When you’ve worked hard on restoring your classic car, quality insurance is a must have. But before you call up the first insurance company you find for a quote, there are a few things you need to be aware of. Here are some facts about specialized classic car coverage that will help you determine if your car qualifies for classic or collector car insurance:

1. Vehicle Type:  “Classic Car” is a broad term and it means different things to different people. Insurance companies have very specific definitions for what can be insured as a “classic car.” When speaking to an agent, make sure that it’s clear you want classic car coverage, and not a traditional policy, to ensure that your car qualifies.

2. Age Restrictions:  Your car might be a limited edition, but that doesn’t mean it will automatically qualify for specialized insurance. The majority of states require a vehicle to be at least 15 years old before it’s considered a classic. Some states, such as Massachusetts, require a car to be as old as 25 years. Different insurance companies will also have different age restrictions so make sure you shop around if you don’t get the answer you want from a company.

3. Driver Limitations:  Most insurance companies will have an age restriction on the principle driver of a classic car. Many times the driver has to be at least 25 years old. Insurance companies may also have strict eligibility restrictions based on the driving history of the declared driver.

4. Storage Requirements:  To qualify for classic car insurance, your vehicle can’t be parked just anywhere. Insurance companies often require that your vehicle be stored in a secure, designated garage. Don’t have a garage? Some companies will suggest a preferred storage facility for your vehicle. Parking on the street or in your driveway may negate your classic car insurance policy, and leave you holding the bag for any damage claims.

5. Limited Usage:  Is your classic a daily driver? If you drive your classic every day, it may not qualify for specialized insurance. Generally, for classic car coverage, the insured vehicle must not be your primary mode of transportation. In fact, the car must be used on a very limited basis. It’s likely you’ll be restricted to 5,000 miles or less per year, sometimes just enough to get to car shows and back.

Classic car insurance can be much cheaper than traditional car insurance. However, the qualifying restrictions can be very limiting. Carefully analyze your vehicle and driving preferences before choosing a policy for your classic car. A great way to get more advice is to connect with other classic car owners, and that’s where the Pomona Swap Meet & Classic Car Show comes in! With tens of thousands of classic car enthusiasts and several insurance companies, including Hagerty (Road 12, Space 2), on the lot at every event, you can talk to tons of people about their coverage and their experiences with different insurers.