When Does Auto Insurance Coverage Begin? 
It begins on the policy 's effective date which is listed on the declarations page . It can often be dated in the future but can not be backdated . Usually the auto policy begins once the insurance company has all material facts , a signed application , the initial payment , and any other documents required for binding . Since the effective time of all policies is 12:01 AM , many will extend coverage at no charge for a portion of one day while making the official effective date the next day as 12:01 AM . 