Windshield damage is one of the most common auto insurance claims in the United States. While many drivers have comprehensive coverage that helps cover glass repairs or replacements, not every policy automatically includes zero-deductible glass coverage—where you don’t pay anything out of pocket.
This benefit varies by state. Some states have laws requiring insurance companies to provide no-deductible windshield replacement, while in others it’s optional. Below is a state-by-state guide to help you understand where this coverage is available and how you can qualify.
States With Mandatory Zero-Deductible Glass Coverage
In these states, insurance providers are legally required to cover windshield repair or replacement without charging a deductible under comprehensive insurance:
Arizona
- Drivers with comprehensive coverage automatically qualify for zero-deductible windshield replacement.
- Applies to windshields only (not necessarily other auto glass).
Florida
- State law requires insurance companies to provide no-deductible windshield replacement with comprehensive coverage.
- Covers windshields only. Side and rear windows may not be included.
Kentucky
- Offers full safety glass coverage.
- Drivers with comprehensive insurance qualify for zero-deductible repair or replacement of windshields, side windows, and rear windows.
Massachusetts
- Comprehensive coverage includes full glass replacement without a deductible.
- Applies to all vehicle glass, including windshields, side windows, and back glass.
South Carolina
- Requires insurers to provide full safety glass coverage.
- Zero deductible applies to windshield and other auto glass replacement when comprehensive coverage is in place.
States Where Zero-Deductible Glass Coverage Is Optional
In most states, insurers are not required to offer this benefit by law. However, many companies provide it as an optional add-on or rider to comprehensive coverage. You’ll typically pay a small additional premium, but it can save hundreds of dollars in the event of windshield damage.
Here are examples of states where insurers often make this option available:
- California
- Colorado
- Nevada
- New York
- Texas
- Utah
- Virginia
- Washington
- And many others.
In these states, you’ll need to specifically request “full glass coverage” or “zero-deductible glass coverage” when setting up or adjusting your policy.
States Without Zero-Deductible Glass Coverage Options
While rare, some states don’t have legal requirements or widespread insurer options for full glass coverage. In these states, you may need to pay your comprehensive deductible for windshield repair or replacement unless your insurer offers a special plan.
- Oregon and North Carolina, for example, generally do not have mandatory glass coverage laws and may have limited insurer options.
- It’s best to check directly with your provider to confirm availability.
How to Qualify for Zero-Deductible Glass Coverage
- Have Comprehensive Insurance
- Zero-deductible glass coverage is almost always tied to comprehensive coverage, which protects against damage not caused by collisions (theft, weather, vandalism, etc.).
- Zero-deductible glass coverage is almost always tied to comprehensive coverage, which protects against damage not caused by collisions (theft, weather, vandalism, etc.).
- Check State Laws
- If you live in AZ, FL, KY, MA, or SC, you automatically qualify under state law.
- If you live in AZ, FL, KY, MA, or SC, you automatically qualify under state law.
- Ask Your Insurance Provider
- In optional states, request “full glass” or “zero-deductible glass” coverage. It may appear as a small line-item charge on your policy.
- In optional states, request “full glass” or “zero-deductible glass” coverage. It may appear as a small line-item charge on your policy.
- Consider the Cost vs. Risk
- Adding this coverage is usually inexpensive. Given that windshield replacements can cost $300 to $1,000+, it often pays for itself after a single claim.
- Adding this coverage is usually inexpensive. Given that windshield replacements can cost $300 to $1,000+, it often pays for itself after a single claim.
Key Takeaways
- Five states (AZ, FL, KY, MA, SC) require insurers to provide zero-deductible glass coverage with comprehensive policies.
- In most other states, you’ll need to add optional full glass coverage to your policy.
- Always check your specific insurer’s offerings, as coverage can vary even within the same state.
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Use Glass.net’s free quote tool to compare up to three local shops for quality windshield replacement.
To read more, visit blog.glass.net
