Call a licensed agent: 833-964-9663

The cost of adding a teen driver to your car insurance

The cost of adding a teen driver to your car insurance

Written by Elizabeth Rivelli

Reviewed by Alyssa DiCrasto

Last updated: November 28, 2023

For most teenagers, getting a driver’s license is a rite of passage. But before teens can get behind the wheel alone, they need to have car insurance. As the parent or guardian of a newly licensed teen driver, you might have questions about car insurance for teens , including how much it costs. In this guide, we’ll look at the average cost of adding a teen to car insurance and explain how you can lower your premium after adding a young driver to your policy.

Adding a teen driver to your car insurance policy

After your child gets their driver’s license, you have two options. You can add them to your existing car insurance policy or you can purchase a new policy for your teen. In general, adding a teen to your existing policy is the cheaper option. Teens with their own car insurance policy pay extremely high rates for coverage due to their lack of experience and increased risk.

However, parents who add a teen driver to their car insurance policy will still see their premium increase. During this time, it’s important to find ways to reduce your car insurance rate. There are a variety of ways to get a lower teen car insurance price, including shopping around for new quotes that might be more affordable after adding your child to the policy.

Find cheap car insurance near you

"*" indicates required fields

Zip Code*
Hidden
Hidden
Hidden
Hidden

Oops! We could not locate your form.

What does it cost to insure a teenage driver?

If your child has recently gotten their driver’s license, you’re probably wondering how to insure them. You might be deciding whether to add them to your own policy or get a new policy for your teen. Looking at average car insurance rates for teens and parents can help you make the best choice for your financial situation. 

The average cost of car insurance for a teen driver on their own insurance policy is significantly higher than the average rate for a parent on their own policy – by about 340%.

When a parent adds a newly licensed driver to their car insurance policy, premiums go up. Our rate data shows that the average rate for a parent and a teen on the same policy, with a single vehicle, is a little more than double (about 147% more per year) the parent’s policy alone. For a parent and a teen on the same policy with two cars, the average rate sits around 240% more per year.

For parents, adding a teen to an existing car insurance policy can be expensive. However, it’s much cheaper than purchasing a new insurance policy for your teen. Adding a teen to your existing policy and insuring two vehicles costs 36% less than having an individual policy for the parent and an individual policy for the teen.

In the table below, you can see the average cost of insuring a 17-year-old driver on their own policy, and on a combined policy with their parent:

State Teen's Policy Parent's Policy Combined
Alabama 8,588 1,531 4,248
Alaska 6,722 1,524 4,062
Arizona 8,866 1,616 4,700
Arkansas 8,459 1,702 4,101
California 5,144 1,923 4,029
Colorado 10,124 1,848 4,239
Connecticut 10,435 1,994 4,942
Delaware 14,276 2,297 5,573
Florida 11,851 2,300 6,135
Georgia 10,961 1,781 5,109
Hawaii 1,701 1,255 1,263
Idaho 6,314 1,072 2,959
Illinois 8,344 1,652 4,166
Indiana 5,906 1,335 3,335
Iowa 6,025 1,390 3,300
Kansas 8,713 1,771 4,114
Kentucky 9,611 1,861 4,942
Louisiana 12,724 2,780 7,497
Maine 5,074 1,186 2,934
Maryland 10,951 2,159 5,581
Massachusetts 6,079 1,647 3,627
Michigan 9,433 2,406 5,799
Minnesota 7,199 1,796 4,551
Mississippi 7,787 1,486 3,920
Missouri 9,264 2,004 4,950
Montana 7,143 1,384 3,008
Nebraska 6,894 1,693 3,885
Nevada 12,800 2,136 6,701
New Hampshire 6,315 1,280 3,259
New Jersey 12,246 2,087 5,676
New Mexico 7,604 1,450 3,591
New York 10,545 3,334 6,903
North Carolina 4,918 1,525 3,172
North Dakota 7,281 1,431 3,427
Ohio 5,703 1,184 2,991
Oklahoma 11,037 1,974 4,412
Oregon 7,873 1,417 3,892
Pennsylvania 7,192 1,863 4,821
Rhode Island 11,605 1,908 5,718
South Carolina 6,972 1,579 4,791
South Dakota 8,051 1,916 4,093
Tennessee 7,514 1,522 4,285
Texas 9,313 2,068 5,204
Utah 10,063 1,582 3,885
Vermont 4,647 1,114 2,958
Virginia 8,420 1,517 4,678
Washington 7,774 1,467 3,735
Washington DC 9,225 1,940 4,399
West Virginia 7,725 1,450 4,402
Wisconsin 6,646 1,364 3,427
Wyoming 4,450 1,178 3,270

When does my teen need car insurance?

A teenager needs car insurance before they can legally drive on their own. Typically, your insurance policy will cover your teen while they have their learner’s permit and are supervised by a licensed driver at all times. But once the teen is licensed, they need to be insured.

You should add your teen to your car insurance policy as soon as they get their driver’s license. If you’re adding them to your existing policy, you can call your car insurance company and request to add a new driver, or add them to your policy online.

If you’re purchasing a new policy for the teen, you will need to shop around and get quotes, and submit an application. If you take out a policy on your teen’s behalf, the policy will likely need to be in your name, even if your teen is paying the premiums.

Should I put my child on my car insurance?

Most car insurance agents recommend adding your child to your existing car insurance policy. Purchasing a new policy just for your teen is incredibly expensive, and rates typically don’t come down until the driver reaches their mid-twenties. Although your rate will go up after adding a teen to your policy, it’s the cheaper option. Additionally, there are a variety of ways to lower your premium while the teen is insured on your car insurance policy.

How to add a teen driver to car insurance

Adding a teen driver to your car insurance policy is usually a simple process. You can contact your insurance company and let them know that you want to add your teen to your car insurance policy. Many car insurance companies also allow you to add a new driver through your online account or the company’s mobile app.

You will need to provide basic information about the teen, like their date of birth and driver’s license number. If your teen has their own vehicle, you will also need to add the car to your policy. Have the make, model, year, VIN, and odometer reading ready when you add the vehicle. Adding a second vehicle to your policy could help you earn a multi-vehicle discount.

How to save money on teen car insurance

There are many ways to reduce your car insurance premium after adding a teen to your policy. One of the best options is to look for discounts. Most car insurance providers offer discounts for taking a defensive driving course, bundling your policies, paying your premium in full, having no recent claims on your record, and insuring a new vehicle.

