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Have you ever wondered how many miles the average person drives per year? Or how your driving habits compare to others in your state, age group, or gender?

Every year, the US. Department of Transportation’s Federal Highway Administration releases a report analyzing motor vehicle registrations, number of driver licenses, average car mileage, and more. We combed through the latest report and found that:

• There are now almost 229 million Americans who have licenses, and they collectively drove over 3.2 trillion miles in 2019. That’s enough to drive around the Earth over 128 million times! 
• The overall number of miles driven by Americans has increased every year since 2011 and is more than double the total miles driven in 1980. This makes sense, as there are more licensed drivers and registered vehicles than ever before.
• The average driver drives around 13,500 miles per year. That’s over 1,000 miles per month!
• Americans drive more than twice as many miles in urban areas than in rural areas.
• Men tend to drive more than women across all age groups, averaging around 6,000 more miles per year.
• Younger and older individuals (16-19 year olds and 65+) tend to drive about half as many miles as typical working-age individuals.

Average miles driven per year by state

The states with the highest total miles driven per year are easy to guess, as the top 5 (California, Texas, Florida, Georgia, and New York) all fall in the top 8 largest states by population.

What’s more interesting is looking at how many miles the average person drives per year in each state, which we found by dividing the total miles driven by the number of driver’s license holders in each state:

As you can see, the averages vary a lot, with drivers in the District of Columbia only averaging a little over 7,000 miles per year and those in Wyoming driving almost 3.5 times more at just over 24,000 miles. Below, we’ll dig into some of the potential reasons for this huge difference.

States where people drive the most

When we look at the average miles driven per year, the following states takeing the top spots:

1. Wyoming
2. Mississippi
3. New Mexico
4. Missouri
5. Georgia
6. Indiana
7. Minnesota
8. Alabama
9. Oklahoma
10. North Dakota 

Unlike the states with the highest total miles, which are largely driven by population, these states likely boast the highest average miles because they tend to be more rural and have fewer alternate means of transportation. In fact, Wyoming — the state where people drive the most — is 99.8% rural, with a rural population density of just two people per square mile.

States where people drive the least

On the other end of the spectrum, the states who drive the fewest miles on average are:

1. District of Columbia
2. Rhode Island
3. New York
4. Washington
5. Alaska
6. Pennsylvania
7. New Hampshire
8. Hawaii
9. Connecticut
10. Oregon

Unsurprisingly, five of these states are home to cities with the best public transportation — Oregon (Portland), Washington (Seattle), Pennsylvania (Philadelphia), District of Columbia (Washington, D.C.), and New York (New York City). Gas prices might also play a role, as seven of these states fall into the top 20 states with the highest gas prices. Interestingly, while Alaska is by far the largest state in terms of square miles, its drivers boast the fifth-lowest average car mileage in the country.

Average car mileage per year by age group

The Federal Highway Administration also broke down the average annual miles per driver by age group and found that:

• 16-19 year olds on average drive the fewest miles each year out of all the age groups, with those 65+ following close behind.
• The age groups that best encompass typical working ages (20-34 and 35-54) tend to drive the most. In fact, these groups drive around twice as many miles as high schoolers and senior citizens.

These statistics shouldn’t be surprising, as the average American drives 16 miles to work each way — which comes out to around 8,384 miles each year just for their commute. Since most 16-19 year olds are still in school and Americans tend to retire when they’re around 64, the oldest and youngest age groups often drive much less than typical working-age individuals.

Bottom line

While it can be fun to see how you compare to other drivers in your state, age group, and gender, did you know many car insurance companies use these factors to determine how much you’ll pay? 

At Metromile, we think your rate should be based on your actual driving habits — which feels fairer and can actually save you money. In fact, by switching to pay per mile insurance, our customers save 47%* on average compared to what they were paying their previous auto insurer. Get a quote to see how much you could save today.

* Average annual car insurance savings by new customers surveyed who saved with Metromile in 2018.

What if you could lower your car insurance rate by using a device that monitors your driving behavior? Given the latest technology with telematics devices, you can. Telematics devices help monitor your position, speed, braking behavior, and so much more. Usage-based insurance companies like Metromile use telematics devices in some states to gather accurate data to ensure you get the best rate possible. 

According to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners website, “The use of telematics helps insurers more accurately estimate accident damages and reduce fraud by enabling them to analyze the driving data (such as hard braking, speed, and time) during an accident.” There are various types of telematics devices that blend the use of technology and innovation to create real-world data that benefits users. Here are five telematics devices you should know about.

1. Black box telematics device

One of the original telematics devices available is often referred to as a black box. This black box connects with your OBD-II or CAN-BUS port. The way it works is that in the black box there is a SIM card as well as a modem that all work together to communicate important info over a cellular network about your driving behavior. Black box telematics devices will have GPS, a port, SIM card, interface for the engine as well as an accelerometer. You’re able to mount your black box in your car and transmit data in an easy and effective way. 

Having a black box may be able to help recover your vehicle faster in case of theft and can provide accurate tracking options for mileage-based insurance. 

2. Smartphone-based telematics device 

Nearly everyone these days has a smartphone, which makes data tracking easier than ever. Instead of a black box, you could use a smartphone-based telematics device that doesn’t require any installation upfront. 

Using telematics devices that are mobile-first makes it easy on the driver and sends accurate data to the insurer to create rates based on the way you drive. 

3. Bluetooth-powered telematics device

Aside from a black box or smartphone-based app, telematics devices can also include self-powered data transfer through Bluetooth. These types of devices can be mounted in your car on the dashboard and use Bluetooth to collect and submit information about your driving behavior to your insurer. At times you may have connectivity issues with Bluetooth — but in general, these devices send relevant information to servers which can then be used for usage-based insurance programs. 

4. OBD-II Port telematics device 

Another type of telematics device is one that connects to the On-Board Diagnostics II port, which is often referred to as OBD-II for short. This port makes it possible to connect to the car’s computer to help transmit important data about your driving. 

