How to Qualify for Classic Car Insurance

Chances are you already know about the perks of classic car insurance for your classic, antique, or collector car. Compared to everyday auto policies, classic car insurance makes it easier to handle claims, find the right parts, and work with experts who understand your car – not to mention, it’s often more affordable. If you qualify, classic car insurance is almost always the smarter choice.

Which leads to the obvious next question: do I qualify for classic car insurance? The answer is “yes” more often than you might expect, but a few factors around your car, how you store it, your driving record, and how you plan to us it can affect eligibility. Good news: getting an answer is quick and easy. Just reach out to us to speak to a Collector Specialist M-F 8:30am to 8pm ET or Sat 9am to 5:30pm ET at 800-360-2277.

Want a quick head start? Here’s what matters most:

Driver Requirements for Classic Car Insurance

First, let’s talk about you. Ideally, you’ll have a clean driving record. A minor ticket or two isn’t always a dealbreaker, but a good record helps. If you have kids or family under 25 who want to drive the car, bring that up when setting up your policy — younger drivers often need special approvals. Keep in mind, this policy is for your classic — not your daily driver. Requirements are different, and coverage is designed for pleasure use, not daily commuting or running errands.

What Cars Qualify for Classic Car Insurance?

Here’s a general rule of thumb:

  • 20 years old or older is a good starting point.
  • Newer vehicles with recognized collector value may also qualify.

Not every older car is considered a classic automatically — and not every newer collector car is off-limits. If you’re unsure, just ask.

Modified vehicle? No problem. Just disclose any upgrades during the quoting process to make sure they’re properly covered and won’t affect your eligibility.

How You Can Use Your Classic Car Insurance Coverage

Classic Car Insurance is built for pleasure use – not daily commuting. You’re covered for things like:

  • Weekend cruises
  • Car shows
  • Parades
  • Club events and tours

Most policies include a mileage limit per year. But with American Collectors Insurance’s Freedom Tier, eligible drivers can enjoy up to 7,500 miles annually in addition to occasional pleasure use.

Some key points to keep in mind:

  • No daily driving
  • No rideshare use (Uber, Lyft, etc.)
  • No hauling (this would be related to pickup trucks)
  • No backup vehicle usage (if your regular use vehicle breaks down)
  • No racing or drivers-education events

This policy is for fun, memories, and showing off – not for Monday morning traffic jams.

Storage Requirements for Classic Car Insurance

Where you park your classic car matters too. Unlike a daily-driver policy, you’ll need secure storage for your vehicle when it’s not in use.

That usually means:

  • A private garage
  • A secured carport
  • An outbuilding or barn on your property
  • A locked commercial storage unit

Street parking or uncovered storage won’t qualify in most cases — but if you’re unsure whether your setup counts, talk to your agent. We’ve seen a lot of creative solutions!

Condition Requirements for Classic Car Insurance

Classic car insurance expects your vehicle to be in good, presentable condition. It doesn’t have to be perfect or “showroom new,” but it should:

  • Be free from major rust or corrosion (one exception is Patina as your desired style)
  • Be free of significant dents, body damage, or missing parts
  • Reflect pride of ownership

Small cosmetic flaws? Not a big deal. Major structural issues? Probably a problem for eligibility.

What’s Not Covered by Classic Car Insurance?

A few key reminders:

  • Racing and track events are not covered. (if you do track days, ask about special coverage options)
  • Off-roading is a no-go.
  • Commercial use isn’t allowed, even if it’s tempting to take on a few wedding rentals on the weekends.

Is Classic Car Insurance Right for You?

If you own a classic or collector vehicle in good shape, drive it responsibly for fun, and store it safely, you’re probably a strong candidate for classic car insurance.

Even if you have a few concerns — about your car’s age, your driving record, or your storage situation — it’s worth talking to an agent before assuming a traditional policy is your only option.

The benefits of classic car insurance — better repairs, smarter claims, agreed value coverage, lower premiums — are worth the extra effort. At the end of the day, you want to protect your pride and joy the right way. That’s our goal too.

Talk to an agent today or get an instant quote to find out if your classic qualifies!