If your insurance provider offers a telematics-based insurance program, enrolling and participating can also help you save money. These programs use a smartphone to track your driving behaviors during trips, such as your speed, brake force, phone use, and time of day. If you consistently demonstrate safe driving habits, you could earn a discount.

For policies that require a deductible, like collision and comprehensive insurance, choosing higher deductibles can reduce your premium. However, make sure you can afford to pay the higher deductible out-of-pocket in the event that you need to file a claim.

Another great way to save money on car insurance is to shop around and compare quotes from multiple insurance companies. Comparing quotes can help you find the most affordable rate for your situation. You can take our short quiz to see how much you can expect to pay for car insurance when you add your teen.

Discounts for teenagers

Many car insurance companies offer discounts specifically for teens. While every car insurance provider offers different discounts, the most common discounts are good student discounts and students away at school discounts.

With a good student discount, teens can qualify for a reduced premium if they maintain a minimum grade point average (GPA) or receive honors, such as making the Dean’s List. With a student away at school discount, teens can save money if they attend school at least 100 miles away from home and don’t take their vehicle with them. Typically, this discount is only available on collision and/or comprehensive insurance.

Some insurance companies may offer other teen discounts, such as savings for taking a driver safety course or driver’s ed program. You can ask an insurance agent about what savings your teen might qualify for.

Frequently asked

Do you have to add your child to your car insurance policy?

Parents and guardians are not required to add their child to their car insurance policy. However, teens must be insured before they can legally drive alone. If you don’t intend to purchase a new car insurance policy for your teen, you will need to add them to your existing policy.

How much does it cost to insure a 16-year-old?

The average cost of car insurance for a 16-year-old is $4,800 per year. However, car insurance rates depend on many factors besides age. Your location, vehicle type, coverage limits, and insurance company are several other factors that can affect personalized premiums.

Is it cheaper to be on your parent’s insurance?

Yes, it is generally cheaper to be insured on a parent’s insurance policy. The average 17-year-old pays $7,401 per year for their own car insurance policy. For comparison, the average rate for a teen on their parent’s policy, with one vehicle, is $4,189 per year.

Can I insure my child’s car if they don’t live with me?

Most insurance companies don’t allow parents to insure children that don’t live in the same household. Typically, you can only add people to your car insurance policy that live in the same household and share the same address. However, every insurance company has its own rules, and some may allow you to insure a child’s car if they don’t live with you.

About Rate Retriever

At Rate Retriever, our mission is to make the way you shop for insurance transparent and fair through user-friendly tools that respect your privacy and deliver reliable, comprehensive results 

So we took everything we hated about comparing insurance quotes online – the spam, the long questionnaires, the limited choices, the inaccuracy of quote prices – and threw it out the window, favoring a short form that more accurately estimates what you’ll pay at each of the top insurance providers near you. 

Rate Retriever is an independent company that is not owned by an insurance provider, nor do we provide insurance ourselves. This independence allows us to be your free and impartial insurance research tool, helping you make the best decisions for your insurance needs.  

We may earn a commission when you click one of the links or call one of the providers listed on our site; however, we do not allow our partnerships to influence which information we provide. 

Share this article

How much car insurance coverage do I need?

How much car insurance coverage do I need?

In nearly every state, drivers are required to carry a minimum amount of car insurance. You must carry at least the minimum amount of coverage to register your vehicle and legally drive. However, the amount of coverage your state requires won’t necessarily be enough to fully protect you in the event of an accident.

Before you purchase an auto insurance policy, it’s important to ask the question, “How much car insurance coverage do I need?” In this guide, we’ll explain how much coverage drivers typically need, and who can benefit from choosing a full coverage policy. We’ll also share the average cost of car insurance for minimum coverage and full coverage.

How much car insurance do I need?

Every state has different car insurance requirements. You must meet the state’s requirements to get behind the wheel legally. If you lease or finance your vehicle, you might be required to carry more car insurance coverage than your state mandates.

Minimum car insurance requirements

Most states require drivers to carry a minimum amount of personal liability insurance. Liability insurance covers your legal and financial responsibilities when you cause an accident and someone else gets injured or their property gets damaged. Some states also require drivers to carry uninsured and/or uninsured motorist insurance or personal injury protection (PIP) as part of a minimum coverage policy.

Select your state from the dropdown menu to see its required coverage types and minimum coverage amounts:

Car insurance by state

Find my state

Lender requirements

Drivers who lease or finance their vehicles are often required to carry more coverage than the state requires. Typically, lenders require drivers to have a full coverage policy for the duration of their lease or loan agreement. A full coverage policy provides physical damage coverage for the vehicle. This is important to lenders because they have an insurable interest in the vehicle and legally own the car until your loan is paid off or your lease is returned.

Full coverage car insurance

A full coverage car insurance policy is optional for most drivers (unless it’s required by a lender). Full coverage car insurance policies include a bundle of coverages that provide coverage for you and your vehicle. Here are the coverages that are typically found with a full coverage car insurance policy:

  • Liability insurance: A full coverage policy includes liability insurance, and the coverage limits tend to be higher than what the state requires. This gives you more financial protection if you cause an accident.
  • Collision insurance: Collision insurance covers your vehicle’s repairs after an accident, regardless of which driver was responsible. It typically pays out based on your car’s actual cash value (ACV) and has a deductible.
  • Comprehensive insurance: Comprehensive insurance is often called “other-than-collision insurance.” It covers your vehicle’s repairs if there is damage from incidents like falling objects, fires, floods, hail, or vandalism. Comprehensive insurance also covers theft.
  • Medical payments insurance: If you or any of your passengers get injured in a car accident, medical payments insurance provides a small amount of coverage for your medical bills.

Full coverage vs. minimum coverage car insurance

If you’re wondering, “How much auto insurance coverage do I need,” you can start by comparing a minimum coverage policy and a full coverage policy. A minimum coverage policy is required by law in almost every state, and it’s also the cheapest policy you can get. However, minimum coverage insurance provides the least amount of coverage, and no coverage for your own property in an accident you cause or a non-collision event.

A full coverage policy is optional for most drivers, and it provides significantly more protection than minimum coverage. A full coverage policy will help pay for your vehicle repairs after a collision or non-collision incident, so you don’t have to pay entirely out-of-pocket. Because full coverage is more comprehensive, the premiums are more expensive than minimum coverage.

