Deployment does not mean you need to keep paying full car insurance premiums. Understanding your options for storage coverage, SCRA protections, and reinstatement rights can save you hundreds of dollars per deployment and ensure you are covered properly when you return.
Covers
Fire, theft, flood, hail, vandalism, and animal strikes while in storage
Does Not Cover
Collision, liability (vehicle cannot be driven)
Best for: Vehicles stored in a garage or secured facility for 3+ months
Vehicle must not be driven at all during the coverage period
Covers
Nothing
Does Not Cover
Any loss
Best for: Vehicle stored at a military installation with base protection programs
Requires proof of secure storage and re-application to reinstate coverage
Covers
All standard coverages but at reduced rates for anticipated low mileage
Does Not Cover
Standard exclusions apply
Best for: Vehicles used occasionally by a family member or kept for short leaves
Must accurately estimate annual mileage - penalties apply for underreporting
Covers
Full liability, collision, comprehensive, and other elected coverages
Does Not Cover
Standard exclusions apply
Best for: When a family member will continue driving the vehicle regularly
No special requirements; same as standard civilian coverage
The Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) provides specific legal protections for active duty military members dealing with financial and legal obligations during deployment.
The SCRA caps interest rates on insurance premiums that were taken out on credit before active duty at 6%. If you are paying a premium in installments at a higher rate, you can request a reduction to 6% for the duration of active service.
Insurers cannot cancel your policy due solely to your deployment. If you pre-paid a premium and your coverage period extends beyond your return, most states require the insurer to provide a refund for unused coverage at your request.
Many states require insurers to reinstate your coverage at the same rates that were in effect before deployment, without new underwriting, for a period after your return. Check your state insurance commissioner's website for specific rules.
The SCRA does not automatically provide car insurance coverage in foreign countries. If you drive a US vehicle overseas (OCONUS), you will likely need a separate international or host-nation insurance policy. Contact your insurer specifically about overseas assignments.
The SCRA protects service members from default judgments in civil proceedings while deployed. If an insurance dispute arises while you are deployed, you can request a stay of proceedings until your return.
Contact your insurer before driving your vehicle after deployment. Reinstating coverage typically takes 24-48 hours. USAA and AFI have expedited reinstatement programs for returning service members. If your vehicle was in storage for over 12 months, have it inspected before driving and verify it is roadworthy before reinstating full coverage.
Coverage options and SCRA protections may vary by state and insurer. Consult your insurer directly and contact your state insurance commissioner's office for state-specific SCRA regulations. Updated 27 March 2026.