In California, when a vehicle is designated as non-operational, or “Non-OP,” it means that the vehicle is not intended for use on public roads. The Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) allows vehicle owners to file for a Planned Non-Operation (PNO) status, which must be done annually to avoid fees and penalties associated with registration and insurance.
If your vehicle is under Non-OP status, you are not legally required to maintain insurance on it since it is not being driven or parked on public roads. This exemption from insurance applies as long as the car is kept off-street and not in use. However, if you plan to drive the car even temporarily or if it is parked on public streets, you will need to obtain appropriate insurance coverage and re-register the vehicle for operational status.
Despite the lack of a requirement, some owners choose to keep comprehensive insurance on a non-operational vehicle to protect against risks such as theft, vandalism, or other types of damage while it is stored. It is advisable to inform your insurance company of the vehicle’s status so they can adjust the coverage accordingly.
Ensure you meet all DMV requirements for keeping the vehicle’s Non-OP status, as driving a non-operational car without proper registration and insurance could result in fines and other legal issues.