Most drivers can benefit from choosing a full coverage policy, even if you own your vehicle outright. Although the premiums are higher, having full coverage will save you money if you need to file a physical damage claim. If your vehicle gets damaged and you only have minimum coverage, you must pay for your vehicle repairs out-of-pocket. If your car is totaled, you won’t receive any money to replace it.

How coverage level impacts cost of car insurance

The amount of coverage you have directly impacts your car insurance rate. Minimum coverage insurance is usually much cheaper than full coverage. Based on the rate data we collected, the average minimum coverage premium is $735 per year and the average full coverage premium is $1,824 per year.

In addition to the type of coverage you choose, the amount of coverage you select will also affect your rate. However, lowering your coverage limits doesn’t always have a dramatic impact on the cost of your policy.

For example, we found that a full coverage policy with liability coverage limits of 100/300/100 and a $500 deductible costs $1,824 per year, on average. On the other hand, a full coverage policy with lower liability limits (50/100/50) and a $500 deductible only costs about $10 less per year.

Frequently asked

What is the best coverage for car insurance?

There’s no “best” coverage for car insurance, but insurance agents generally recommend that drivers purchase a full coverage policy. Full coverage provides much better protection than minimum coverage. To find the most affordable full coverage insurance for your situation, it’s a good idea to get quotes from several insurers. You can take our short quiz to see how much you can expect to pay for car insurance.

What is the difference between full coverage and liability car insurance?

Full coverage and liability-only car insurance differ in a few ways. A full coverage insurance policy will cover your vehicle’s repairs after an accident, even if you were responsible. It also pays for some of your medical bills if you get injured in a crash. A liability car insurance policy only covers another person’s losses if you cause an accident. Minimum coverage insurance is also cheaper than full coverage.

Is $100 a month too much for car insurance?

There’s no monthly car insurance payment that is considered “too much.” Car insurance rates are personalized to each driver based on factors like location, age, credit score, claim history, vehicle type, and other things. The type of coverage, amount of coverage, and your insurance company can also impact your rate. For reference, the average minimum coverage policy costs about $61 per month and the average full coverage policy costs $152 per month. However, you might pay more or less for car insurance based on your individual situation.

About Rate Retriever

At Rate Retriever, our mission is to make the way you shop for insurance transparent and fair through user-friendly tools that respect your privacy and deliver reliable, comprehensive results 

So we took everything we hated about comparing insurance quotes online – the spam, the long questionnaires, the limited choices, the inaccuracy of quote prices – and threw it out the window, favoring a short form that more accurately estimates what you’ll pay at each of the top insurance providers near you. 

Rate Retriever is an independent company that is not owned by an insurance provider, nor do we provide insurance ourselves. This independence allows us to be your free and impartial insurance research tool, helping you make the best decisions for your insurance needs.  

We may earn a commission when you click one of the links or call one of the providers listed on our site; however, we do not allow our partnerships to influence which information we provide. 

Share this article

How adding a driver impacts your car insurance

How adding a driver impacts your car insurance

Written by Elizabeth Rivelli

Reviewed by Alyssa DiCrasto

There are several occasions when you need to add a second driver to your car insurance policy. For example, you might get married and combine policies with your new spouse, or add your child to your policy when they get a driver’s license. Adding a driver to your car insurance policy is a simple process, but it can cause your premium, or the price you pay for car insurance, to change.

Before you add a driver to your car insurance policy, there are a few things you should know. In this guide, we’ll explain when and how to add a driver to your insurance policy and share how much it costs to add a new driver to your car insurance.

Adding a driver to your car insurance policy

If you’re the only person listed on your car insurance policy, it’s possible to add more drivers. Most insurance companies allow up to four people on a single policy, whether the additional drivers are relatives or friends. Adding a new driver to your policy is fairly straightforward, and many insurers allow you to make this change online or through the company’s mobile app.

Who can I add to my car insurance policy?

In general, you can add anyone to your car insurance policy who lives in your household. You can add a spouse, children, extended family members, relatives, or friends, as long as they have a valid driver’s license. However, there is usually a limit to the number of people you can add to one policy.

In some states, you are legally required to add the people you live with to your car insurance policy. This includes roommates and family members who live at the same address. For example, if you and your spouse have your own insurance policies, you might have to add each other as an insured driver on your individual policies.

When do I need to add a driver to my car insurance policy?

You should add a driver to your policy as soon as that person needs to start driving your vehicle. So, for instance, once your child gets their learner’s permit, it’s a good idea to add them to your insurance policy, even if it’s not required. Similarly, you might want to add a boyfriend or girlfriend to your policy if you move in together and occasionally drive each other’s vehicles.

How to add a driver to my car insurance

Adding a new driver to your car insurance policy is pretty simple. You will need to contact your insurance provider to have them added, or use the online customer portal or mobile app. To add the driver, you will need to submit their name, date of birth, and driver’s license number. You might also have to disclose information about their driving record or claim history. Once the driver has been added, you will see your new rate if any changes were made.

How much does it cost to add a person to my car insurance?

The cost of adding a person to your car insurance policy depends on several factors, including the person’s age and driving record. Adding a young driver will have a bigger impact on your premium than adding an adult driver. If the new driver has multiple violations or accidents on their record, that could also cause your car insurance rate to increase significantly.

Before you add a person to your car insurance policy, it’s a good idea to get new car insurance quotes. You might find that a different company can offer a lower rate for your new policy. You can take our short quiz to see how much you can expect to pay for car insurance.

Find cheap car insurance near you

"*" indicates required fields

Zip Code*
Hidden
Hidden
Hidden
Hidden

Oops! We could not locate your form.

How adding a spouse impacts car insurance rates

Adding a spouse to your car insurance policy usually has a minimal impact on your rate. In fact, you can often save money by combining car insurance policies with your husband or wife.

Married couples with their own individual car insurance policies will spend an average of $3,645 per year. When married couples are both insured on the same policy, the average premium is $2,797 per year for two vehicles. When a couple shares one car, the premium is much lower at $1,716 per year.

How adding a teen driver impacts car insurance rates

Adding a teen driver usually has the biggest impact on your car insurance rate.  Young drivers lack experience behind the wheel and have the highest accident rate of any age group. However, adding a teen to your car insurance policy is typically cheaper than purchasing a separate insurance policy for your teen.

According to our data, the average premium for a parent alone is $1,693 per year and the average rate for a teen on their own policy is $7,401 per year. When a parent adds a teen to their existing insurance policy and shares one vehicle, the average premium is $4,189 per year. That is an average savings of 36% compared to having two separate policies.

Frequently asked

Who needs to be covered by my car insurance policy?