Since 1996, the OBD-II port has been a requirement for all vehicles manufactured in the U.S. Telematics devices that work with the OBD-II port are effective at transmitting your data through cellular networks as part of usage-based insurance. It’s also an easy way to get started and has a low barrier with technology as you simply use the port. You can typically find the OBD-II port under the steering wheel near the dashboard. 

Metromile utilizes OBD-II technology to track speed and motion and relays that information through cellular data.

5. OEM telematics device 

Out of all the telematics devices there is one that is less common but is becoming more popular. It’s built into your car and is referred to as OEM, which stands for original equipment manufacturers. This telematics device uses OEM embedded hardware to transmit driver data. 

Because it uses built-in car sensors, it eliminates the need for any installation. However, telematics devices like this have a lack of regularity and standards making them less popular. 

As technology continues to improve, this type of telematics device which works with built-in materials will be able to help drivers get the most up-to-date data and monitor driving behavior. While it can offer precise data, it also comes at a cost to the manufacturer of the car making some of the other telematics devices more popular. 

The bottom line 

Telematics devices have changed the game for usage-based insurance. Using the power of technology, it’s possible to share relevant driving data to help you get better and more accurate rates if you’re a safe driver. Instead of relying on outdated models for insurance premiums, it’s possible to assess risk and your behavior using telematics devices. As you can see, they come in different forms, each with its pros and cons as it relates to accuracy, installation, and accessibility. 

If you want to experience the power of telematics devices yourself, you can try the Ride Along program with Metromile and snag a free quote to check out your potential savings. 

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Melanie Lockert is a freelance writer, podcast host of the Mental Health and Wealth show, and author of Dear Debt. She’s a cat mom to two jazzy cats, Miles and Thelonious, an amateur boxer, music lover, and needs coffee to function.

Whether you’re planning your new car purchase in advance or you’re forced into a car purchase because your old car has died, you want to do your due diligence and know how to score the best deal on a new set of wheels. That leads to one question: When is the best time to buy a car? In this guide, we’ll share the best time to buy a car and the best month to buy a car to get maximum savings. Given that car prices have surged during the pandemic, you’ll want any savings you can get.

Best time to buy a car throughout the year

When it comes to the best time to buy a car, there are some times throughout the year that are more advantageous for consumers than others. Why? Because many car dealerships and their salespeople have quotas to meet. They want to get rid of their inventory and meet their goals. 

The best time to buy a car throughout the year includes:

• The end of the month. Head into the dealership the last few days of the month to grab a great deal. You might get a generous deal if the salesperson wants to meet their quota. You can check out the price online ahead of time and arm yourself with information before heading in for negotiations. 
• The end of the year. Toward the end of the year, people are busy celebrating the holidays. Car dealerships are ready to ditch their inventory ahead of the new year. That’s why going into a car dealership between December 26 and December 31 could get you the best savings possible. You may get up to 10% in savings or more. If you want to celebrate New Year’s Eve with a new car, go in on the 31st for likely the best day/date to buy a car. 
• The best month to buy a car is in December. If you’re looking to zero in on a specific month, December is the best month to buy a car. As noted previously, you get the year-end deals but also Christmas and holiday incentives. 

The best day to buy a car is Monday. Have you ever had the Monday blues? Well, that can translate to business and sales too. Car dealerships and salespeople looking to kickstart their week may offer heftier discounts on this day more than others, especially considering many buyers come in on the weekend instead.

Best time to buy a car: holiday edition

People often think of spending the holidays with family, friends, or on vacation somewhere. But did you know some holidays are also the best time to buy a car? It’s true, but some holidays are better than others. If you’re ready to buy a new car, here are the holidays that matter most. 

• Black Friday — the day after Thanksgiving aka Black Friday is basically a consumer holiday at this point and could help you slash costs on a car. 

• President’s Day — this three-day weekend may score you some savings on a car. 
• Memorial Day — this holiday jumpstarts the summer season and can be a good time for deals. 

Labor Day — the end of summer hits and dealers may be ready to let go of some of their inventory before Q4 hits.

When it makes sense to buy a car?

If you’re wondering when is the best time to buy a car, there are other benchmarks to consider as well. For example, if the car has been discontinued recently or there’s been an announcement that the vehicle will no longer be manufactured. 

Of course, you want to look into the reasons why the car will no longer be in production, but it could be one of the best times to buy a car. 

Another good time to buy is at the close of a model year. Car years don’t necessarily match up with calendar years and can have new editions in different seasons. Many new models are released as summer is coming to an end around August or September. So if you’re looking for the best month to buy a car, it could be then. 

Lastly, another great time to buy is if there is a redesign in the works. This means that the current car’s design is getting traded in for a refresh and getting redesigned. Grabbing the current design before it retires may lead to some savings.

Best time to buy a car that’s used

Due to the pandemic cars have been in high demand. On top of that, there’s a chip shortage so there’s less available in inventory. These factors have led used cars to be the hot commodity of the moment, with some used car prices up 30% or higher. In this climate, you want to know when the best time to buy a car is so you can not pay such a high premium. 

Typically, the fall months between October and December can get you the best savings on used vehicles. As noted above, many new models get released at the beginning of summer, so many drivers opt for trading in their used vehicles in order to get something new. 

This influx of new inventory could mean good news for you. It’s also the final quarter of the year and businesses want to close the year strong and get rid of inventory to make space for the coming year.

The bottom line

Buying a new car can be stressful and exciting at the same time. In this economy, it can be quite costly too which is why knowing when to buy a car is a key aspect of getting the most for your money. Remember, the end of the month, the end of a quarter, and the end of the year are your best bets for car savings and incentives. 

If you’re looking for even more ways to save, switching your car insurance might be the right choice. Using pay-per-mile car insurance, it’s possible to pay a low base rate and a small amount for the miles you drive. Wondering how much you could save? Get a free quote with Metromile and try it out for yourself. 

