Why is car insurance for new drivers so expensive?

Asked by: Mike Walter  |  Last update: January 2, 2026
Score: 4.4/5 (48 votes)

The lack of experience and driving history plays a major role in determining insurance rates. Young drivers are seen as more prone to accidents due to inexperience, making them riskier clients for insurers. This can result in higher premiums and even difficulty obtaining insurance coverage.

Why does insurance cost so much for new drivers?

Insurance companies base their rates on risk assessment and young drivers are statistically more likely to be involved in accidents or traffic violations. Inexperienced drivers are still adjusting to the nuances of driving, gaining confidence and learning how to navigate unexpected situations on the road.

Why is it hard for new drivers to get insurance?

Many insurance companies consider new drivers riskier to insure due to their lack of experience, so they may see higher rates. However, comparing quotes and exploring coverage options may help new drivers find the coverage they need at a price they can afford.

Why is my insurance so high for my first car?

If you've just gotten your driver's license for the first time, you can expect to pay more than the average rate for auto insurance. Car insurance companies will think that you're more likely to get into an accident due to your lack of driving experience.

What car is cheapest to insure for new drivers?

Cheapest cars to insure 2025: the shortlist
  • Hyundai i10.
  • Volkswagen Polo.
  • Skoda Fabia.
  • Kia Picanto.
  • Toyota Aygo X.
  • VW Caddy.
  • Fiat 500.
  • Dacia Sandero.

Why is car insurance so expensive for young drivers?

20 related questions found

Which type of insurance is best for new drivers?

Minimum coverage policies are the cheapest car insurance for new drivers. That's because they include the lowest amount of coverage you can legally have in your state. However, liability insurance only pays for injuries to other drivers if you cause a crash.

Does credit score affect car insurance?

How credit-based insurance scores work. Most U.S. insurance companies use credit-based insurance scores along with your driving history, claims history and many other factors to establish eligibility for payment plans and to help determine insurance rates. Again, except in California, Hawaii, and Massachusetts.

Who normally has the cheapest car insurance?

Geico, Nationwide and Travelers are among the least expensive for car insurance. Americans are paying a lot for car insurance these days: Average annual rates for a full coverage policy are up to $2,638 per year, while minimum coverage averages $767 per year.

What age is car insurance most expensive?

18-year-old drivers on their own policy pay the highest car insurance premiums out of the age groups Bankrate analyzed. The most significant difference in premiums by gender occurs at age 18. On average, 18-year-old males cost 9 percent less to insure than their female counterparts.

At what age does insurance go down for new drivers?

The most substantial reductions in auto insurance rates typically come as teen drivers get older, usually when they hit 18 or 19 years old. Rates continue to decline as you age, particularly once drivers pass the age of 25.

At what age is car insurance the cheapest?

Experienced drivers are less likely to have accident claims, which means they cost less to insure. At Progressive, the average premium per driver tends to decrease significantly from 19-34 and then stabilize or decrease slightly from 34-75. At age 75, the average premium begins trending upward.

How much will car insurance go up with new driver?

Our analysis shows that adding your teen to your policy may increase car insurance rates by 70% to 150%. You can get a 5% to 25% discount on your policy if your young driver does well in high school or college. Adding a teenager to a car insurance policy is less expensive than buying them an individual policy.

Why did my insurance go down when I added a driver?

In some cases, adding an older driver with a clean driving record could actually reduce your premium, especially if you're a driver under 25 or someone with infractions on their license.

Who is cheaper, GEICO or Progressive?

GEICO is cheaper and has better ratings than Progressive. Your experience with GEICO and Progressive will vary based on individual rating factors.

How do I get lower car insurance?

Nine ways to lower your auto insurance costs
  1. Shop around. ...
  2. Before you buy a car, compare insurance costs. ...
  3. Ask for higher deductibles. ...
  4. Reduce coverage on older cars. ...
  5. Buy your homeowners and auto coverage from the same insurer. ...
  6. Maintain a good credit record. ...
  7. Take advantage of low mileage discounts. ...
  8. Ask about group insurance.

Who is the #1 insurance company in the USA?

State Farm is the largest auto insurance company in the U.S. based on written premium, or the total amount it bills customers. Progressive is the second-largest car insurance company, followed by Geico and Allstate.

Does State Farm run your credit?

Most major car insurance companies like GEICO, Progressive and State Farm factor in your credit score when giving you a quote. Some smaller, regional insurers skip credit checks, though their coverage options (and available online information) can be limited.

What bills improve your credit score?

As with cell phone bills, cable and internet bills can help your score if you opt in to a service like Experian Boost that gives you credit for utility and other kinds of payments. Just be mindful that not all of your credit reports will be affected.

Does paying car payments build credit?

Making regular, on-time payments on a car loan can positively impact credit scores.

What happens if I don't add my teenager to my car insurance?

Failing to add your teenager to your auto insurance can lead to coverage denial, legal penalties and policy cancellation. Lack of driving experience and perceived higher risk contribute to higher car premiums for teen drivers.

Why is insurance so high for 18-year-olds?

Generally, an 18-year-old driver pays less for auto insurance than a 16-year-old driver. However, if you're newly licensed at 18, you'll have two years fewer driving experience than your peers who got their licenses at 16. As a result, companies will charge you slightly higher rates to insure your vehicle.

How long do you have to add a new driver to your insurance policy?

A grace period of 60 days often applies. However, the requirements vary by state. For example, insurance companies in Maryland, Indiana, and Illinois require standard coverage for drivers with a learner's permit. Insurers in other states start charging once your teen has a full license.