If you are looking for flexibility in your next auto insurance policy, you might consider a temporary insurance agreement. But short-term car insurance is rare for several reasons.
Most insurers don’t provide policy terms shorter than six months. Because car insurance coverage is mandated by law in most US states, swapping policies by the month can be risky. Additionally, you risk having lapses in your insurance record by changing policies often, resulting in higher rates down the road.
Fortunately, car insurance contracts commonly last for only six months. This allows auto insurance companies to “re-rate” — or re-price — the policy based on your recent driving record and personal information.
The end of a policy period is also a perfect chance for you to assess your situation by getting quotes from other insurers. Shopping policies on the Internet is easy and free, and there isn't a penalty for moving between insurance companies at the start of a new policy — or even mid-policy, assuming you never let your insurance lapse.
The short-term nature of auto insurance means it's relatively easy to buy quickly. If you're asked to purchase an insurance policy before you can drive a new vehicle off the lot, shopping for insurance for long-term auto rental, or seeking coverage on a car you don't own but often drive, consider purchasing a policy and curtailing the agreement as needed.
Temporary car insurance in Massachusetts
See below typical auto insurance rates in Massachusetts, ordered by major insurance companies and the most populous cities. If your costs exceed what you see below, consider other options.
SHORT-TERM AUTO INSURANCE RATES IN MASSACHUSETTS — BY INSURER
| Insurance Company | Average 6-Month Rate | Average Monthly Rate |
| Massachusetts State Average — All Companies | $731 | $122 |
| State Farm | $339 | $56 |
| GEICO | $521 | $87 |
| Norfolk and Dedham Group | $598 | $100 |
| Safety Insurance | $615 | $103 |
| Plymouth Rock | $618 | $103 |
The most affordable option for short-term car insurance in Massachusetts is State Farm, which can save you $30 per month, compared to the next cheapest option, GEICO. In Massachusetts, the average monthly cost of auto insurance is $122, or $731 over a biannual contract.
Where you live can have as great an effect on your car insurance rates as the insurance company you choose. Car insurance companies take into account the density and likelihood of a claim being filed when assigning prices by ZIP code. View insurance premiums in Massachusetts's most populous cities and compare how much you pay.
SHORT-TERM AUTO INSURANCE RATES IN MASSACHUSETTS — BY CITY
| Location | Average 6-Month Rate | Average Monthly Rate |
| Boston | $883 | $147 |
| Worcester | $932 | $155 |
| Springfield | $1,010 | $168 |
| Lowell | $827 | $103 |
| Cambridge | $790 | $132 |
Because so many factors are involved in setting insurance rates, your quotes may not match those displayed above. If your current costs don’t align with those listed above, consider comparing quotes from other companies. The short-term timetable of a car insurance contract adds to the importance of remaining informed and willing to shop.
Find out more about temporary auto insurance or use The Zebra to compare rates for free online.
Additional resources
- Is it possible to get car insurance with no credit history?
- Learn more about weekend-only car insurance.
- Check out the best car insurance options for teen drivers.
- Find cheap auto insurance for new drivers.
Find an affordable six-month policy by comparing rates today.
About The Zebra
The Zebra is not an insurance company. We publish data-backed, expert-reviewed resources to help consumers make more informed insurance decisions.
- The Zebra’s insurance content is written and reviewed for accuracy by licensed insurance agents.
- The Zebra’s insurance editorial content is not subject to review or alteration by insurance companies or partners.
- The Zebra’s editorial team operates independently of the company’s partnerships and commercialization interests, publishing unbiased information for consumer benefit.
- The auto insurance rates published on The Zebra’s pages are based on a comprehensive analysis of car insurance pricing data, evaluating more than 83 million insurance rates from across the United States.