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Melanie Lockert is a freelance writer, podcast host of the Mental Health and Wealth show, and author of Dear Debt. She’s a cat mom to two jazzy cats, Miles and Thelonious, an amateur boxer, music lover, and needs coffee to function.

If you moved to New Jersey from out-of-state, you’ll have to update your car registration (and get used to someone pumping gas for you, as self-service is illegal). The same is true if you purchase a new car, though in many cases the dealership can handle that part for you. But if you bought from a private party, you’ll need to update your records as well. Regardless of whether you’re new to the Garden State or just scored a new set of wheels, you’ll need to get started with New Jersey car registration. Here’s how to register a car in New Jersey.

Why is New Jersey car registration required?

Each state law requires you to register your car in the state you live in with the local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or transportation authority. In fact, it’s illegal to drive without car registration or expired car registration. 

When you register your vehicle with the state, you’re creating proof of ownership for your vehicle in case you get pulled over and get the dreaded “license and registration, please” from an officer. 

When you register your car, you get a license plate and a sticker that is used to help identify your car and the registration illustrates that you’re the rightful owner of the car.

Who must get New Jersey car registration?

There are generally two scenarios where you must get a car registration: 

1. You purchase a vehicle in New Jersey and are a resident. 
2. You move to New Jersey and after becoming a resident need to update your records. 

Typically if you purchase a vehicle at a dealership, you don’t have to worry about that. But if you’re buying used through a third party, you may need to handle the process yourself. 

When you move to New Jersey, you have 60 days to update to New Jersey car registration (unless your current registration expires sooner in which case you should register before the expiration). However, during a Public Health Emergency (hello, COVID), you have 120 days.

What do I need to register my car in New Jersey?

Before getting started with a car registration, you might be curious and wonder “What do I need to register my car in New Jersey?”. What you need to register a car may vary depending on if you simply bought a car or if you’re moving from somewhere else. 

To get started you’ll need:

• Your vehicle title
• Your driver’s license and other forms of ID (New Jersey has 6 point ID system) 
• New Jersey proof of insurance (either with your insurance card or through the insurer name and policy number) 

If you’ve leased your vehicle or someone else is signing documents you’ll need:

• Power of attorney if someone is signing documents on your behalf 
• Dealer reassignment documentation, if required
• Finance statement and lien holder information 

If you moved to New Jersey and need to update your car registration, you’ll need:

• 6 points of ID 
• A transfer permit (which needs to be purchased for $10)
• To give up your old out-of-state driver’s license to get a New Jersey one

How to register a car in New Jersey?

How to register a car in the Garden State will be a bit different depending on if you bought a vehicle or if you’re a new resident of the state. 

If you just bought a car:

1. Make an appointment with the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (NJ MVC).

2. Bring all the documents listed above. 

3. Fill out Form BA-49, which is the Vehicle Registration Application.

4. Pay title, registration, and sales tax fees. Registration fees and sales tax may vary, title fees can range between $60 to $110. 

If you just moved to the state:

1. Make an appointment with the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (NJ MVC).

2. Buy a transfer permit for $10.

3. Bring all the documents listed above. 

4. Fill out Form BA-49, which is the Vehicle Registration Application and Form OS/SS-UTA which is the Universal Title Application. 

5. Pay title and registration fees. 

You’ll have 60 days from the time of your move to update your car registration, though that timeframe has doubled to 120 days due to the pandemic. Note, you’ll have less time if your current registration is expiring sooner.

How much does car registration cost in New Jersey?

Registration costs in New Jersey depend on the weight and model of your vehicle. Here’s a breakdown of costs according to the NJ MVC website: 

• The rate is $35.50 for a vehicle that is under 2,700 pounds and is from 1970 or older.
• The rate is $44.50 for a vehicle that is between 2,700 and 3,800 pounds and is from 1970 or older. 
• The rate is $65.50 for a vehicle that is over 3,800 pounds and is from 1970 or older. 
• The rate is $38.50 for a vehicle that is under 2,700 pounds and is from 1971-1979.
• The rate is $49.50 for a vehicle that is between 2,700 and 3,800 pounds and is from 1971-1979. 
• The rate is $72.50 for a vehicle that is over 3,800 pounds and is from 1971-1979. 
• The rate is $46.50 for a vehicle that is under 3,500 pounds and is older than two years. 
• The rate is $59 for a vehicle that is under 3,500 pounds and is within two years old. 
• The rate is $71.50 for a vehicle that is over 3,500 pounds and is older than two years old. 
• The rate is $84 for a vehicle that is over 3,500 pounds and is within two years old. 
• The rate is $71.50 for a vehicle that is a commuter van and is older than two years old. 
• The rate is $84 for a vehicle that is a commuter van and is within two years old.

Is proof of insurance required to register a car in New Jersey?

In order to register a car in New Jersey, you need to have proof of insurance. You’ll need to bring your New Jersey car insurance when registering your car. 

According to the NJ MVC website, all vehicles registered in New Jersey must have three different types of insurance coverage including:

• Liability insurance, which covers the cost of damages you cause to others in an auto accident
• Personal Injury Protection (PIP), covers the cost of medical expenses in case of injury from an auto accident 
• Uninsured Motorist Coverage covers costs for your damages or injuries if you’re in an auto accident caused by someone who is uninsured 

If you’re looking at your car insurance options, take a look to see if pay-per-mile insurance could be beneficial. Using pay-per-mile insurance, you pay a small base rate each month and pay several cents for each mile you drive. If you’re a low-mileage driver, this can be the way to go to lower your car insurance costs.

The bottom line

If you’ve recently moved to New Jersey or purchased a vehicle there as a resident, it’s time to update your records and get your New Jersey car registration. You want to avoid a lapsed registration and any trouble. While you’re updating your records, you can also check out other car insurance options like Metromile, which was created with the driver in mind. Get a free quote to see your potential savings. 