Any drivers that live in your household should be listed on your car insurance policy. This includes family members, like spouses, children, and parents, as well as roommates. You should also list people who drive your car occasionally, like a co-worker or relative that doesn’t live with you.

When would I need to remove a driver from my car insurance policy?

You can remove a driver from your car insurance policy if they move out of your house or no longer drive your vehicle. For example, if your child moves to a new state for college and gets their own car insurance policy, you could remove them from your policy.

Does car insurance follow the car or the driver?

In general, car insurance follows the car, not the driver. The same coverages apply when you drive the vehicle and when other people drive it. This also goes for people who borrow your vehicle but aren’t listed on your policy as an insured driver.

Should my roommate be listed on my car insurance policy?

If you have a roommate but they never drive your vehicle, you probably don’t need to add them to your insurance policy. However, if your roommate drives your vehicle occasionally, even a few times per year, it’s a good idea to add them. Some states and insurance companies require you to add all drivers living at your address, so ask your insurer about the laws where you live.

Can I add my boyfriend or girlfriend to my car insurance?

Yes, you can add a boyfriend or girlfriend to your car insurance policy if you live together or share a vehicle. If you eventually get married, you could combine the two insurance policies and potentially qualify for a lower insurance premium.

About Rate Retriever

At Rate Retriever, our mission is to make the way you shop for insurance transparent and fair through user-friendly tools that respect your privacy and deliver reliable, comprehensive results 

So we took everything we hated about comparing insurance quotes online – the spam, the long questionnaires, the limited choices, the inaccuracy of quote prices – and threw it out the window, favoring a short form that more accurately estimates what you’ll pay at each of the top insurance providers near you. 

Rate Retriever is an independent company that is not owned by an insurance provider, nor do we provide insurance ourselves. This independence allows us to be your free and impartial insurance research tool, helping you make the best decisions for your insurance needs.  

We may earn a commission when you click one of the links or call one of the providers listed on our site; however, we do not allow our partnerships to influence which information we provide. 

Share this article

Life events that impact your car insurance rates

Life events that impact your car insurance rates

Written by Elizabeth Rivelli

Reviewed by Alyssa DiCrasto

The cost of car insurance is personalized to each individual. The price you’ll pay for car insurance depends on a variety of different factors, like your age, location, and credit score. Additionally, certain life events can impact your car insurance rate. In this article, we’ll look at some of the life events that might cause your car insurance premium to increase or decrease.

What impacts car insurance rates?

When you apply for a car insurance policy, the insurance company uses a variety of rating factors to determine your unique premium.

Personal rating factors include things like:

  • Your age
  • Credit score
  • Vehicle type
  • Driving record
  • Claim history

Policy-related factors include things like:

  • Coverage limits
  • Deductibles
  • Length of the policy term

Another factor that impacts the cost of car insurance is the insurance company that underwrites your policy. Each insurance company charges different rates for the same types and amounts of coverage. As a result, you might find that one company can offer you a much lower rate than a competitor for the same policy.

How car insurance companies determine your rates

Car insurance companies look at many different factors to determine your premium. These factors are used to gauge the amount of risk you bring to the company before it agrees to cover you.

For example, if you live in a location with a high risk of hurricanes, there’s a bigger chance that your vehicle will be damaged by flooding and you will file a claim. As a result, you will likely pay a higher rate for car insurance than a driver who lives in a lower-risk area.

Additionally, drivers who have been involved in multiple accidents or have gotten several speeding tickets are riskier to insure than drivers with a clean record. Therefore, if you have multiple violations, you can expect to pay a higher rate than a driver with a clean record.

To find the most affordable car insurance rate for your situation, it’s a good idea to get quotes from multiple car insurance companies. You can also take our short quiz to see how much you can expect to pay for car insurance at each of the top companies near you.

Find cheap car insurance near you

"*" indicates required fields

Zip Code*
Hidden
Hidden
Hidden
Hidden

Oops! We could not locate your form.

Life events that impact your car insurance rates

There are many personal- and policy-related factors that can affect your car insurance premium. However, certain life events can also impact your rate. Here are some of the biggest life events that may cause your premium to change.

1. Adding a teen driver to your policy

Your car insurance premium will change when you add a young driver to your car insurance policy. For instance, if your child gets their driver’s license and you add them to your policy, your premium will probably increase significantly due to their lack of experience behind the wheel.

Based on our analysis of recent rate data, the average parent with a teen on their policy and one shared vehicle will pay around 60% more than if they didn’t have the teen on their policy. A parent with a teen and two vehicles on their policy can expect to pay around 71% more than they would on their own.

State Teen's Policy Parent's Policy Combined
Alabama 8,588 1,531 4,248
Alaska 6,722 1,524 4,062
Arizona 8,866 1,616 4,700
Arkansas 8,459 1,702 4,101
California 5,144 1,923 4,029
Colorado 10,124 1,848 4,239
Connecticut 10,435 1,994 4,942
Delaware 14,276 2,297 5,573
Florida 11,851 2,300 6,135
Georgia 10,961 1,781 5,109
Hawaii 1,701 1,255 1,263
Idaho 6,314 1,072 2,959
Illinois 8,344 1,652 4,166
Indiana 5,906 1,335 3,335
Iowa 6,025 1,390 3,300
Kansas 8,713 1,771 4,114
Kentucky 9,611 1,861 4,942
Louisiana 12,724 2,780 7,497
Maine 5,074 1,186 2,934
Maryland 10,951 2,159 5,581
Massachusetts 6,079 1,647 3,627
Michigan 9,433 2,406 5,799
Minnesota 7,199 1,796 4,551
Mississippi 7,787 1,486 3,920
Missouri 9,264 2,004 4,950
Montana 7,143 1,384 3,008
Nebraska 6,894 1,693 3,885
Nevada 12,800 2,136 6,701
New Hampshire 6,315 1,280 3,259
New Jersey 12,246 2,087 5,676
New Mexico 7,604 1,450 3,591
New York 10,545 3,334 6,903
North Carolina 4,918 1,525 3,172
North Dakota 7,281 1,431 3,427
Ohio 5,703 1,184 2,991
Oklahoma 11,037 1,974 4,412
Oregon 7,873 1,417 3,892
Pennsylvania 7,192 1,863 4,821
Rhode Island 11,605 1,908 5,718
South Carolina 6,972 1,579 4,791
South Dakota 8,051 1,916 4,093
Tennessee 7,514 1,522 4,285
Texas 9,313 2,068 5,204
Utah 10,063 1,582 3,885
Vermont 4,647 1,114 2,958
Virginia 8,420 1,517 4,678
Washington 7,774 1,467 3,735
Washington DC 9,225 1,940 4,399
West Virginia 7,725 1,450 4,402
Wisconsin 6,646 1,364 3,427
Wyoming 4,450 1,178 3,270

2. Adding or removing a spouse from your policy

Getting married or divorced often has an impact on your car insurance rate. For example, our data shows that married couples who share a vehicle and one insurance policy can save up to 53% on their insurance costs while married couples who have two vehicles will save up to 23% on average.

