Does Allstate Offer Temporary Car Insurance?

Last Updated on January 13, 2026

Allstate is a major auto insurer—but if you only need coverage for a few days or weeks, you might wonder whether Allstate sells “temporary car insurance.”

In most cases, the answer is no. Allstate generally writes standard auto policies (typically 6 or 12 months), not true one-day or one-week policies. The good news: there are practical ways to stay legal and protected for a short period without falling for sketchy “daily insurance” marketing.

Note: Auto insurance rules, refunds, and cancellation methods can vary by state and policy. Always confirm details with your insurer and your state’s DMV/insurance department if you’re unsure.

Key Takeaways

1. No True “One-Day” Policy: Allstate generally sells standard auto policies, not true daily or weekly coverage.
2. Canceling Can Mimic Short-Term Coverage: A common workaround is to start a regular policy and request cancellation for a specific end date.
3. Match The Fix to The Situation: Borrowing, renting, low mileage, and “between cars” scenarios often have different best options.
4. Avoid Gaps and Surprises: Lapses, lender requirements, and state-specific refund rules can turn “temporary” coverage into an expensive mistake.

Does Allstate Offer Temporary Car Insurance?

No—Allstate typically does not sell true temporary (one-day/one-week) auto policies. What people call “temporary car insurance” is usually just a standard policy used for a short time, or a different product that fits a short-term situation.

If you’re trying to understand what “temporary” coverage really means—and what to watch out for—start here: temporary and short-term car insurance.

If you’re comparing carriers, you’ll notice the same pattern at other big insurers: GEICO, State Farm, and Progressive generally don’t sell true day-by-day coverage either.

Why “One-Day” Auto Insurance Usually Isn’t A Real Product

In the U.S., most personal auto insurance is filed, priced, and administered around longer policy terms (often six months). That’s why “one-day” or “weekend-only” coverage is rarely offered by major insurers—and why many ads for “temporary car insurance” end up being one of these instead:

• A normal 6- or 12-month policy you can cancel early
• Non-owner insurance (liability coverage for drivers who don’t own the car)
• Rental-car coverage options (from the rental company, your existing policy, or sometimes a credit card)
• A limited product with strict exclusions (or a misleading offer that’s not what it sounds like)

If you specifically need “insurance for a day,” this explainer can help you avoid common traps: one-day auto insurance explained.

Short-Term Coverage Options That Usually Work

Use the table below to match your situation to the simplest, most common short-term solution.

Temporary Car Insurance Alternative: Buy A Policy, Then Cancel It

If you truly need coverage only for a short window (like a week or a month), the most common workaround is to start a standard policy and cancel it when you no longer need it.

Allstate may allow mid-term cancellation, but the details matter—refund timing, refund method (pro-rata vs. short-rate), and any minimum earned premium can vary. For Allstate-specific cancellation considerations, see: canceling an Allstate policy.

Here’s the cleanest way to do it:

1. Start coverage for the exact date you need. Many carriers can start policies quickly, but underwriting and state rules can affect timing.
2. Choose appropriate limits. Don’t buy bare minimum limits just to “check the box” if you’ll actually be driving—serious accidents can exceed minimums fast.
3. Request cancellation for a specific end date. Don’t assume it ends automatically—get confirmation in writing (email/letter) when possible.
4. Confirm your final billing/refund. If you prepaid, you may be owed unused premium depending on how your state and policy calculate earned premium.

Allstate policy changes and cancellations are often handled through an agent or by phone, not purely online, so plan ahead if you’re trying to end coverage on an exact date.

Alternatives That May Beat Buying-And-Canceling

Get Added as a Driver on the Owner’s Policy

If you’re borrowing a car, you might already be covered through the vehicle owner’s policy—especially for occasional use. If you’ll be driving the car regularly, the owner may need to add you to the policy. This overview can help you understand the nuances: auto insurance when borrowing a friend’s car.

Also learn how permissive use typically works—and why “permission” doesn’t always mean “covered for everything.”

Use Non-Owner Car Insurance If You Don’t Own A Vehicle

Non-owner insurance can be a strong fit if you don’t own a car but rent or borrow vehicles often. It typically focuses on liability coverage (damage/injuries you cause), and it can help you maintain continuous coverage. Here’s an Allstate-specific overview: Allstate non-owner car insurance.

Consider Pay-Per-Mile or Usage-Based Programs

If your “temporary” need is really “I don’t drive much,” usage-based programs may help. Allstate’s Drivewise is primarily a telematics program that rewards safer driving behaviors. In some states, Allstate also offers a pay-per-mile option (Milewise), which can be better aligned with low mileage than canceling and restarting coverage repeatedly.

Use Rental Company Coverage When You Rent

Rental companies commonly offer a collision damage waiver (or loss damage waiver) and may offer liability coverage add-ons. This can be a simple short-term solution if you don’t already have an auto policy—just make sure you understand what’s included, what’s excluded, and the deductible (if any).

Before You Cancel: Avoid Common Coverage Gaps

Short-term coverage gets risky when there’s a gap. Even a brief lapse can create legal problems if you drive, and it can raise your future premiums. Also remember: in many situations, car insurance follows the car (the vehicle’s policy is usually primary), which may change what you actually need to buy.

Final Word

Allstate generally doesn’t offer true one-day or weekly car insurance. For most drivers, the best short-term strategy is to use an existing policy (yours or the vehicle owner’s), buy non-owner coverage if you don’t own a car, use rental coverage for rentals, or start a standard policy and cancel it on the date you no longer need it.

If you want to confirm what Allstate can do in your state—and the fastest way to start or end coverage—use this guide: Contact Allstate.

FAQs on Allstate Temporary Car Insurance