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Melanie Lockert is a freelance writer, podcast host of the Mental Health and Wealth show, and author of Dear Debt. She’s a cat mom to two jazzy cats, Miles and Thelonious, an amateur boxer, music lover, and needs coffee to function.

When it comes to driving, a car with an automatic transmission is much more popular these days than driving stick. According to CarMax, a low of 2.5% of shoppers actually want a manual transmission car to drive. That doesn’t mean that knowing how to drive a stick shift won’t come in handy or isn’t a useful skill. If you rent a car abroad or need to drive a friend’s car in an emergency or simply want more freedom when you drive, knowing how to drive a stick shift will open up opportunities for you. But how do you get started with driving stick? Read on to learn the steps to take to get started.

What is stick shift?

You might have heard the term “stick shift” but what is stick shift, exactly? A stick shift is the term often used to refer to a vehicle with manual or standard transmission. The stick shift in the vehicle allows drivers to manually change gears in order to accelerate the car. The stick shift is located in the middle of the car and is hooked up to the transmission. 

Each gear on a stick shift is designed to withstand certain speeds and as you accelerate, you’ll need to transition to the next gear. Here are the driving stick gears and their respective speeds. 

• 1st gear = 0 to 10 miles per hour
• 2nd gear = 3 to 25 miles per hour
• 3rd gear = 15 to 45 miles per hour
• 4th gear = 30 to 65 miles per hour
• 5th gear = 45 miles per hour or over

Stick shift vs. automatic transmission

Driving stick is different than driving a car with an automatic transmission and requires some more active participation by the driver. Using an automatic transmission, the car shifts gears on its own automatically (hence the name automatic). 

A car with manual transmission has a notable addition when compared to automatic transmission vehicles — the clutch. Aside from the gas and brake pedal, manual transmission vehicles have a clutch pedal, which is located next to the brake pedal on the left hand side. When you use the clutch pedal, you can shift gears. 

Instead of gears shifting automatically, driving stick requires you to change gears manually (hence the name manual). This can be the tough part of learning how to drive a stick shift because it forces you to engage the clutch and seamlessly transition gears. If you end up using the clutch pedal too quickly, your car stalls out. On the other hand, if you aren’t fast enough with the clutch it can cause wear and tear on the car.

How to drive a stick shift step by step?

The best way to learn how to drive a stick shift is by learning from an experienced stick shift driver in a safe space such as an empty parking lot. But you also want to have a clear idea of the steps and what you need to do beforehand. Here’s how to drive a stick shift.

Step 1: Get in the car and review the pedals and shifter

For starters, you want to be familiar with what you’re working with. When you get in a manual transmission car, before driving stick get acquainted with the pedals and shifter. Look at the shift pattern that shows the gears as well as the pedals. 

On the left you’ll see the clutch pedal, which is the key for stick shift driving. The center will include the brake and the right side has the gas pedal, also known as the accelerator.

Step 2: Make sure your car is in neutral and push down the clutch pedal

Before you begin, make sure your shifter is in the neutral position and with your left foot push down the clutch pedal.

Step 3: Press your right foot on the brake

Take your right foot and press down on the brake. In your vehicle that is in the center between your gas pedal on the right and clutch on the left.

Step 4: Put the key into the ignition and turn to start

This part should feel familiar! Place your key into the ignition and turn. Remember, you need to be in neutral and your left foot should be on the clutch and right foot on the brake. If there are issues, make sure the parking brake isn’t activated.

Step 5: Move the gearshift to the first gear

Using your left foot, push down on the clutch and move the gearshift to first gear, which is typically located in the upper left.

Step 6: Lift your right foot off the brake pedal

To get started, lift your right foot off the brake. You’ll likely start moving so ease into the next step carefully.

Step 7: Ease off the clutch

Carefully and slowly ease off the clutch by not putting so much pressure with your left foot on the clutch.

Step 8: Transition to accelerating by putting right foot on the gas pedal

As you ease off the clutch slowly, begin to transition to accelerating forward by placing your right foot down on the gas pedal. Be careful with this maneuver as it can be a delicate transition. Start gently with the gas.

Step 9: OMG, you’re driving stick!

Having your left foot off the clutch and your right foot on the gas pedal, you’re now driving stick while in first gear. Congrats!

Step 10: Add speed and transition to second gear

As you add speed, you’ll want to transition into second gear by removing your right foot from the gas pedal and placing your left foot on the clutch. Put the gearshift into second gear, release your left foot from the clutch, while putting your right foot back onto the accelerator.

Step 11: Repeat and continue

To continue to drive, you’ll repeat this process and continue.  As you increase your speed (but not too much, too fast!), you’ll need to go to the next gear by having the clutch down, moving the gear to the next shift, and ease off the clutch and press on the gas pedal.

Step 12: Shift to neutral and brake to stop

In order to stop driving stick, you need to place your left foot on the clutch and move the gearshift into the neutral position. As you do that, lift your foot from the clutch and then brake to stop the moving vehicle. To park, you need to activate the emergency brake system as manual transmissions don’t have an official “park” option.

The bottom line

If you’re wondering how to drive a stick shift, hopefully you have a better idea now. Obviously, getting real-life practice with an experienced driver is best but this is good research to get started. Driving stick can be scary at first, but as you get used to it your muscle memory will take over and it’ll get easier over time. 

Grab a free quote from Metromile to see how much you could save on car insurance today!

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Melanie Lockert is a freelance writer, podcast host of the Mental Health and Wealth show, and author of Dear Debt. She’s a cat mom to two jazzy cats, Miles and Thelonious, an amateur boxer, music lover, and needs coffee to function

If you’re thinking of moving to Arizona or considering a car purchase there, there’s one main thing you need to do — register your car. Registering your car in the state you live in is an important process to keep you in good legal standing while driving on the road. Learn more about how to register a car in Arizona and what you should know to get started.

Why is Arizona car registration required?

Registering a car in Arizona isn’t just something you should do — it’s the law. According to Arizona law, you have 15 days to apply for title and registration when you buy a car in the state of Arizona. 

