Even if your driving record is bad or truly ugly, there's almost surely a policy to cover you. Do your homework, and you're bound to find the best deal.

Finding a good deal on an auto insurance policy isn't easy these days, especially if you live in a high-cost state such as New Jersey, New York or California. So when looking for coverage, be prepared to do some research.

In some states, more than 200 companies write auto policies, so even if you get half a dozen quotes, you're only scratching the surface. In other states, you'll have fewer than 50 insurers to choose from.

And even once you find a company with great rates, there's no guarantee you'll get them. After all, you may not qualify for a simple reason, such as a poor driving record. Worse yet, you may find that the great rate evaporates once your policy comes up for renewal in six months or a year.

So be on your guard. To lock in the cheapest deal, you may have to insure with a company you've never heard of and switch providers fairly often. Either way, it pays to shop around.

Here's a guide to the most efficient way to find a good deal.

Internet quotes

The Web is a great place to start your search.

You can get quotes from the Web sites of insurers such as Geico Direct and General Electric's Electric Insurance and from services like InsWeb.

The 800 guys

As you start collecting quotes, don't miss the insurance companies that sell their policies over an 800 number, including Geico Direct (1-800-861-8380), Amica (1-800-242-6422), Ameriprise (1-800-535-2001), USAA (1-800-531-8100) or 21st Century (1-800-870-8212).

After all, these companies don't have to shell out 15% commissions to field agents. And it stands to reason that they'd pass their savings on to their policyholders.