A car dealer typically cannot force you to buy insurance directly. Car insurance is typically a separate product and a legal requirement in many places, but it is usually your responsibility to obtain it on your own. However, there are some situations where a car dealer may appear to be pressuring you to purchase insurance, and it’s important to understand your rights in these situations.

1. Financing Requirements: If you are financing the purchase of a car through the dealer, the lender may require you to have insurance as a condition of the loan. In this case, while the dealer itself may not force you to buy insurance, the lender, often associated with the dealer, will require proof of insurance.
2. Gap Insurance: Some dealers may offer gap insurance as an add-on to your car purchase. Gap insurance covers the difference between what you owe on a car loan and what the car is worth in case of a total loss. While dealers may recommend it, you are not obligated to buy it from them, and you can shop for gap insurance from other providers.
3. Liability Insurance: Liability insurance is a legal requirement in many places. While a dealer cannot force you to buy insurance, they may refuse to sell you a car without proof of insurance since it’s a legal requirement for operating a vehicle on public roads.
4. Dealership Policies: Some dealers may have policies requiring you to show proof of insurance before they allow you to take possession of the vehicle. While this may feel like pressure, it’s often their way of ensuring you comply with legal requirements.

In summary, a car dealer cannot force you to buy insurance directly, but they may have requirements related to financing and the legal requirements for operating a vehicle. It’s essential to be aware of these requirements and shop for insurance that meets your needs and budget. You are not obligated to purchase insurance through the dealer, and you have the right to explore insurance options from other providers. Always be sure to understand the terms and conditions associated with any insurance products offered by the dealer and consider obtaining insurance quotes from multiple sources to get the best coverage at the most competitive rates.