Quick answer: A classic or antique car usually belongs on a classic car policy, not a regular auto policy. Classic car insurance is typically based on an agreed value, so if the car is totaled you’re paid the amount you and the insurer agreed on, not a depreciated used-car price. Because collector cars are driven less, these policies often cost less, too. The Imperial Agency, a local independent agency in Bala Cynwyd and Northeast Philadelphia since 1987, offers classic car insurance from Hagerty and Safeco and can register your antique or classic plates in the same visit. We speak English, Spanish, French, and Haitian Creole.
THE BIG DIFFERENCE: AGREED VALUE
A regular auto policy usually pays actual cash value: what a typical used car of that year is worth today, minus depreciation. For a restored 1969 Camaro or a well-kept 1990s classic, that number can be far below what the car is really worth.
With agreed value coverage, you and the insurance company set the car’s value when the policy starts. If the car is totaled or stolen, that agreed amount is what you’re paid. As your car’s value goes up, you can review it with us and adjust it.
WHAT CLASSIC CAR POLICIES USUALLY INCLUDE
Coverage varies by company and policy, but classic car insurance often offers:
– Agreed value coverage
– Lower premiums than a regular policy, because the car is driven less
– Coverage for spare parts and restoration work
– Specialty towing (such as flatbed) and roadside help
– Flexible mileage options
WHAT INSURANCE COMPANIES USUALLY EXPECT
Each company has its own rules, but most classic car policies require:
– The car is not your daily driver. You’ll usually need another vehicle insured for everyday use.
– The car is kept in a garage or other secure storage.
– Drivers have a good driving record.
– The car is used for shows, club events, parades, and pleasure drives.
We’ll walk you through each company’s requirements so there are no surprises if you ever have a claim.
HAGERTY OR SAFECO?
We offer both, and each has its strengths depending on your car, how you use it, and the coverage you want. As an independent agency, we can compare them side by side and help you choose, instead of selling you the only option one company offers.
YOUR PLATES AND YOUR POLICY GO TOGETHER
In Pennsylvania, antique or classic plates come with their own rules: the car can’t be used for daily driving, and occasional use is limited to no more than one day a week. Your classic car policy should match how you actually use the car. Because we’re also an authorized PennDOT agent, we can handle your plates and your insurance together, in one place.
WHY USE A LOCAL AGENT
– You can sit down with us face to face and ask questions.
– We speak English, Spanish, French, and Haitian Creole.
– We help you set the right agreed value for your car.
– We help with payments and billing questions.
– If you have a claim, we help you through it.
Stop in, call, or request a classic car insurance quote online. Have your car’s year, make, model, VIN, and an idea of its value ready. Photos of the car help, too. We also write regular auto, home, renters, and business insurance through more than 15 companies, including Progressive, GEICO, Travelers, Liberty Mutual, National General, and Foremost.
COMMON QUESTIONS
Does my car need to be really old to get classic car insurance?
Not always. Companies set their own age and condition rules, and some cover newer collectible or exotic cars. Ask us what your car qualifies for.
Can I drive my classic to work?
Generally no. Classic car policies, and Pennsylvania’s antique and classic plates, are not meant for daily driving or commuting.
What if my car is still being restored?
Many classic car policies can cover a car during restoration, including parts. Tell us where your project stands and we’ll find the right fit.
VISIT US
We speak English, Spanish, French, and Haitian Creole.
Bala Cynwyd: 193 W. City Avenue, Bala Cynwyd, PA 19004 (54th and City Ave) – (610) 617-8850
Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri 9:00-5:00 | Thu 9:00-6:00 | Sat 10:00-3:00
Philadelphia (Mayfair): 6444 Sackett St, Mayfair Shopping Center, Philadelphia, PA 19149 – (215) 624-5220
Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri 8:30-5:00 | Thu 8:30-6:00 | Sat 8:30-4:15
Licensed in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware, and Maryland. Serving Philadelphia, Lower Merion, Narberth, Wynnefield, Overbrook, Manayunk, Roxborough, and Montgomery and Delaware Counties. This article is general information as of October 2026; coverage and eligibility vary by insurance company and policy. Call us to talk through your car and your coverage.
