credit at all, which doesn't affect your credit score. DriveCheaper never checks your credit.

Should you switch in the middle of a policy?

You can usually cancel and get a refund for the unused part of your premium, though some companies charge a cancellation fee. Make sure your new policy starts before the old one ends so you're never uninsured, even for a day.

Compare car insurance options in your area → It takes about 2 minutes, and we never ask for your name, phone number or email.

DriveCheaper may be paid by companies shown on this site. How we make money. This guide is general information, not insurance advice. Check details with your insurer or your state's insurance department.