If you get divorced and remove your spouse from your car insurance policy, it’s possible that your rate could increase. The national average cost of car insurance for one individual is $1,824 per year, which is slightly higher than the average rate for married couples.

3. Moving to a new city or state

Your location is one of the biggest factors that can affect your car insurance premium. Factors like weather risks, vehicle theft rates, accident rates, and uninsured driver rates can all impact the amount you pay for auto insurance in your area. If you move to a new city or state, your car insurance premium might change.

Our average rate data shows that Vermont is the cheapest state for car insurance, with Vermont drivers paying almost 41% less than the national average. We found that Idaho, Maine, Ohio, and Wyoming have the next lowest average premiums.

Using the same data, we determined that the most expensive state for car insurance is New York, with an average rate of $3,061 per year (67.8% more than the national average). The other states with the most expensive rates include Louisiana, Florida, New Jersey, and Delaware.

4. Buying a house

If you recently purchased a home, you might qualify for a lower car insurance premium. Homeowners often pay slightly less for auto insurance than people who rent. Depending on your insurer, homeowner status might be used as a rating factor or a discount opportunity. Either way, you should see your premium decrease after buying a home, assuming you have good credit, no recent claims, and a clean driving record.

5. Buying a second car

When you insure multiple vehicles on the same insurance policy, your insurance company takes on additional risk. If you purchase a second vehicle, you will most likely see your car insurance premium go up. This is especially true if the second vehicle is brand-new or has a very high value.

However, there are ways to minimize your rate increase after purchasing a second car. Many insurance companies offer a multi-car discount, which can help you save some money on your total premium. If you plan to drive the second vehicle less often than your main car, you could also get a usage-based car insurance policy to lower your insurance costs.

6. Changes to your credit score

In almost every state, car insurance companies use credit-based insurance scores to calculate your premium. Drivers with good credit usually pay lower rates than drivers with poor credit. If there have been recent changes to your credit score, it will probably impact your premium when your policy renews.

For example, if you had fair credit but you were able to boost your score into the good credit category, your insurance company may reduce your premium. Conversely, if you had excellent credit but it dropped into the fair credit category, you might see your premium increase.

According to our rate data, here are the average annual rates for drivers based on credit tier in each state:

7. Retirement

Entering retirement won’t cause any direct changes to your car insurance premium. However, retiring could impact your rate in a few ways. For instance, if you’re driving less often during retirement, you could qualify for a low mileage discount, which would reduce your premium. You could also switch to a pay-per-mile policy to save money on your insurance.

While you might qualify for initial savings during retirement, it’s possible that your premium will increase as you get older. After age 70, car insurance rates tend to go up slightly every year.

Frequently asked

What factors affect your car insurance rates?

There are dozens of factors that affect car insurance rates. Some of the most notable factors are your location, age, gender, credit score, driving record, claim history, vehicle type, coverage limits, coverage types, and deductible. Additionally, the car insurance company you select can affect your car insurance premium.

Does your lifestyle affect your car insurance?

There are several lifestyle-related factors that can impact the cost of your auto insurance policy. For example, if you have a long commute to work or take road trips frequently, you might pay more for car insurance than someone who drives less often. Similarly, if you live in a city or urban area, your rate might be higher than someone who lives in a rural area. However, factors like your job, hobbies, or health don’t have any impact on your car insurance.

How does where you live influence the cost of auto insurance?

Where you live has a significant impact on the cost of your car insurance policy. Insurance companies look at things like the severe weather risks in your area, the rate of vehicle thefts in your neighborhood, the number of uninsured drivers in your location, and the cost of car repairs and labor. If you live in an area with few risks, you will probably pay less for car insurance.

About Rate Retriever

At Rate Retriever, our mission is to make the way you shop for insurance transparent and fair through user-friendly tools that respect your privacy and deliver reliable, comprehensive results 

So we took everything we hated about comparing insurance quotes online – the spam, the long questionnaires, the limited choices, the inaccuracy of quote prices – and threw it out the window, favoring a short form that more accurately estimates what you’ll pay at each of the top insurance providers near you. 

Rate Retriever is an independent company that is not owned by an insurance provider, nor do we provide insurance ourselves. This independence allows us to be your free and impartial insurance research tool, helping you make the best decisions for your insurance needs.  

We may earn a commission when you click one of the links or call one of the providers listed on our site; however, we do not allow our partnerships to influence which information we provide. 

Share this article

Auto Insurance Rates Quarterly Update

Average Auto Insurance Rates across America

Quarterly Update | Q3, 2023

How geography, age, vehicle, gender, credit score, coverage level, and adding a driver impacts your insurance rates in each state.

For reporters >

Last Updated: July, 2023

Data included in the report:

We analyzed carrier rates across ~33,000 zip codes in the United States using public rate filings obtained by analytics company First Interpreter. We then modified our base profile to show how different factors impacted car insurance rates, including the following:

National average cost of car insurance in the US: $1,824 a year

Cheapest state for car insurance: Vermont

The average cost of car insurance in Vermont is $1,078 per year, which is 40.9% less than the national average.

The Vermont zip code with the highest insurance rates is Killington, VT ($1,129/yr) while the least expensive is Essex Junction, VT ($1,008/yr). 

Other cheap states for car insurance: Idaho, Maine, Ohio, Wyoming.

Most expensive state for car insurance: New York

The average cost of car insurance in New York is $3,061 per year, which is 67.8% more than the national average.

The New York zip code with the highest insurance rates is Brooklyn, NY ($5,512/yr) while the least expensive is Conklin, NY ($1,160/yr). 

Other expensive states for car insurance: Louisiana, Florida, New Jersey, Delaware.

