Florida law requires insurance companies to give policyholders a minimum 30-day notice before canceling a policy due to non-renewal or non-payment. This effectively acts as a grace period, giving you time to renew your policy or switch to a new insurer without an immediate lapse in coverage.
How to check if your insurer offers a grace period
To find out if your insurer offers a grace period for car insurance payments, start by reviewing your policy documents. You can look for sections related to payment terms and cancellations. Most insurers outline whether a grace period is provided and how long it lasts.
If it’s unclear, contact your insurance company directly. You can also check the insurer’s website under FAQs. It’s important to confirm the grace period so you know how much time you have to make a late payment without risking a lapse in coverage.
Does every insurance company in Florida offer a grace period?
Yes, every insurance company in Florida is required by law to offer a grace period for missed premium payments. Florida state laws mandate a minimum 30-day grace period after the initial premium payment, during which your policy remains active even if you’re late on a payment. This provides policyholders with extra time to catch up on payments without immediately losing coverage.
While your payment may accrue a small amount of interest, not more than 8% annually, during the grace period, the insurer cannot cancel your policy until the entire grace period has ended.
What happens if your auto policy lapses in Florida?
You’re required to maintain continuous insurance coverage for the entire period your vehicle is registered in Florida. Failure to maintain a car insurance policy could result in your driver’s license and license plate being suspended for up to three years.
You may also need to pay a reinstatement fee of up to $500. Florida does not offer temporary or hardship licenses for suspensions related to insurance violations.
Final thoughts
It’s important to keep your car insurance active in Florida to avoid fines or license suspension. While insurers offer a grace period, don’t rely on it – pay your insurance premiums on time.
If you’re unsure how your insurance company handles late payments, check your policy documents or call your insurer to confirm to avoid a lapse in coverage.
Sources
Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles. “Florida Insurance Requirements.” Accessed July 2025.
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