If you recently moved to Arizona, once you establish residency you’ll need to pursue Arizona car registration. 

By registering a car in Arizona, you can show proof of ownership. Think of getting pulled over — the first thing they ask for are your license and registration. Registration also covers fees related to driving your car as well.

Who needs to register a car in Arizona?

There are two situations when you need to register a car in Arizona. 

1. You purchase a new or new-to-you car
2. You moved to the state of Arizona from somewhere else

When you buy a new car, registration may be taken care of by the dealership. If you buy a used car from a private party, you may need to apply for a title transfer. 

According to the Arizona Department of Transportation (AZDOT), “eTitle Transfer allows qualified sellers and buyers to transfer vehicle ownership electronically. Utilizing a secure online system, customers can complete the process without visiting an MVD office.”

Another option is for the buyer to contact MVD Office or an Authorized Third Party provider and provide a signed off title as well as title application. 

If you don’t complete the Arizona car registration process within 15 days, you may be hit with a title transfer penalty fee. The late registration fee is $8 and another $4 for every month after that it is late.

How to register a car in Arizona?

If you just bought a new car in Arizona, remember you have 15 days to complete the registration process. 

If you bought a car and need to transfer your title, to complete Arizona car registration:

• You’ll need to fill out an application for a title or title transfer 
• Obtain a notarized and signed vehicle title
• If needed and applicable, a lien release
• Title and registration fees
• Other documents as required 

If you moved to Arizona from out-of-state, the process is a bit different when it comes to Arizona car registration. Here are the next steps to take and some things you’ll need as well:

• Fill out and submit ​​the Title and Registration Application
• If you live in Phoenix or Tucson, you’ll need to complete the emission compliance form
• Your out-of-state title and registration (if it’s missing, you may be subject to a vehicle inspection)
• Your license plates from your former state of residence
• If needed, a lien clearance 
• Title and registration fees
• If you have a leased vehicle, you’ll need to present a Power of Attorney from the lessor 

Registering a car in Arizona will be required after you establish residency in the state. You’re considered a resident if you live and work in Arizona, stay in Arizona for seven months or longer, or have a child in an Arizona school. If you’re waiting on documentation to get started with Arizona car registration, you can apply for a 90-day registration for $15 while waiting for all of your materials. 

If you need to renew your Arizona car registration, you can do so online. According to the AZDOT website, “​​All registration documents and license plate tabs are mailed and no longer printed at MVD or Authorized Third Party offices. When you renew, your record is updated instantly and your receipt is your proof of registration.”

Renewing online is the easiest way for renewing car registration, but you may also call  1.888.713.3031 or visit an Authorized Third Party office to get started. You typically can register your vehicle for one, two, or five years. 

Also, it’s important to note that if an emissions test isn’t required you may be able to renew your registration six months before the expiration date. If you do need to have an emissions test, you can renew 90 days before the expiration date.

How much does it cost to register a car in Arizona?

If you’re registering a car in Arizona, you’ll have to pay various fees.

The registration fees you pay can vary by your car. You may pay $4.50, $8, or $9 as part of the registration fees. On top of that, you’ll pay a vehicle license tax (VLT) that is based on a formula that requires you to pay 60% of the manufacturer’s base retail price. 

From that number, your VLT is calculated as $2.80 per $100 in value for new vehicles and $2.89 per $100 in value for used vehicles. Every year your vehicle is registered, that number is reduced by 16.25%. 

The Service Arizona website shares an example of a new vehicle that costs $25,000.
In the first year, the vehicle’s assessed value would be $15,000 ($25,000 cost X 60% = $15,000).
Based on their formula, the VLT would be $2.80 (new car rate) X 150 ($15,000/ $100 in value = 150) = $420 for the first year.
In the second year, that $15,000 ($25,000 X 60% = $15,000) would be reduced by 16.25%.
So you’d take $15,000 x 16.25% = $2,437.5.
Then take the original amount of $15,000 – $2,437.5 = $12,562.5.
After that, you’d divide that by 100 to get $125.625. Your car would now be used so you’d multiply $2.89 x 125.625= $363.06.

So how much you pay for Arizona car registration can vary based on your vehicle as well as the amount of years registered in Arizona.

Is proof of insurance required to register a car in Arizona?

In the state of Arizona you have 30 days to submit proof of insurance after registering your vehicle. There is a mandatory insurance requirement that states the drivers must have the following liability coverage:

• $25,000 for bodily injury for a single person
• $50,000 for bodily injury for two people or more
• $15,000 for any property damage 

If you don’t get car insurance in Arizona, you can be subject to fees and license suspension. If you need car insurance or want to find the best rates possible, check out pay-per-mile car insurance. Through pay-per-mile insurance, you can pay a lower amount for car insurance as you’re only responsible for paying for the miles you drive and a base rate. Metromile customers saved an average of $741* per year by making the switch.

The bottom line

Whether you bought a new car in Arizona or moved to the home of the Grand Canyon, you need to keep your records up-to-date and get Arizona car registration settled. Taking the steps listed above can help you get started so that you’re in good legal standing while on the road. 

If you want to check your car insurance rates to make sure you’re getting the best deal, get a free quote from Metromile and try pay-per-mile auto insurance.

Pay-per-mile insurance is usage-based auto insurance where your rate is based on how much you drive. You’ll pay a low base rate and then a few cents for each mile you drive.

—

Melanie Lockert is a freelance writer, podcast host of the Mental Health and Wealth show, and author of Dear Debt. She’s a cat mom to two jazzy cats, Miles and Thelonious, an amateur boxer, music lover, and needs coffee to function.

*Average annual car insurance savings by new customers surveyed who saved with Metromile in 2018.

Metromile is proud to welcome Gina Minick on board as our new VP, Telematics on the Product team. Gina is an auto insurance veteran, starting her career at Progressive, building multiple iterations of telematics products at Allstate from the ground up, and most recently leading the telematics product team at Arity.

