How To Replace A Vehicle

May 18, 2026By GEICO Team3 min readEditorial Guidelines
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Key Takeaways


You Can Swap Your Old and New Vehicle in One Transaction if Coverage Dates Match
If you already have your new vehicle and want coverage to start the same day you remove the old one, select "Yes" when asked if you're replacing an existing vehicle. Different start and end dates require two separate transactions.

Don't Remove Your Old Vehicle Until You've Handled Your License Plates
Most states require you to surrender or transfer your plates before removing a vehicle from your policy. You can add your new vehicle first by selecting "No" to the replacement question, then remove the old one once plate requirements are met.

Ready to add a vehicle or get a quote? Sign into your account here to get started. If you've already started and need help, read on!

When adding a new vehicle to your policy, we’ll ask if it replaces an existing vehicle on your policy.

Depending on your situation, you may want to answer this question differently than you might expect. Let’s find out which scenario applies to you:

What if I already have my new vehicle (or I’m getting the vehicle today)?

Great news! It may be possible to remove your current/old vehicle and add your new vehicle all at once if you already have your vehicle and are replacing one on your policy. This option is only available if you plan to end coverage for one vehicle on the same day you start coverage for the replacement vehicle. In this case, select an option that starts with “Yes” and choose the vehicle you plan to remove.

If you would like coverage for your new vehicle to begin before or after the removal of your old/current vehicle, then you will need to complete two separate transactions. Most states require you to surrender or transfer your license plates in order to remove coverage for a vehicle. You can, however, continue adding your new vehicle by selecting “No” when asked if you're replacing an existing vehicle. When you’re ready to remove your old vehicle, go to the Remove Vehicle page and select it.

What if I just want a quote (for example, I’m still shopping)?

To find our how much replacing your current vehicle will cost:

  • Select the vehicle you plan to replace.
  • Next, depending on your state, you may be asked if the plates for your current vehicle have been surrendered, transferred, or if the vehicle you’re removing has other insurance.
  • If you answer “No” to this question, you will be asked if you want to proceed. If you just want a quote, you can select “Yes” here. But please remember, when you are ready to apply your changes and replace a vehicle on your policy, don’t remove the old/current vehicle from your policy until you have fully complied with your state’s requirements such as surrendering or transferring license plates. You can learn more about these requirements here.

Check out other useful tips about adding vehicles here.

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