People are often confused about who is covered under a standard auto insurance policy. There are typically only one or two names listed in the "Named Insured" section of an auto insurance policy, but that doesn't mean that those are the only people who are covered under the policy. As a general rule, auto insurance coverage actually follows the vehicle, not the driver. So if your car is involved in an accident, the car typically receives the full coverage provided by the auto insurance policy, regardless of who is driving.

Auto insurance policies normally provide coverage for your car if it is driven by any of the following people:

• You, the "named insured"
• Your spouse, as long as he or she lives in your household
• Other family members who are related to you by blood, marriage, or adoption
• A foster child who lives in your household
• A child who is away at college but still considers the address listed on your policy as a permanent address
• Anyone to whom you lend your car

Your insurance company may require that certain conditions be met in order for other drivers to be covered under your policy. For example, anyone who drives your car must typically be a licensed driver. Additionally, most insurance companies require that anyone driving your car be doing so with your permission. This doesn't mean that you have to give explicit permission each time someone takes your car for a spin, but the person driving must have a reasonable belief that he or she is entitled to do so.

Because these conditions can vary, it is important to check your policy carefully and make sure you understand any limitations that might apply before you allow others to drive your car. Learn more about car insurance in our Learning Center.