What First Acceptance Insurance Is

First Acceptance Insurance is a car insurance company that specializes in policies for drivers who have had accidents, traffic violations, or lapses in coverage — people whom standard insurers often decline or charge much higher rates. The company operates in multiple states and focuses on providing coverage to drivers considered higher-risk by the insurance industry.

First Acceptance does not require a perfect driving record to get a quote or buy a policy. Instead, the company prices policies based on individual risk factors, which means two drivers with similar violations may pay different rates depending on their age, location, vehicle type, and other circumstances. The company offers both liability coverage (which pays for damage you cause to others) and optional comprehensive and collision coverage (which covers damage to your own vehicle).

Unlike some insurers that require you to call an agent, First Acceptance lets you get quotes online, though you can also speak with an agent by phone if you prefer. Policies typically begin within days of purchase, and you can manage your account online or by phone.

Key Takeaways

  • First Acceptance insures drivers with accidents, violations, and coverage lapses that standard insurers often reject or charge heavily for.
  • The company quotes and sells policies online and by phone, with coverage starting within a few days of purchase.
  • Rates depend on your driving history, age, location, vehicle, and the type and amount of coverage you choose.
  • You can add comprehensive and collision coverage to your policy, though liability coverage is the legal minimum in most states.
  • Discounts may be available for things like paying in full, bundling home and auto policies, or completing a defensive driving course.

How Rates Are Set and What Affects Your Quote

First Acceptance calculates your rate using information from your driving record, claims history, and personal details. A recent accident or violation will raise your rate compared to a clean record, but the company does not automatically deny coverage to drivers with these issues — that is the main difference between First Acceptance and standard insurers.

Your age, gender, and location also matter. Younger drivers and male drivers typically pay more, as do drivers in urban areas or states with higher claim costs. The vehicle you drive affects the rate too: a sports car or a vehicle with a high theft rate will cost more to insure than a sedan or minivan. How much coverage you choose — your deductible, liability limits, and whether you add comprehensive or collision — directly changes your monthly or six-month premium.

First Acceptance also looks at whether you have had a lapse in coverage. A gap of more than a few weeks between policies can increase your rate, because insurers view continuous coverage as a sign of responsibility. If you are shopping for your first policy or returning after a long gap, be prepared for a higher rate than someone with an unbroken history.

Coverage Types and What Each One Pays For

Liability coverage is mandatory in every state and is the foundation of any auto policy. It pays for injuries and property damage you cause to other people or their vehicles in an accident you are found responsible for. Most states set a minimum liability limit — often $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident for property damage — but you can buy higher limits if you want more protection.

Comprehensive coverage pays for damage to your own vehicle from events other than collisions: theft, vandalism, weather, animal strikes, and falling objects. It does not cover accidents with other vehicles or objects. Comprehensive is optional unless your vehicle is financed or leased, in which case your lender may require it.

Collision coverage pays for damage to your vehicle when you hit another car, object, or structure, or if another vehicle hits you. Like comprehensive, it is optional unless your vehicle is financed. Both comprehensive and collision require you to pay a deductible — usually $500 or $1,000 — before the insurance pays the rest.

Uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage protects you if you are hit by a driver who has no insurance or insufficient coverage. This coverage is required in some states and optional in others. First Acceptance offers it as an add-on to your policy.

How to Get a Quote and What Information You Will Need

To get a quote from First Acceptance, you will need basic personal information: your name, date of birth, address, and driver's license number. You will also need details about your vehicle — the year, make, model, and vehicle identification number (VIN) — and information about your driving history, including any accidents or violations from the past three to five years.

If you are currently insured elsewhere, have your current policy handy so you can provide your coverage limits and deductibles. If you are not currently insured, you will need to decide what coverage limits and deductibles you want before you get a quote, because these choices affect the price. First Acceptance's website has a tool to help you understand what coverage amounts make sense for your situation.

