You do not have to maintain your insurance for the vehicle as long as you surrender your license plate and registration. Conversely, if you choose to keep your tag and registration, you must maintain insurance on your vehicle. (If you do choose to surrender your tag and registration, with proof of insurance, you can re-register it when you return.)

Remember, you can click here to get a quote for auto insurance California (or any other state in the United States) to compare your rates.