# What is policy period?

> The policy period is the span of time during which an insurance policy is scheduled to provide coverage.

Glossary date: March 9, 2026.

## How it works

Auto policies commonly last six or twelve months. Coverage starts and ends at the times stated in the contract, subject to payment and cancellation rules.

## Example

A policy runs from March 1 through August 31. A loss on September 1 belongs outside that policy period unless renewal coverage began.

## Why it matters

Even a short gap between policy periods can leave you uninsured and affect later pricing.

## What to check on your policy

Confirm the start and end date, exact effective time, renewal offer, and payment due date.

Coverage, definitions, limits, and legal requirements vary by policy and state. Your declarations page and policy forms control your coverage.

## Related terms

- [Insurance lapse](https://locations.goautoinsurance.com/car-insurance-glossary/insurance-lapse.md)
- [Continuous insurance coverage](https://locations.goautoinsurance.com/car-insurance-glossary/continuous-insurance-coverage.md)
- [Insurance grace period](https://locations.goautoinsurance.com/car-insurance-glossary/insurance-grace-period.md)

- [Car insurance guide](https://locations.goautoinsurance.com/car-insurance-guide.md)
- [Complete glossary](https://locations.goautoinsurance.com/car-insurance-glossary.md)