You can get a quote online without talking to anyone, and the process usually takes 10 to 15 minutes. The quote is typically valid for 30 to 60 days, depending on your state. If you want to buy the policy, you can do so online when ready, or you can call an agent to discuss your options and complete the purchase over the phone.

When Your Policy Starts and How to Make Changes

Once you purchase a policy from First Acceptance, coverage typically begins on the date you choose during the purchase process — often the same day or the next business day. You will receive a policy document and proof of insurance (a card you can carry in your vehicle) by email or mail. Some states require you to have proof of insurance in your car, so read and print the email version when ready if you need coverage to start right away.

After your policy is active, you can make changes online through your account or by calling customer service. Common changes include updating your address, adding or removing a driver, changing your vehicle, or adjusting your coverage limits or deductible. Some changes take effect when ready; others may require a new quote and a restart of your policy period.

If you need to cancel your policy, you can do so online or by phone. Depending on your state and the reason for cancellation, you may receive a refund of unused premium. First Acceptance does not charge a cancellation fee in most states, but check your policy or call to confirm the rules in your state.

Discounts and Ways to Lower Your Premium

First Acceptance offers several discounts that can reduce your monthly or six-month premium. A paid-in-full discount applies if you pay your entire policy premium upfront rather than in monthly installments. A multi-policy discount is available if you bundle your auto policy with a homeowners or renters policy through First Acceptance or a partner company.

Some states allow a defensive driving course discount if you complete an approved defensive driving or safe driving course. The discount amount and the course requirements vary by state. A few states also offer discounts for low annual mileage or for having safety features in your vehicle, though these are less common with First Acceptance than with standard insurers.

The best way to find out what discounts you may be may have access to to is to ask during the quote process or to review your policy documents after purchase. Discounts are applied automatically in most cases, but it is worth confirming that all available discounts are reflected in your rate.

What to Do If You Have an Accident or Need to File a Claim

If you are in an accident, the first step is to make sure everyone is safe and call emergency services if anyone is injured. Then, if it is safe to do so, exchange information with the other driver: name, phone number, address, driver's license number, vehicle details, and insurance information. Take photos of the damage and the accident scene if you can.

Next, report the accident to First Acceptance as soon as possible — ideally within 24 to 48 hours. You can file a claim online through your account, by calling the claims phone number on your insurance card, or by using the First Acceptance mobile app if available in your state. Have your policy number and the other driver's information ready when you call.

A claims adjuster will be assigned to your case and will contact you to gather more details, review photos, and arrange an inspection of your vehicle if needed. The adjuster will determine what your policy covers and what the repair or replacement cost is. Once the claim is approved, First Acceptance will either pay you directly or pay the repair shop, depending on how you choose to handle it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get First Acceptance insurance if I have been denied by other companies?

Yes. First Acceptance specializes in insuring drivers that standard insurers decline or charge very high rates for. Having been denied elsewhere does not disqualify you, though your rate will still reflect your driving history and risk factors. Get a quote to see what First Acceptance can offer.

What states does First Acceptance operate in?

First Acceptance operates in multiple states but not all 50. The company's service area changes over time. Check the First Acceptance website or call their customer service line to confirm whether they offer policies in your state. If they do not, they can sometimes refer you to a partner company.

How long does it take to get proof of insurance after I buy a policy?

You receive proof of insurance by email when ready after you purchase your policy online. Print it right away if you need to show proof to a police officer or your lender. A physical insurance card will arrive by mail within one to two weeks.

Can I change my coverage limits or deductible after my policy starts?

Yes. You can update your coverage limits or deductible online or by phone at any time. Changes may take effect when ready or at your next billing date, depending on what you change and your state's rules. Call First Acceptance to confirm the timing before you make the change.

What happens if I do not pay my premium on time?

If you miss a payment, First Acceptance will typically send you a notice and give you a grace period — usually 10 days — to pay before your policy lapses. If your policy lapses, you lose coverage when ready, and you will need to pay the missed premium plus any reinstatement fees to restore it. Avoid lapses by setting up automatic payments.