“Telematics is the future of auto insurance,” says Gina. “The data is so powerful. We know it’s the most predictive data that we can use to assess risk. Having telematics at the forefront of our insurance product at Metromile is so exciting.”

Why join Metromile? Simply put: the opportunity to have a direct impact on the customer. “In the past, I was helping insurance companies design their telematics programs for their customers. Here, I get to create products that live into Metromile’s unique pay-per-mile offering.”

Metromile’s telematics data delivers business value—helping us price risk more accurately, shortening the claims cycle, and extending the customer lifecycle. At the same time, it delivers customer value—more fair prices, of course, but also personalized safe-driving insights, vehicle diagnostic codes, even the recovery of stolen vehicles.

This alignment was a big draw for Gina, and so was the opportunity to do some good for consumers.

“There’s definitely a fairness and equitability conversation going on in insurance right now. With our technology and insights, we’re already able to move away from traditional risk proxies, some of which can be unfair to consumers. What’s more fair than looking at how and how much you drive?”

An interest in telematics is not just professional for Gina, but personal, too. “I’ve been testing telematics data collection in my cars or phones since about 2005. My family knows when we get in the car the #1 priority is to stay safe. My oldest daughter not only corrects my driving but also never hesitates to yell out her window if she sees someone texting and driving. Safe driving has just become a part of our every day, so leading our telematics team is somewhat of a natural fit.”

And for Gina, as for so many drivers right now, working from home makes a per-mile policy an easy choice. “I don’t even drive that much—I can’t imagine having insurance that doesn’t reward me for that,” she says.

We asked Gina what the future holds for telematics in the insurance space. She says, “It’s awesome to see that Metromile has emerged with innovation in a space that’s been around for over a hundred years by creating a compelling and affordable pay-per-mile product that resonates with more and more drivers. I can’t wait to continue to push more innovation with telematics.”

Welcome, Gina. We’re thrilled to have your telematics expertise in-house, and excited for you to translate that to further savings for our customers.

Are you new to the state of Pennsylvania or have you recently purchased a car in the state? If so, you need to update your records and get Pennsylvania car registration. Having your car registration up-to-date can help you stay in good standing while on the road, so you can avoid any issues if you get pulled over. To help make the process easier, we’ve broken down how to register a car in Pennsylvania and what you should know.

Why is Pennsylvania car registration required?

When you get pulled over for whatever reason, you typically get asked for your license, registration, and insurance. These documents prove that you can legally drive, that you’re the lawful owner of the vehicle, and that you’re insured if anything should happen. 

Registering a car helps create a link between you as the driver and your vehicle with the state you live in. It’s also a way for states to collect taxes and fees from drivers.

Who needs to register a car in Pennsylvania?

If you purchased a vehicle in Pennsylvania, you need to make sure registration is taken care of. If you bought a new car from a dealer, typically this is taken care of for you. But if not or if you bought a used vehicle from a private party, you may need to handle Pennsylvania car registration yourself. 

Additionally, if you recently moved to Pennsylvania you’ll need to update your car registration. Lastly, if you’re already a resident of Pennsylvania and you’ve let your car registration lapse, you want to renew it so that you can avoid any trouble on the road.

How to register a car in Pennsylvania?

If you’re wondering what do I need to register my car in Pennsylvania, it can depend on if you’re registering a new car/used car or if you moved from out-of-state. 

If you’re registering a car you bought, you’ll need:

• Proof of ownership in the form of Manufacturer Certificate of Origin (MCO) or Manufacture Statement of Origin (MSO) or Pennsylvania Certificate of Title 
• Application for Certificate of Title (Form MV-1 — not available online)
• Driver’s license
• Proof of insurance
• New cars may need to be certified by the California Air Resources Board (CARB)

If you’re buying a used car, you’ll need:

• Pennsylvania Certificate of Titles
• Vehicle Sales and Use Tax Return/Application for Registration (Form MV-4ST — not available online)
• Driver’s license
• Proof of insurance 

If you moved to Pennsylvania from out-of-state, you need the following:

• Application for Certificate of Title for a Pennsylvania title and surrender your out-of-state title
• Proof of Pennsylvania auto insurance
• Tracing or verification of the VIN
• Applicable fees and taxes
• Power of Attorney, if leasing a vehicle 

You must obtain a Pennsylvania driver’s license within 60 days of residency and must complete title and registration within 20 days of establishing residency. You must also complete a safety inspection within 10 days of your registration date and may need an emissions inspection as well.

How much does it cost to register a car in Pennsylvania?

The state of Pennsylvania charges $39 per year in registration fees for passenger vehicles. You may be able to renew your Pennsylvania car registration for one or two years using ​​Form MV-70S.

Is proof of insurance required to register a car in Pennsylvania?

If you need to get started with registration you probably are curious and want to know “What do I need to register my car in Pennsylvania?” One thing you definitely need to register your car in Pennsylvania is proof of insurance. 

The state of Pennsylvania requires all drivers to have minimum liability coverage on their registered vehicle. You must have a minimum of: 

• $15,000 to cover injury or death for a single person
• $30,000 to cover injury or death for more than one person 
• $5,000 to cover property damage on someone else’s property

If you need to get car insurance, consider pay-per-mile car insurance — especially if you don’t drive that much. Pay-per-mile insurance is usage-based and only makes you pay for the miles you drive plus a monthly base rate. 

At Metromile, you can get affordable coverage with a low base rate and pay a few cents for every mile. Customers have saved an average of $741* per year by switching over from traditional car insurance. Using the app and the Ride Along™ feature, you can get started and see how much you could save. 

The bottom line

If you bought a new set of wheels in the state of PA or recently decided to call the state home, it’s time to make sure you’re up-to-date on your Pennsylvania car registration. If your car registration is going to expire soon, make sure to get it taken care of sooner rather than later. Learning how to register a car in Pennsylvania just got easier with the steps above. 

