How long must a leased auto be contracted to qualify for listing in a personal auto policy?

A leased automobile must be contracted for at least 6 months in order to be eligible for coverage under a personal auto policy. This time frame establishes a commitment to the lease, which is significant because personal auto policies typically provide coverage for vehicles that are owned or leased for an extended period.

The 6-month requirement ensures that the leasing arrangement is not temporary or short-term, which could introduce a higher risk for insurers if the vehicle is frequently changed or returned. A shorter lease period may indicate a less stable arrangement that does not align with the nature of personal auto insurance, which is designed for vehicles that the insured intends to use for a longer duration. Thus, for a leased vehicle to be recognized under a personal auto policy, the lease must meet this minimum time frame, providing clarity and protection for both the policyholder and the insurer regarding the vehicle's use.

In contrast, longer or shorter durations are not adequate because they either exceed the typical needs for longer-term coverage or fall into a category that could be more transient and less predictable.