See the Complete List of States

Download the Q3 report to see the average cost of insurance and how each factor impacts rates in every state

Car insurance rates by factor

Age and car insurance cost

Teen and young adult drivers will pay the most for car insurance, with their rates stabilizing around age 25. Most drivers will have their lowest car insurance rates between ages 45-65.  Seniors age 70 and older may see a small increase in their rates each year. This trendline is the same across most states. 

Gender: male drivers pay more

This will vary state to state, but on average males pay more than female drivers for car insurance. For example, in Alaska, females pay 3% less than males while in Utah, females pay 5% more. The use of gender as a rating factor is limited or banned in California, Hawaii, Massachusetts, Michigan, North Carolina, and Pennsylvania.

Credit Score and car insurance cost

On average, those with excellent credit pay 17% less than those with good credit, and drivers with poor credit pay up to 84% more.

Avg Annual Premium Impact on Cost % Impact

Good Credit

$1,824
Excellent Credit

$1,512

-$312

-17%

Fair Credit

$2,243

$419

+23%

Poor Credit

$3,358

$1,534

+84%

The impact of credit score on insurance rates also varies by state. For example, in Connecticut drivers with a poor credit rating pay about double what drivers with good credit pay while drivers with excellent credit pay 31% less. 

California, Hawaii, and Massachusetts prohibit the use of credit-based insurance scores. In Maryland and Michigan, the role of credit score in insurance rates is limited.

Car insurance by coverage level

The amount of coverage a policy provides impacts the price of car insurance. On average, a policy with the legal minimum coverage saves drivers 60%. However, most drivers want a full coverage policy that covers their own property in a covered incident. 

For a policy with 100/300/100 and a $500 deductible, the average annual premium is $1,824. When the limits are lowered to 50/100/50 with a $500 deductible, drivers only save around $10 a year on average. This suggests that lowering your coverage does not always save you money. 

This also varies based on location, especially because the legal minimum coverage is different for each state. Download the quarterly report to see how coverage levels impact premiums in your state.

Car insurance by vehicle

The cost of car insurance depends on the vehicle’s make, model, year, and trim level. SUVs, minivans, and trucks tend to be cheaper to insure than sedans, sports cars, and luxury vehicles. Older vehicles and vehicles with lower trim levels also tend to be cheaper to insure than new vehicles or vehicles with additional features and value.

For the base models of the 100 most popular 2023 vehicles, the average cost of car insurance is $2,129 a year.

vehicle picture

Cheapest vehicle to insure: Subaru Outback

The average cost of car insurance for a 2023 Subaru Outback is $1,737 per year, which is 18% less than the average 2023 vehicle.

Other inexpensive vehicles: Subaru Forester, Mazda CX-5, and Volkswagen Tiguan.

vehicle picture

Most expensive vehicle to insure: Tesla Model S

The average cost of car insurance for a 2023 Tesla Model S is $4,048 per year, which is 90% more than the average 2023 vehicle.

Other expensive vehicles to insure: Tesla Model Y, Dodge Charger, and Tesla Model 3.

See the Complete List of Vehicles

Download the Q3 report to see the average cost of insurance for each of most popular 2023 vehicle models

How adding a driver to your policy impacts your rates

Getting married and car insurance

On average, married couples save 23% on their car insurance when they combine their policies. If they share a vehicle, their savings reach up to 53%.

Avg Annual Premium Impact on Cost % Impact

Married couple; separate policies

$3,645
Married couple; joint policy (2 vehicles)

$2,797

-$848

-23%

Married couple ; joint policy (1 vehicle)

$1,716

-$1,929

-53%

Covering a teenage driver

For most parents, adding a teenager to their existing car insurance policy will be cheaper than purchasing a separate policy for the teenager. In fact, a parent that shares their vehicle with their teenager will save 54% when they add the teen to their policy rather than purchasing a separate policy for the teen driver. When the teen has their own vehicle, the pair will save 36% with a shared policy.

Avg Annual Premium Impact on Cost % Impact

Parent Only

$1,693

Teen Only

$7,401
Parent + Teen (1 vehicle)

$4,189

-$4,905

-54%

Parent + Teen (2 vehicles)

$5,823

-$3,271

-36%

About the Auto Insurance Rates Report

Rate Retriever is the go-to destination for comparing car insurance rates from top providers. Our super simple tool helps drivers find savings in just 30 seconds by comparing the cost of car insurance at companies near them. It’s free and no sign-up is required.

Rate Retriever estimates rates based on public rate filings obtained by analytics company First Interpreter. This data comes from the rating plans insurance carriers submit to each state’s department of insurance.

For this report, we analyzed carrier rates across ~33,000 zip codes in the United States. Calculations were weighted by each zip code’s population for accuracy. Data is shown on maps by county for simpler visualization. The Geography table for each state highlights popular cities (we picked a single zip in each) to show how location impacts policy cost. We also included the highest and lowest rated zips in each state.

Methodology

Our base profile is a 35-year-old single male with a clean driving record and good credit score, driving a 2022 RAV4. We modify this profile by sex, credit score, age, marital status, homeowner status, and vehicle model to produce the data in this report.

Our base profile has a premium full coverage policy with the following limits:

  • Bodily injury liability: $100,000 per person/$300,000 per accident
  • Property damage liability: $100,000 per accident
  • Comprehensive/Collision: $500 deductible

These are sample rates and should be used for comparative purposes only.

Using the data

As we strive to be the most trusted resource for comparing insurance rates, we invite you to explore our findings, and should you choose to reference them, kindly provide proper attribution to “Rate Retriever” or “RateRetriever.com” and include a link to this page or rateretriever.com for more information.

For any inquiries, assistance, or additional data, feel free to reach out to us at [email protected]. We are able to provide local data for any of the factors analyzed in this report.

Understanding the Types of Homeowners Insurance 

Understanding the Types of Homeowners Insurance 

While home insurance is a valuable protection for all homeowners, not all policies are created equal. There are different types of home insurance available, with different types of coverage. To choose the best home insurance policy for your personal situation and specific needs, it’s important to understand the various coverage types available.

In this article, we’ll explore different home insurance policy types, what home insurance covers, and what factors you should consider when choosing a home insurance policy.

What is home insurance?

Home insurance is a policy that protects the structure of your home, your personal belongings, and your financial responsibilities for third-party liability claims. In the event of a covered loss, such as a house fire or break-in, your home insurance policy provides a settlement that can be used to repair or rebuild your home and replace personal items.

Homeowners insurance provides comprehensive protection for many of the losses that you might face as a homeowner. However, most policies have exclusions. For example, flooding and earthquakes are typically not covered by homeowners insurance. To fill the gaps in coverage, most insurance companies sell optional policies that can supply extra protection.

