If you’re seeking a creative approach to car insurance, you could be interested in a temporary car insurance policy. However, short-term car insurance is uncommon for a few reasons.
Some many insurance companies do not provide policies for periods shorter than six months. As car insurance is legally required in most states, it can be risky to jump between policies. You also run the risk of creating gaps in your insurance history by swapping policies frequently, which could lead to more expensive rates in the long run.
Fortunately, car insurance contracts commonly run for only six months. This quick duration allows insurance companies to “re-rate” — or re-price — your bill based on your current driving record and personal profile.
It also gives you a timely opportunity for you to reevaluate your situation by shopping for a policy with other insurers. Comparing quotes via The Zebra is easy and free, and there isn't a penalty for trading insurers when your policy ends — or even mid-policy, assuming you never let your coverage lapse.
The flexible nature of car insurance makes it easy to acquire with almost no notice. If you require a policy to take a new car off of the lot, looking for insurance for a longer-term car rental or searching for coverage on a vehicle you don't own but drive regularly, consider purchasing a policy and ending the agreement as needed.
Temporary car insurance in New Jersey
Below are normal car insurance rates in New Jersey, organized by popular car insurance companies and cities. If your bills exceed the rates listed below, think about shopping around.
SHORT-TERM AUTO INSURANCE RATES IN NEW JERSEY — BY INSURER
| Insurance Company | Average 6-Month Rate | Average Monthly Rate |
| New Jersey State Average — All Companies | $796 | $133 |
| GEICO | $677 | $113 |
| New Jersey Manufacturers | $779 | $130 |
| State Farm | $880 | $147 |
| Penn National | $888 | $148 |
| Progressive | $1,002 | $167 |
The cheapest option for single-month auto insurance in New Jersey is GEICO, which can save you $17 per month, compared to the next-best option, New Jersey Manufacturers. In New Jersey, the average monthly cost of auto insurance is $133, or $796 over a biannual term.
Where you live has as great an influence on your insurance premiums as the insurance company you choose. Auto insurance companies consider the number of local insurance claims when assigning rates by ZIP code. View insurance prices in major New Jersey cities and compare against what you’re paying.
TEMPORARY AUTO INSURANCE RATES IN NEW JERSEY — BY CITY
| City | Average 6-Month Rate | Average Monthly Rate |
| Newark | $1,205 | $201 |
| Jersey City | $1,003 | $167 |
| Paterson | $1,168 | $195 |
| Elizabeth | $1,142 | $148 |
| Toms River | $738 | $123 |
Because of the myriad factors involved in setting insurance rates, your quotes may not match the totals displayed above. If your current costs don’t align with those listed above, think about taking a moment to shop around. The temporary nature of a car insurance contract reinforces the importance of staying informed and willing to shop.
Learn more about temporary car insurance or use The Zebra to see personalized quotes for free today.
Enter your ZIP code to compare rates.
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.