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Texas Department of Insurance
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Tips to help you shop for auto insurance

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Shopping for auto insurance is like shopping for any major purchase. It's a good idea to shop around to find the policy that best meets your needs and budget.

  1. Choose your coverage

    Texas law requires drivers to have a way to pay for accidents they cause. Most people do this by buying liability coverage. There are other coverages you can buy to repair your car, pay for a rental car, and pay for other things.

  2. Pick a coverage amount

    State law requires a minimum amount of liability coverage to pay for accidents you cause. The most a minimum liability policy will pay for car repairs is $25,000 ($60,000 for multiple cars) and $30,000 for medical bills.

  3. Choose a deductible

    A deductible is the amount you have to pay before the insurance company will pay a claim. The higher your deductible, the lower your premium.

  4. Compare prices and coverage

    TDI has resources to help you shop.

    • Use our auto insurance shopping guide to learn what questions to ask.
    • Use TDI’s HelpInsure to get sample prices and compare policies. Then contact your top choices directly to get up-to-date price quotes.
    • Call our Help Line at 800-252-3439 to make sure the company or agent you’re considering is licensed.
    • Get price quotes from several companies. You can use an independent agent to help you get quotes.
  5. Ask about discounts

    Most companies offer discounts. Some discounts are for taking a defensive driving class or having a good driving record. Discounts may also be offered for putting more than one car on your policy, or for bundling your auto and home insurance with the same company.

  6. Avoid gaps in coverage

    Never cancel a policy until you get your new policy or a written statement that proves you have coverage.

  7. Trouble finding insurance?

    Keep shopping if a company turns you down. If you can’t find an insurance company to sell you a policy, contact the Texas Automobile Insurance Plan Association (TAIPA).

Resources

 

Questions? Call us at 800-252-3439.

Last updated: 4/9/2025