Find cheap home insurance near you

"*" indicates required fields

Zip Code*
Hidden
Hidden
Hidden
Hidden

Oops! We could not locate your form.

What are the main types of home insurance?

There are several different types of home insurance available. The main types of home insurance are HO-1, HO-2, and HO-3 policies. Here’s a breakdown of these policy types and what is included under each one:

  • HO-1: An HO-1 policy is the most basic form of home insurance. It covers damages to the structure of your home in the event of damage from named perils, which are explicitly listed in the policy. It does not cover your personal property or liabilities. Because of the limited coverage, this policy is not commonly sold, and many mortgage lenders won’t accept it.
  • HO-2: An HO-2 policy covers your dwelling and personal property against the named perils outlined in your policy. It also covers your personal liabilities in most cases.
  • HO-3: An HO-3 policy is the most common type of home insurance. It covers your dwelling against all perils, except for the ones specifically excluded in your policy. HO-3 insurance also covers your personal property on a named-perils basis and includes personal liability, medical payments, and loss of use insurance.
  • HO-5: An HO-5 policy provides the broadest coverage and is generally more expensive than an HO-3 policy. It covers both your dwelling and personal property from all perils, except for the losses that are excluded from your policy. It also includes personal liability insurance, medical payments insurance, and loss of use insurance.
  • HO-8: An HO-8 policy is designed for homes that are 40 years or older. This policy covers fewer perils and has lower dwelling coverage limits.

Basic types of home insurance

Standard home insurance policies, like HO-3 and HO-5 policies, include a variety of coverage types. Here are the coverages that are included with the most common homeowners insurance policies:

  • Dwelling insurance: Dwelling insurance covers the structure of your home if it gets damaged or destroyed in a covered peril, such as a fire, hurricane, or hailstorm. Most policies also cover detached structures, like a gazebo or separate garage.
  • Personal property insurance: Personal property insurance covers your personal belongings if they get stolen or destroyed in a covered event. It covers things like furniture, electronics, clothing, yard equipment, and small appliances.
  • Personal liability insurance: Personal liability insurance protects you from the legal and financial consequences of third-party bodily injury and property damage liability claims. Most policies also cover damage caused by a pet.
  • Medical payments insurance: Medical payments insurance covers the medical expenses of a guest that gets injured on your property. This coverage can apply even if you were not responsible for their injuries.
  • Loss of use insurance: Loss of use insurance covers your living expenses if you’re not able to live in your house due to an insured event, like a fire. It will cover things like hotels, restaurant bills, parking, and laundry.

Factors to consider when choosing home insurance

When selecting a home insurance policy, there are several important factors to consider. Here are the things you should keep in mind as you shop for a policy.  

Property location and risk factors

It’s important to consider the location of your property and its unique risk factors before choosing your home insurance policy. For example, damage from floods and earthquakes are not included under most home insurance policies. So, if you live in an area that has a high risk of these events, consider purchasing separate flood and earthquake insurance.

Also, consider how many valuables you keep in your home. Personal property insurance typically has a low limit on expensive items. If you want full coverage for your valuables, like jewelry or art, consider adding scheduled personal property coverage to your policy.

Coverage limits and deductibles

All home insurance policies have coverage limits, which is the maximum amount of money your insurer will pay out in the event of a claim. Make sure to choose coverage limits that will sufficiently protect your home, personal items, and personal liability. Coverage limits that don’t adequately protect your property can put you at risk financially, even in an insured event.

Also consider that some insurance types, like dwelling and personal property insurance, have deductibles. A deductible is the amount you pay out of pocket for a covered loss. Opting for higher deductibles can lower your monthly premium, but it means you will receive less money if you need to file a claim.

Additional endorsements

In addition to the standard coverage options, most home insurance companies offer endorsements that can be added to your policy, like water backup coverage and identity theft coverage. These endorsements help fill gaps in your policy and address specific needs you may have as a homeowner.

Insurance provider reputation and customer service

As you’re comparing home insurance providers, look for companies that have good ratings from reputable organizations. For example, AM Best rates insurers based on financial stability, and J.D. Power scores companies based on customer and claim satisfaction. Reading customer reviews on platforms such as the Better Business Bureau (BBB) or Trustpilot can also give you a better idea of their performance and what current customers like and don’t like about the provider. 

Cost

The cost of home insurance depends on a variety of factors, including your location, coverage limits, age of your home, deductibles, safety equipment in your home, and more. Additionally, every insurance company charges a different rate for coverage. It can be helpful to get quotes from several companies to see which one can offer you the lowest rate. You can take our short quiz to see how much you can expect to pay for homeowners insurance.

FAQs

What are the three types of homeowners insurance?

The three main types of homeowners insurance are HO-2, HO-3, and HO-5 policies. An HO-3 policy is the most common type of home insurance, whereas an HO-5 policy provides the most extensive coverage. HO-5 policies also tend to have the most expensive premiums

What is the difference between HO1 and HO3?

There are several key differences between an HO-1 and HO-3 policy. An HO-1 policy includes named perils coverage for your dwelling, whereas an HO-3 policy includes open perils coverage for your dwelling. Additionally, an HO-1 policy doesn’t provide any coverage for your personal property or personal liabilities, which HO-3 insurance does.

What is the difference between HO2 and HO3?

An HO-2 policy includes named perils coverage for your dwelling and personal property. On the other hand, an HO-3 policy includes open perils coverage for your dwelling and named perils coverage for your personal property. HO-3 policies are typically more expensive than HO-2 policies.

How much homeowners insurance do I need?

The amount of homeowners insurance you need depends on a variety of factors. It’s recommended that you have enough dwelling insurance to cover the cost of rebuilding your home back to its original condition, and enough personal property insurance to cover the full value of your personal items. Your liability coverage limits should be based on your personal assets and the unique risks at your home, like whether you have a pool or entertain guests often.

Sources

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet

Lorem ipsum dolor sit

About Rate Retriever

At Rate Retriever, our mission is to make the way you shop for insurance transparent and fair through user-friendly tools that respect your privacy and deliver reliable, comprehensive results 

So we took everything we hated about comparing insurance quotes online – the spam, the long questionnaires, the limited choices, the inaccuracy of quote prices – and threw it out the window, favoring a short form that more accurately estimates what you’ll pay at each of the top insurance providers near you. 