On top of registering your car, you can look into affordable car insurance options such as pay-per-mile coverage which can save you money.

 Get a free quote with Metromile to see your prospective rates. 

—

Melanie Lockert is a freelance writer, podcast host of the Mental Health and Wealth show, and author of Dear Debt. She’s a cat mom to two jazzy cats, Miles and Thelonious, an amateur boxer, music lover, and needs coffee to function.

*Average annual car insurance savings by new customers surveyed who saved with Metromile in 2018.

If you’re in the market for a new vehicle, you may have your eye on an electric vehicle (EV). Maybe you want to reduce your environmental impact or simply save money on gas — or you just like the look of the new Tesla and you’re sold. But then you hear that nagging voice, “Are electric cars worth it?” Before deciding on going fully electric or not, you want to understand the benefits of electric cars. Read on to review electric cars pros and cons to help make your decision easier.

Benefits of electric cars

f you’re wondering are electric cars worth it, it’s key to understand all the benefits of electric cars. Owning an electric vehicle has its perks, so let’s review.

You can save a lot of money

Have you ever lamented about how high the cost of gas is while at the pump? Imagine those days are gone. Instead of filling up your gas tank each week and feeling like it’s taking a good chunk of your discretionary income, you could save a lot of money by going electric. When you have an electric car, you no longer need any gas to fuel your car. 

Instead, you need electricity which is much more affordable. According to Energy.gov, you could reduce costs by 50% by going electric when compared to gas. You can even use their nifty eGallon tool to compare the costs of driving with gas versus electricity. For example, in California, it shows that the cost of gasoline is $3.73 per gallon compared to $1.86 for electricity. 

Being able to cut your costs in half is remarkable for your budget and can reduce your overall spending, freeing up money to put elsewhere — like savings, debt, or even a fun hobby.

Electricity is renewable

The thing about gas is that it’s a finite resource as it uses oil to create gas. Oil is a natural resource. Given everything going on with climate change, it’s important to take a harder look at natural resources and the way they’re being used. 

That’s why electric vehicles are an attractive alternative. Unlike gas which can technically run out, electricity can be renewable. It’s possible to get electricity in renewable ways such as through wind or water powers or even solar energy. 

Renewable energy is on the rise as the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) noted that usage reached record highs as of 2020, making it 12% of energy consumption. According to the EIA website, “The electric power sector accounted for about 60% of total U.S. renewable energy consumption in 2020, and about 20% of total U.S. electricity generation was from renewable energy sources.”

You can lower greenhouse gas emissions

One of the major benefits of electric cars is the fact that you can reduce your environmental impact. Regular vehicles that use gas greatly contribute to greenhouse gas emissions. In fact, according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), as of 2019 transportation makes up 29% of greenhouse gas emissions, effectively the largest contributor next to electricity (25%), industry (23%), commercial and residential (13%), and agriculture (10%). 

Electric cars don’t have an exhaust pipe to create greenhouse gas emissions. That’s not to say there is no environmental impact. 

If you use coal or natural gas to power electricity, it can leave carbon pollution. If you use one of the more natural ways listed above, you don’t contribute to carbon pollution. 

The EPA does state on their website, “Even accounting for these electricity emissions, research shows that an EV is typically responsible for lower levels of greenhouse gases (GHGs) than an average new gasoline car. To the extent that more renewable energy sources like wind and solar are used to generate electricity, the total GHGs associated with EVs could be even lower.”
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, the national averages for annual emissions per vehicle is 11,435 pounds of CO2 equivalent for a gasoline vehicle whereas for all-electric vehicles it is 3,774 pounds of CO2 equivalent which represents 3x less CO2 than gasoline vehicles.

You can take advantage of tax credits

Another major perk of owning an electric car is the tax credits you could qualify for. According to the U.S. Department of Energy website, you could get up to $7,500 in tax credits. Your car must be all-electric or plug-in hybrid and made in 2010 or later to qualify. 

Tax credits are more effective than deductions at lowering the amount you pay in taxes as they’re dollar-for-dollar. Meaning, if you owed $10,000 you could effectively lower your tax bill up to a maximum of $7,500 and only pay $2,500. 

It’s important to note that the tax credit is only available up to the limit. So if your tax bill is only $2,000, you can receive the credit for up to $2,000 and the rest won’t help your tax situation any further. Deductions lower your taxable income which can lower how much you pay in taxes but is not dollar-for-dollar.

Less maintenance is required

When you have a regular car, you need to fill up the gas tank regularly and also change your oil at regular intervals. All of that can add to the cost and time it requires to maintain the car. When it comes to considering electric cars pros and cons, this is a huge benefit. On top of that, there may be fewer repairs needed as well.

Better performance

Electric cars tend to be much quieter than gas vehicles. That noise reduction can improve performance and quality of life and lead to a smooth ride on the road. Electric vehicles tend to be more energy efficient in stop-and-go traffic as well and electric motors actually react faster than mechanical engines. All of these factors combined make for a better performance and experience as both a driver and passenger.

Downsides of electric cars

Now that you know the benefits of electric cars, it’s time to consider the cons as well. Here are the most common downsides of electric cars.

Electric cars can be pricey

Though you can benefit from the cost savings on gas, there’s no doubt that electric cars are more expensive than standard cars to buy. In some cases, thousands of dollars more. 

But Business Insider recently discovered that there is a new group of EVs priced at $35,000. Additionally, Axios noted that electric vehicles are more expensive to buy but not to own. Due to lower maintenance costs it may all even out. But just be aware that you could pay a higher sticker price.

Charging can be a lengthy process

When you have an electric vehicle, you can’t just go to the pump and get on your way. You do have to charge your vehicle for it to work properly. Depending on your make, model, and year, your EV could take between 4 and 20 hours or more to charge. Having a charging station in your home can certainly help, but you need to make sure you budget for that time to adequately charge your vehicle.

