How to Get Auto Insurance for a Teen Driver

Teen drivers are some of the most expensive drivers to insure—but with the right strategy, you can keep costs under control while still giving your teen strong protection on the road.

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Why teen drivers cost more to insure

Teen drivers have limited experience behind the wheel, and insurers see them as higher‑risk. This usually means higher premiums—especially for 16‑ to 19‑year‑olds.

Insurers look at:

• Age and driving experience.
• Whether the teen has completed driver’s education.
• The type of vehicle they drive.
• Whether they have accidents or violations early on.
• How often they drive and for what purpose.

Step 1: Add your teen to an existing policy

This is almost always cheaper than buying a separate policy. Multi‑driver and multi‑vehicle discounts can significantly reduce the cost.

Adding a teen to your policy also gives them access to your established insurance history, which can help lower their rate over time.

Step 2: Choose the right vehicle

The car your teen drives has a major impact on the premium. High‑performance, luxury, or unsafe vehicles cost more to insure.

Look for vehicles that are:

• Safe and reliable.
• Moderate in value.
• Not sports cars or high‑horsepower models.
• Equipped with modern safety features.

Step 3: Use telematics to prove safe driving

Telematics programs track driving habits and reward safe behavior. Teens who avoid speeding, hard braking, and late‑night driving can earn significant discounts.

These programs can also help parents monitor driving habits and coach safer behavior.

Step 4: Stack every teen‑friendly discount

Teen drivers qualify for several unique discounts that can dramatically reduce the cost.

• Good student discount: For maintaining strong grades.
• Driver’s education discount: For completing approved training.
• Student away at school: If they attend college without a car.
• Multi‑vehicle and multi‑policy discounts: When bundled with home or renters insurance.
• Telematics/safe‑driver programs: For proving responsible driving.

Step 5: Compare multiple insurers

Some insurers specialize in teen drivers and offer better pricing or stronger telematics programs. Rates vary widely, so comparing several companies is essential.

Include:

• National insurers.
• Regional carriers.
• Online/direct insurers.
• Independent agents who can quote multiple companies at once.

Step 6: Choose the right coverage level

Teens are more likely to be involved in accidents, so cutting coverage too low can be risky. Instead of reducing liability limits, look for savings in deductibles, discounts, and vehicle choice.

Liability coverage

Higher limits are recommended because teen drivers have a higher chance of causing costly accidents.

Comprehensive and collision

These protect the teen’s vehicle. Adjust deductibles to balance cost and risk.

Uninsured/underinsured motorist

Essential protection if your teen is hit by a driver with little or no insurance.

Step 7: Avoid mistakes that raise teen insurance costs

Quick comparison: Teen driver cost factors

FAQ: Getting auto insurance for a teen driver

Is it cheaper to add a teen to an existing policy?

Almost always. Separate teen policies are usually much more expensive.

When do teen insurance rates go down?

Rates often drop at ages 19, 21, and 25—especially with a clean driving record.

Does a teen need full coverage?

If the vehicle is financed or valuable, yes. Otherwise, liability‑only may be an option for older cars.

Can a teen get insurance without being on a parent’s policy?

Yes, but it’s usually more expensive. Joining a household policy is almost always cheaper.

Final thoughts

Insuring a teen driver doesn’t have to break your budget. By choosing the right vehicle, using telematics, stacking discounts, and comparing multiple insurers, you can secure strong protection at a fair price—and help your teen build a safe, responsible driving record from day one.