Have you recently moved to Indiana or are you planning a move here soon?? If so, welcome to the Hoosier state! We know moving is overwhelming and there are dozens of things on your to-do list, including updating your car insurance. We understand dealing with insurance can be confusing, but we’re here to help you navigate the transfer of your current auto insurance to an Indiana Farm Bureau Insurance auto policy.
We’re experts in this and can assist you during the process! Indiana Farm Bureau Insurance has been serving Hoosiers for nearly 90 years. We have an office in every Indiana county, so we’re part of your new community. We take pride in working with you to create insurance plans that fit the needs of you and your family.
Navigating car insurance changes when you move to Indiana
When moving to a new state, you will need to make some insurance policy adjustments. Some national companies may allow you to transfer insurance to a new state, but it’s important to research to ensure it’s the best choice for you.
To start, you’ll want to do an insurance cost comparison. Most insurance companies offer free quotes, including Indiana Farm Bureau Insurance. But there is more to car insurance than just the price. The Indiana Department of Insurance notes that, “the least expensive policy is not always the best policy.” You want to make sure you are adequately protected should the unexpected occur, so be sure to compare the car insurance policy details as well as the price.
How is my premium rate in Indiana determined?
Auto insurance rates vary according to many factors and are set by each company. Some of the factors are age, marital status, place of residence and car use, but there are other factors affecting the insurance carrier that also play a part, such as the company’s claim history and exposure in the area.
“Each state presents unique circumstances for an insurance company,” Indiana Farm Bureau Insurance Agent Marcus Gossard said. “The state you are moving from may not have the same exposure as the state you’re moving to, which can affect your rates. As an Indiana-only company, we don’t have the same exposures that some national carriers do. Also, the state requirements may not be the same so, you may have more insurance coverage than you need or are required to have. Getting a free quote is easy and helps you make the best decision for your insurance needs.”
Your checklist for a car insurance transfer to Indiana
Here’s a helpful checklist to get you started on this process:
First, keep your current insurance coverage until your new Indiana policy is in effect (this is so important we’ll repeat this reminder again!).
Contact your current insurance agent to see if they offer coverage in Indiana and alert them of your planned move.
Collect free quotes from different insurance companies for a comparison, and in case your current insurance carrier can’t offer you a policy in Indiana.
After you review the new quotes and determine which policy/company/agent is best for you, purchase your new policy.
Once your new auto policy is in effect, contact your prior insurance company and cancel that policy. As promised above, this is your friendly reminder not to do this until your new policy is in place.
What insurance is required in Indiana?
The Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) Driver’s Manual says that, “Indiana law states a person may not operate a motor vehicle in Indiana if financial responsibility is not in effect.” Driving without the required liability policy is against the law. The state insurance minimum liability requirement is often referred to as 25/50/25 liability insurance. It comprises:
$25,000 for bodily injury to, or the death of, one individual
$50,000 for bodily injury to, or the death of, two or more people in any one accident
$25,000 for property damages in any one accident
All new auto insurance policies written in Indiana must also include uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage unless you specifically reject this in writing.
Also, according to the BMV, to obtain your Indiana vehicle registration, you will be required to show proof of insurance, among other documentation such as proof of address, proof of your Social Security number and certificate of title.
Are there ways to save on premiums with Indiana Farm Bureau Insurance?
If you don’t drive very much, you may qualify for the Drive Less, Save More Discount which may help you save up to a 10% discount if you drive less than 12,000 miles a year.
If you’re planning ahead and looking into your Indiana car insurance transfer before you move, you may qualify for the Advance Quote Discount which is available to new clients quoting eligible auto or homeowners policies, as long as the quote is initiated seven or more days prior to the policy effective date.
There are even more ways to save! View the full list of our discounts to see if you may qualify for any others.
Helpful FAQs
Do you have additional questions? Here are some helpful frequently asked questions. If you can’t find the answer you’re looking for, check out our FAQ page or contact one of our local agents today!
Do I have to change my car insurance when moving?
Yes. A car insurance policy must originate in the state you reside. Some national carriers may be able to write a policy in your new state, but each state has its own requirements. Do your research to ensure you have the proper coverage to keep you protected.
Since Indiana Farm Bureau Insurance is domiciled in Indiana, we can only write business for Indiana citizens. We have offices in all 92 counties, so you will have an agent in your own community.
Do I need car insurance to register my vehicle in Indiana?
Indiana BMV registration guidelines do require proof of 25/50/25 liability coverage to register a passenger vehicle.
Will moving to Indiana increase my car insurance premiums?
Premiums are determined by several factors, including your location and where your car is parked (garaged) overnight. Your car insurance may go up, or it may decrease depending on these factors. For example, if you are moving to Tell City, Indiana, from Los Angeles, California, your auto insurance premium will most likely go down since there is a higher probability that there is less crime and traffic in a small Indiana town than there is in a booming metropolis.
What are Indiana's vehicle emissions testing requirements?
Emissions tests in Indiana are not typically required; however, Lake and Porter counties are exceptions and emissions tests are required there. Lake and Porter counties both require that vehicles manufactured after 1975 with a gross vehicle weight rating of 9,000 pounds or less undergo emissions tests and tampering inspections every two years. The Indiana BMV has more information regarding emissions tests in Indiana.
How soon do I need to update my insurance after moving to Indiana?
No matter your insurance carrier, you’ll need to get a new Indiana auto policy when you move to the Hoosier state. This necessity provides you a great opportunity to review your coverage, service and policy premium and obtain a new quote to review. An Indiana Farm Bureau Insurance agent can help you with the insurance transfer process in Indiana today!