Glossary

Declarations page

The summary page of an auto policy listing who and what is insured, the coverages, limits, deductibles, premium and policy period.

Also called: dec page, declarations, policy declarations

The declarations page, or dec page, is usually the first page of an auto insurance policy and the quickest way to see what you bought. The rest of the policy explains the rules; the declarations page fills in your specifics.

It typically shows the named insured and mailing address, the policy period, each insured vehicle and its VIN, listed drivers, and every coverage with its limits and deductibles, such as bodily injury liability of 100/300 or collision with a $500 deductible. It also lists the premium for each coverage and vehicle, discounts applied, the endorsement forms that change the standard policy, and any lienholders or loss payees.

Read it when you buy and at every renewal. Check that every driver in the household is listed or excluded as you intended, that each car's garaging address and use are right, and that the limits match what you meant to buy. Lenders and courts may ask for it as proof of coverage, and it is the starting point when you compare quotes from other insurers. If anything is wrong, ask your insurer to correct it in writing before you need to file a claim. See how to read your declarations page.

Last reviewed October 4, 2026

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Related terms

Named insured The person or business listed by name on the declarations page as the policy's owner, with the broadest coverage and most rights under the contract. Liability limits The most a liability policy will pay for injuries and property damage you cause, usually written as three numbers such as 100/300/100. Deductible The amount you pay toward a covered loss before your insurer pays the rest, set per claim for coverages like collision and comprehensive. Endorsement A written amendment to an insurance policy that adds, removes or changes coverage, such as rideshare use, rental coverage or OEM parts. Policy period The span of time a car insurance policy is in force, usually six or 12 months, from its effective date to its expiration date. Lienholder The bank, credit union or finance company with a legal claim on a financed car until the loan is paid off, usually named on the insurance policy.

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