You’re driving down the 101 during rush hour when a truck kicks up a rock. You hear that awful ping. By the time you get home, there’s a crack crawling across your windshield.
Now what?
Here’s the good news. If you have the right insurance, you can get that windshield replaced for free. No deductible. No out-of-pocket cost. Arizona is one of the few states where this is actually possible.
This post breaks down how the law works, who qualifies, and how to make sure you’re not paying a dime more than you need to.
What Makes Arizona Different From Other States
Most states don’t care about your windshield. You file a claim, you pay your deductible, end of story.
Arizona is different.
Under state law ARS 20-263, insurance companies in Arizona are required to offer a $0 deductible option for windshield replacement as part of comprehensive coverage. That means if you have full glass coverage, you pay nothing when your windshield gets damaged.
Why does this law exist? Because Arizona roads are brutal on windshields. Between the construction debris on the freeways, gravel trucks on the I-10, and temperature swings that go from 115 degrees in the afternoon to 75 at night, cracked windshields are just part of life here. The state figured it made sense to make replacements easier.
Arizona actually accounts for about 10% of all auto glass claims in the country, despite having a fraction of the population of states like California or Texas. That tells you something about how common windshield damage is here.
Who Actually Qualifies for Free Replacement
Not everyone gets a free windshield. You need to check a few boxes first.
You need comprehensive auto insurance. Liability-only policies don’t cover glass damage. Comprehensive is the part of your policy that handles things like theft, vandalism, hail, and yes, windshield cracks.
Your policy must include full glass coverage with a $0 deductible. Some policies add this automatically. Others make it optional. Either way, you need to confirm it’s there.
Your policy needs to be written in Arizona. If you moved here recently and still have an out-of-state policy, Arizona’s windshield law might not apply to you. Your coverage follows the rules of whatever state issued the policy.
Quick checklist:
- Do you have comprehensive coverage?
- Does your policy include full glass coverage?
- Is your deductible for glass $0?
- Was your policy written in Arizona?
If you answered yes to all four, you’re good to go.
How to Check If Your Policy Covers It
Don’t assume you’re covered. Check.
The easiest way is to call your insurance company and ask one simple question: “Do I have full glass coverage with a zero deductible?”
You can also look at your declarations page. That’s the summary document that comes with your policy. Look for a line item related to glass coverage or comprehensive deductible. If it says $0 for glass, you’re set.
The majority of major Arizona insurers provide this coverage, including State Farm, GEICO, Progressive, Allstate, Farmers, and USAA, all of whom offer $0 deductible glass options. While some include it automatically, others require a small additional monthly premium, typically just a few dollars.
Filing a Claim Without Raising Your Rates
This is the part that trips people up. They’re worried that filing a claim will make their insurance go up.
Here’s how it works in Arizona.
Windshield claims are considered “no-fault” claims. You didn’t cause the damage. A rock did. Because of that, Arizona law says these claims shouldn’t affect your premium.
That said, if you’re filing multiple glass claims every year, your insurer might start asking questions. One or two claims a year is totally normal in Arizona. But if you’re replacing your windshield every few months, they might flag your account for review. It’s rare, but worth knowing.
What About Chip Repairs
Not every piece of damage needs a full replacement.
Small chips, the kind that are about the size of a quarter or smaller, can usually be repaired instead of replaced. Most insurance companies cover windshield chip repairs for free, even if you haven’t hit your deductible yet. They’d rather pay $50 for a repair than $300 or more for a replacement.
Here’s the catch. You need to get it fixed fast.
In Arizona heat, a small chip can turn into a long crack in a matter of days. Once that crack spreads, repair isn’t an option anymore. You’re looking at a full replacement.
If you notice a chip, don’t wait. Get it looked at within a day or two. The longer you wait, the more likely it is to spread.
The Cash Back Bonus Most Drivers Don’t Know About
Here’s something that surprises a lot of people.
In Arizona, auto glass companies are allowed to offer cash back and other incentives when you get your windshield replaced through insurance. This is totally legal and pretty common.
Some shops offer up to $375 cash back plus additional perks when you use your insurance for a windshield replacement. That’s money in your pocket for something you needed to do anyway.
This is unique to Arizona. If you’re in Florida or South Carolina, state laws prohibit these kinds of incentives. But here in Arizona, it’s fair game.
So not only do you get a free windshield, you might actually come out ahead.
How the Replacement Process Works
Getting your windshield replaced is easier than most people think. Here’s what to expect.
First, you contact an auto glass company. Give them your insurance info and vehicle details. They’ll verify your coverage and confirm that everything is good to go.
Next, you schedule the service. Most companies offer mobile service, which means a technician comes to your home or office. You don’t have to take time off work or sit in a waiting room.
The actual replacement takes about 60 to 90 minutes. The tech removes the old glass, preps the frame, installs the new windshield, and makes sure everything is sealed properly.
If your vehicle has advanced driver assistance systems like lane departure warning or automatic emergency braking, those cameras and sensors will need ADAS calibration after the new glass goes in. This is a critical step. If it’s skipped, your safety features might not work correctly.
After everything is done, you’ll need to wait about an hour before driving. That gives the adhesive time to cure and bond properly.
That’s it. No trips to a service center. No paperwork headaches. No bills to pay.
Common Questions Arizona Drivers Ask
Will this show up on my insurance record?
Yes, but it’s listed as a no-fault claim. It shouldn’t affect your rates the way an accident would.
Can I choose any auto glass shop I want?
Absolutely. Your insurance company might suggest a preferred vendor, but you’re not required to use them. You have the right to pick the shop you trust.
What if I only have liability insurance?
Then you’ll pay out of pocket. The $0 deductible benefit only applies to comprehensive coverage. That said, windshield replacement without insurance is still affordable, especially compared to states with higher labor costs.
How long do I have to wait before I can drive?
About an hour. The adhesive needs time to set before it’s safe to drive. Your technician will let you know when you’re good to go.
Does the type of glass matter?
It can. OEM glass is made by the same manufacturer as your original windshield. Aftermarket glass is made by third parties. Both can work fine, but OEM is generally considered higher quality and fits better, especially on vehicles with ADAS.
Stop Driving Around With a Cracked Windshield
Arizona makes it pretty easy to get your windshield replaced at no cost. The law is on your side. The process is simple. And if you pick the right shop, you might even walk away with cash in your pocket.
If you’ve been putting off that repair because you thought it would be expensive or complicated, now you know better.
Check your policy. Confirm your coverage. And get that windshield fixed before the crack gets worse.