You can’t go as far or as long as gas cars

A major downside to owning an electric vehicle is that you can’t go as far or as long as you might want. Electric vehicles can typically go between 60-100 miles when fully charged, but many modern EVs may get up to 250 to 350 miles per charge. Compare that to up to a maximum of 400 miles on a single gas tank (depending on car and efficiency), it’s a notable difference. Going on a road trip is less ideal in this scenario with an electric car.

Finding a station can be tough

If you don’t have a charging station at home, you’re at the mercy of public charging stations. While some cities may have plentiful options, not every place does and it can all depend. The lack of stations in your area could present a challenge if you’re in a bind and need to go somewhere. Be sure to do research about charging stations in your neighborhood and what options are available.

Car insurance premiums may increase

Another downside to consider is that car insurance premiums may be higher with an electric vehicle. The website ValuePenguin found that electric vehicle insurance premiums were 23% higher than regular cars. Part of that is due to the fact that electric cars can be more expensive. So if something were to happen to you, it may cost more to repair.

Electric cars pros and cons

Are electric cars worth it?

If you’ve been thinking of buying a new car it’s natural to wonder, are electric cars worth it? The benefits of electric cars are generous and pretty clear cut but you also want to know about electric cars cons as well. It may cost more to buy and insure your car, but you’ll likely make up some of that with reduced costs on fuel.

If you are thinking about purchasing an electric vehicle, chances are you don’t drive much or are actively looking to drive less. Pay-per-mile auto insurance can be a good fit for you and help you lower car insurance costs.

You can see if pay-per-mile car insurance is right for you with Metromile. Download the Metromile app and take a Ride Along™ trial for free. For about two weeks, you’ll drive like you typically do (you should keep your existing insurance policy to keep covered during the trial). After, you’ll see how much you could save if you switched to a usage-based insurance policy.

Drivers can also save up to an extra 15% off their initial Metromile auto insurance quote if they show they’re a safe driver during their Ride Along™ in select states.

—

Melanie Lockert is a freelance writer, podcast host of the Mental Health and Wealth show, and author of Dear Debt. She’s a cat mom to two jazzy cats, Miles and Thelonious, an amateur boxer, music lover, and needs coffee to function.

If you’re one of the millions of people who began working from home last year due to Covid-19, you may be wondering whether you can deduct work-related expenses from your income taxes. Maybe you outfitted your living room with a fancy desk and comfy chair, upgraded your wifi, bought better lighting for all your Zoom calls, and watched your utility bill rise — can you write-off those expenses and, even better, part of your home?

While you probably won’t be able to write off many work-related expenses if you’re a salaried employee, you may be able to take advantage of a few deductions if you’re self-employed. Here’s everything you need to know:

Can I write-off work-related expenses from my taxes if I worked from home?

Unfortunately, if you accumulate expenses such as office furniture and other tools for your work as a salaried employee, you probably won’t be able to write them off. In the past, you could deduct unreimbursed expenses that exceeded 2% of your adjusted gross income, but the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 paused these deductions until the end of 2025.

The good news is if you’re an employee in Alabama, Arkansas, California, Hawaii, Minnesota, New York, or Pennsylvania, you may be able to deduct home office expenses on your state return.

Additionally, if you’re self-employed or an independent contractor, you can still deduct “ordinary and necessary” expenses related to your business. (That’s a fancy way of saying expenses that are helpful and make sense for your profession, such as internet service, office supplies, office furniture, marketing costs, business travel, and work-related meals.)

Can I claim the home office tax deduction if I worked from home?

The home office deduction lets you reduce your tax obligation by claiming part of your home as a business expense.

If you have a home office and use it for your job as a salaried employee, you sadly can’t take advantage of this deduction. The IRS explicitly states that “employees who receive a paycheck or a W-2 exclusively from an employer are not eligible for the deduction, even if they are currently working from home.”

However, if you run your own business, have a side hustle, or do contract or gig work, you may be able to claim the home office tax deduction if your home is your principal place of business and your home office is regularly and exclusively used for work.

This means if you work in your spare bedroom during the week and let your friends crash in that room whenever they’re in town, for example, you wouldn’t be able to deduct that room. Similarly, if you work and eat at your dining room table, you can’t deduct that area, either.

There are two ways you can calculate your home office deduction (if you’re eligible for it):

• Simplified method: You can deduct $5 per square foot of your home used for business purposes (up to 300 square feet, or $1,500).

Regular method: You can deduct the percent of your home used for business purposes from qualified home-related expenses, such as utilities, property taxes, rent, insurance, maintenance, and mortgage interest. This method may allow you to claim a larger deduction than with the simplified method, but it’s more complicated to calculate, so make sure you keep good records and do the math correctly (or hire an accountant).

What work expenses can I write off if I work from home?

In short, if you’re a salaried employee, you can’t claim a deduction for unreimbursed employee expenses unless you have certain qualified educator expenses or fall into one of these categories specified by the IRS:

• Armed Forces reservists
• Qualified performing artists
• Fee-basis state or local government officials
• Employees with impairment-related work expenses

If you fall into one of those categories, you can deduct ordinary and necessary unreimbursed employee expenses incurred during the tax year. Qualified teachers can also deduct up to $250 for unreimbursed work expenses.

.

While it may feel unfair that most salaried employees can’t take advantage of these deductions, keep in mind that self-employed individuals also usually have to pay self-employment tax on their net earnings in addition to their regular income tax.

Did COVID-19 change how I should file my 2020 taxes if I worked from home?

No. While many people worked from home in 2020, the government hasn’t passed any special federal tax breaks or work from home tax deductions.

The bottom line

While you may not be able to take many work from home tax deductions if your employer made you work from home during the pandemic, you may be able to save money in other ways.

If you’re continuing to work from home and don’t need to commute to the office for the foreseeable future, for example, switching to pay per mile car insurance—such as through Metromile—can be a quick and easy way to cut costs. According to a 2018 survey of new Metromile customers who saved, drivers can save $741 a year without sacrificing their coverage or experience. Get a free quote to estimate how much you could save today.