Rate Retriever is an independent company that is not owned by an insurance provider, nor do we provide insurance ourselves. This independence allows us to be your free and impartial insurance research tool, helping you make the best decisions for your insurance needs.  

We may earn a commission when you click one of the links or call one of the providers listed on our site; however, we do not allow our partnerships to influence which information we provide. 

Share this article

Am I paying too much for car insurance? 

Am I paying too much for car insurance? 

Written by Elizabeth Rivelli

Reviewed by Alyssa DiCrasto

Last updated: January 6, 2023

Almost 60% of drivers believe they’re paying too much for auto insurance, according to a survey from Forbes Advisor. But how do you know if you’re paying too much for car insurance? 

When you apply for a car insurance policy, the insurer looks at many different factors to determine your premium. Rates are personalized based on your location, age, credit score, and driving record, among other things. To figure out if you’re paying the lowest rate possible, it’s important to shop around and compare rates from multiple companies. 

In this guide, we’ll help you understand whether your auto insurance premium is too high and share some tips that may help you stop overpaying for car insurance. 

Am I paying too much for car insurance?

Many drivers have asked themselves, “Am I paying too much for car insurance?” After all, car insurance can be very expensive, especially if you have a poor credit score or a history of accidents or insurance claims. 

However, it can be difficult to determine whether your car insurance rate is appropriate for your personal situation. Rates are personalized to each driver, and insurance companies use special algorithms and formulas to set your rate. You may find that one insurance company charges much higher rates for the same types and amounts of coverage than another. 

Ultimately, the only way to find out if you’re paying too much for car insurance is to get new quotes from other car insurance companies. If a different insurer can offer you a cheaper rate for the same coverages, you’re probably paying too much for auto insurance.

Compare car insurance near you

"*" indicates required fields

Zip Code*
Hidden
Hidden
Hidden
Hidden

Oops! We could not locate your form.

Why is my car insurance so high?

If you’re wondering why your insurance so high, it could be because of a variety of factors. Here are some of the most common things that contribute to expensive car insurance premiums: 

  • Location: If you live in an area with a high risk of severe weather, like hurricanes, or an area with a high crime rate, you could pay more for auto insurance.  

  • Age: Young drivers who are newly licensed typically pay the highest car insurance rates. Premiums start to decrease as you get older.  

  • Gender: In general, males pay slightly higher car insurance rates than women.  

  • Credit score: Drivers with excellent credit scores are viewed as less risky, and often pay lower rates for auto insurance than drivers with poor credit.  

  • Driving record: If you have any recent traffic violations on your record, like an at-fault accident, speeding ticket, or DUI, you can expect to pay a higher rate for car insurance. After these violations are removed from your record, your premium should return to its previous level. 
  • Vehicle make and model: Your vehicle’s make and model can have an impact on the cost of your policy. New cars tend to be more expensive to insure than used models. If your car has a salvage or rebuilt title, that can also impact your premium.  

  • Policy details: The type and amount of coverage you want, as well as your deductibles, will impact the cost of your car insurance policy.  

How can I lower my car insurance premiums?

If you think you’re paying too much for car insurance, there are many ways to potentially lower your premium. Here are several ways to save money on your auto insurance policy: 

  • Look for discounts: Most car insurance providers offer discounts to help drivers save money on their policies. While every insurer offers different discounts, you can often find savings for smart students, safe drivers, having certain safety features in your vehicle, taking a defensive driving course, and bundling two or more policies. 
  • Raise your deductibles: Some policies, like collision and comprehensive insurance, have a deductible, which gets subtracted from your payout when you have a claim. Raising your deductible will lower your monthly premium. However, before raising it, make sure you can afford to pay a higher deductible out-of-pocket should you ever need to make a claim. 

  • Review your coverages: If you haven’t reviewed your car insurance policy in a while, you might have coverages you no longer need. Check your policy to see if you can drop coverages or lower your policy limits to save money. 

  • Pay your premium in full: Most car insurance providers will give you a small discount on your policy if you pay your annual premium upfront and in full. 

  • Improve your credit score: Drivers with good credit generally pay lower rates for car insurance than drivers with poor credit. To save money on your auto insurance policy, work on improving your credit. 

  • Shop around: It’s a good idea to shop around and get quotes from a few different insurance companies. That’s the most effective way to find the cheapest car insurance premium for your situation. Get new quotes once per year, after a claim, or after a major life event, like adding a teen driver to your policy.  

Compare top insurance providers to find the right policy at the right price

Personalized results. No phone number or email required.

"*" indicates required fields

Zip Code*
Hidden
Hidden
Hidden
Hidden

How can I switch car insurance providers?

If you find a cheaper car insurance policy from another provider, you should consider switching companies. You can typically switch car insurance companies at any time, even in the middle of your policy period. However, it’s a good idea to contact your current car insurance company to ask about potential cancellation fees you might have to pay. 

The process of switching car insurance companies is usually pretty easy. Purchase the new policy first, then contact your current provider and let them know you’d like to cancel. Buying a new policy first ensures you won’t have a gap in coverage between your new policy’s start date and the old policy’s end date. 

Learn more about switching car insurance companies >

How do I know if I am overpaying for car insurance?

To answer the question, “Am I overpaying for car insurance,” you should compare auto insurance quotes from several different companies. That way, you can easily see which company can offer you the lowest rate for your situation and the type of coverage you want.  

To simplify the process, you can use Rate Retriever to compare car insurance. Fill out the online questionnaire and get matched with top-rated companies in your area.  

About Rate Retriever

At Rate Retriever, our mission is to make the way you shop for insurance transparent and fair through user-friendly tools that respect your privacy and deliver reliable, comprehensive results 

So we took everything we hated about comparing insurance quotes online – the spam, the long questionnaires, the limited choices, the inaccuracy of quote prices – and threw it out the window, favoring a short form that more accurately estimates what you’ll pay at each of the top insurance providers near you. 

Rate Retriever is an independent company that is not owned by an insurance provider, nor do we provide insurance ourselves. This independence allows us to be your free and impartial insurance research tool, helping you make the best decisions for your insurance needs.  

We may earn a commission when you click one of the links or call one of the providers listed on our site; however, we do not allow our partnerships to influence which information we provide. 

Share this article

How to Switch Car Insurance

Switching your car insurance to a different company can be a smart move. Here’s a quick breakdown of how to switch car insurance companies.

Types of Auto Insurance Coverage

Different types of auto insurance coverage cover different costs. It’s important to know what costs your policy covers, so that you’re not blindsided if you’re ever in an accident.