So, you just got married, or you just had a point taken off your record or you just improved your credit score. Your auto insurance premiums should be a little lower now, right? 

Well, don't count on it.

In some cases, your car insurance provider will automatically adjust your premiums to fit your current profile. Once certain moving violations are off your record, for instance, you may see an instant change to your bill.

But most factors will not result in a change until you get in touch with your insurer and let them know.

Businesses have a lot of technology to track their customers now. If you tell your insurer that you're married, they can check with the courthouse and see if you ever filed a marriage certificate.

But they don't exactly check every customer's data on a weekly basis, nor do they have a system plugged directly into your credit rating to see how you're doing in real-time.

As a general rule of thumb, it breaks down like this:

•  If it's just a matter of time, then your rates will probably be adjusted automatically. Your insurer already knows when you were born, so they will typically adjust your insurance premiums accordingly each time you hit an age milestone. Likewise, points on your record typically have a built-in expiration date, and once that date is passed, they will no longer be held against you.
•  If it's something you went out of your way to achieve, like an advanced driving course, an improved credit score, or you just got married, you'll probably have to call them up and let them know. In some instances, you may be required to show proof, such as a certificate of completion for that driving course. Some discounts may even involve an application process after you've completed the necessary qualifications.

All of this being said, different insurers may have different approaches to tracking your profile, so any time you're expecting your rates to go down, for any reason, it's a good idea to call your insurer and keep them informed.