Insuring Antique Vehicles: Registration Requirements

Whether you need insurance to register an antique vehicle depends on the state you live in. For example, in Texas, you need a safety inspection, an emissions requirement, a title, and sales tax on older cars. In California, a title is required, but a safety inspection is not. In Florida, a title is required, but there is no safety inspection, and the $225 initial registration fee is waived for cars with antique plates. In Maryland, there is no safety inspection, but there is a 6% sales tax and a title is required.

What is considered a classic car?

The definition of a classic car varies depending on the state, insurer, or car club in question. However, there are some general trends.

The Classic Car Club of America defines a classic car as one built between 1915 and 1948. However, for registration purposes, many states would consider cars of that age to be antique or vintage vehicles. For insurance and registration purposes, the age of a classic car is usually considered to be at least 20 years old but not more than 40 years old.

Some states say a car must be at least 20 years old to be considered a classic, while others require it to be at least 25 years old. The Antique Automobile Club of America says a classic car is one between 25 and 50 years old, while the Classic Car Club of America says it is a car produced between 1925 and 1948.

The term "classic car" may include vintage, antique, and collector vehicles. Some states also have their own unique designations for classic cars, such as historical vehicles in California.

It's important to note that the requirements for registering a classic car may differ from state to state, and it's always a good idea to check with the relevant authorities before attempting to register your vehicle.

What are the restrictions on classic cars?

Restrictions on classic cars vary from state to state. Here are some of the common restrictions to be aware of:

Registration and Licensing

Each state has its own criteria for what qualifies as a classic, antique, historic, or vintage car. Some states require vehicles to be at least 20 years old, while others require them to be at least 25 or 30 years old. Some states have specific organizations that define what a classic car is, such as the Antique Automobile Club of America and the Classic Car Club of America. Additionally, some states offer special classic car license plates, which may have restrictions on their use.

Driving Restrictions

Many states prohibit the use of classic cars as primary vehicles for daily commuting. Some states have specific restrictions on the days of the week or mileage per year that classic cars can be driven. For example, some states only allow classic cars to be driven to and from car shows, club activities, and parades. Other states may have more lenient restrictions, allowing classic cars to be driven for "pleasure driving" or "occasional use."

Inspections

Some states require classic cars to undergo periodic safety and emissions inspections. The frequency of these inspections can vary, with some states requiring annual inspections while others may have less frequent requirements. However, there are also states that exempt classic cars from safety and emissions inspections altogether.

Storage

Some insurance companies and states may require classic cars to be stored in a locked, enclosed, and private structure, such as a residential garage or storage unit, when not in use.

Insurance

Classic cars typically require specialized insurance that reflects their uniqueness and value. This type of insurance often includes provisions for specialized repairs or restorations, as well as towing and spare parts coverage.

Taxes and Fees

When registering a classic car, there may be taxes and fees involved. Some states charge sales tax, while others may have additional excise taxes or registration fees. It's important to check with your local DMV or motor vehicle department to understand the specific taxes and fees applicable to classic car registration.

What are the insurance requirements for classic cars?

Classic car insurance is designed for rare or high-value cars and provides special coverage options and expert service for classic car owners. These options may not be available from a regular car insurance company. The most important feature of a classic car insurance policy is the agreed value coverage, where the insurance company and the owner agree on the value of the car based on an appraisal. This is different from typical cars, where the insurance company determines the value based on similar models and the cost to repair.

Age and Type of Vehicle

The definition of a classic car varies across different states and insurance companies. According to the Antique Automobile Club of America, a classic car is at least 25 years old, while the Classic Car Club of America considers a classic car to be produced between 1925 and 1948. Some states have more lenient requirements, with a minimum age of 20 years, while others require the vehicle to be at least 25 years old. Additionally, some insurance companies may have their own criteria, such as requiring the vehicle to have historical interest or a high value.

Driving Restrictions

Classic car insurance policies typically come with driving restrictions. Many companies only allow a certain limited mileage per month or year, and the vehicle cannot be used for daily commuting or as your primary car. Some policies may also restrict the use of the vehicle to specific days of the week or certain types of events, such as car shows or club activities.

Storage Requirements

Classic cars usually need to be stored securely when not in use. This typically means keeping the vehicle in a locked, enclosed, and private structure, such as a residential garage or storage unit.

Driving Record

To qualify for classic car insurance, you generally need to have a clean driving record. This typically means having no serious offences, such as reckless driving, repeat speeding violations, or driving under the influence. Additionally, some companies may require you to have a certain number of years of driving experience and be at least 25 years old.

Additional Considerations

When insuring a classic car, it's important to note that not all standard auto insurance coverages may be available. For example, some classic car insurance companies might not offer roadside assistance or extended medical payments coverage. It's essential to carefully review the policy details and compare quotes from multiple providers to find the best coverage for your needs.

What are the registration rules for classic cars?

The registration rules for classic cars vary depending on the state and country. Here are the general rules and some examples from specific states in the US:

General Rules

Before registering your classic car, it is important to research your state's guidelines as the definition of a classic, vintage, antique, or historic vehicle varies. States have the authority to choose the types of registrations they offer and the qualifications for each designation. Some states mandate that classic cars have special license plates and certain benefits, such as reduced registration fees, exemption from vehicle inspections, and distinctive registration plates. However, the use of these vehicles may be restricted, and they may not be allowed to be used as primary cars.

Specific State Examples

• Connecticut: Classic cars over 20 years old are eligible for special tax breaks, and the state offers \"Early American Vehicle\" or \"Classic Vehicle\" plates with minimal usage restrictions.
• Tennessee: Antique vehicles must be over 25 years old and can only be used for weekends, holidays, and special events. The registration fee is a one-time payment with no renewal required.
• Vermont: This state does not require titles for vehicles over 25 years old, making it attractive for registering older cars. However, the weather conditions and short driving season may be unfavorable for classic car owners.
• Texas: Texas offers four ways to register a classic car, including normal registration, classic registration (for cars 25 years or older), antique registration (with usage restrictions), and a special option for vehicles manufactured before 1921.
• Michigan: Historic vehicles must be over 25 years old and are subject to usage restrictions, but there are no limitations on the days of the week or mileage. August is an exception, as historic plates can be used for daily transportation during this month.
• Pennsylvania: This state offers two vintage vehicle designations: Antique plates for cars 25 years or older, and Classic plates for cars older than 15 years. The usage is restricted to "occasional use" of no more than one day per week.
• Florida: Antique, Street Rod, and Horseless Carriage designations are available for cars manufactured before 1945. Antique plates waive the initial registration fee but come with usage restrictions.

What are antique license plates?

Antique license plates are license plates that can be used for vehicles that are considered antiques or classics. The definition of what constitutes a classic or antique vehicle varies from state to state. While some states define antique vehicles as those that are at least 20 years old, others require them to be at least 25 years old. In Utah, vehicles of a model year 1973 or older may display original-issue license plates issued during the same year as the model year of the vehicle.

Antique license plates often come with restrictions on their use. Many states do not allow vehicles with antique license plates to be used as primary vehicles for daily commuting or errands. Some states also impose mileage limitations and require proof that the vehicle is being properly stored when not in use. Antique vehicles are also typically required to be registered with the relevant state agency, such as the Department of Motor Vehicles, and may need to meet specific emissions and safety requirements.

In addition to the standard registration requirements, some states offer special classic car license plates for antique vehicles. These plates may be personalized with alphanumeric characters and can be obtained by submitting the required application and paying a special plate fee.

Frequently asked questions