Best Car Insurance for 18-Year-Olds in 2024 (Top 10 Companies)
Get the best car insurance for 18-year-olds with State Farm, USAA, and Progressive. Enjoy tailored rates for teenagers, with State Farm offering up to 15%. Explore how these three companies offer competitive and personalized rates for the unique needs of new and younger drivers.
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Michael Leotta
Insurance Operations Specialist
Michael earned a degree in Business Management degree with an insurance focus, which led to a successful 25-year career in insurance claims operations and support. He possesses a high-level of business acumen across multiple areas of the insurance industry. Over the course of his career, he served in multiple roles supporting claims operations including: Claims Specialist, Claims Trainer, Claim Au...
Insurance Operations Specialist
UPDATED: Jul 6, 2024
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Our partnerships don’t influence our content. Our opinions are our own. To compare quotes from top car companies please enter your ZIP code above to use the free quote tool. The more quotes you compare, the more chances to save.
Editorial Guidelines: We are a free online resource for anyone interested in learning more about auto insurance. Our goal is to be an objective, third-party resource for everything auto insurance related. We update our site regularly, and all content is reviewed by auto insurance experts.
UPDATED: Jul 6, 2024
It’s all about you. We want to help you make the right coverage choices.
Advertiser Disclosure: We strive to help you make confident car insurance decisions. Comparison shopping should be easy. We are not affiliated with any one car insurance company and cannot guarantee quotes from any single company.
Our partnerships don’t influence our content. Our opinions are our own. To compare quotes from top car companies please enter your ZIP code above to use the free quote tool. The more quotes you compare, the more chances to save.
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13,128 reviewsFind the best car insurance for 18-year-olds like State Farm, USAA, and Progressive as top providers for the coverage rates, options, discounts, and customer reviews.
Turning 18 comes with a lot of new responsibilities. In the eyes of the law you’re an adult and are expected to act like one; in many areas you are still treated like a child.
Our Top 10 Company Picks: Best Car Insurance for 18-Year-Old Driver
| Company | Rank | Multi-Policy Discount | Low-Mileage Discount | Best For | Jump to Pros/Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | #1 | 17% | 15% | Many Discounts | State Farm |
 | #2 | 10% | 10% | Military Savings | USAA |
 | #3 | 10% | 30% | Online Convenience | Progressive |
 | #4 | 10% | 30% | Add-on Coverages | Allstate |
 | #5 | 10% | 40% | Usage Discount | Nationwide |
 | #6 | 25% | 10% | Cheap Rates | Geico |
 | #7 | 10% | 10% | Local Agents | Farmers |
 | #8 | 25% | 10% | Customizable Polices | Liberty Mutual |
 | #9 | 13% | 10% | Accident Forgiveness | Travelers |
 | #10 | 20% | 10% | Student Savings | American Family |
As an 18-year-old, car insurance is one of the many areas in which you are penalized just for being young.
Though it is difficult for teens to get cheap car insurance, it’s not impossible.
If you’re in need of insurance, car insurance quotes are just seconds away. Enter your ZIP code and compare quotes from multiple companies right now.
- State Farm, USAA, and Progressive are the top car insurance companies
- Parents can help young drivers by exploring insurance options with youth discounts
- Compare rates, consider coverage and discounts
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#1 – State Farm: Top Overall Pick
Pros
- Wide Range of Discounts: State Farm offers a variety of discounts, including multi-policy, good student, and safe driver discounts.
- Excellent Financial Strength: The company has a strong financial rating (A+) by A.M. Best, indicating reliability.
- Personalized Service: State Farm is known for its extensive network of local agents, providing personalized service.
Cons
- Potentially Higher Rates: Some customers report higher premiums compared to other insurers.
- Limited Online Quotes: Getting detailed quotes online may require interaction with a local agent.
#2 – USAA: Best for Military Savings
Pros
- Military focus: USAA caters to military members and their families, offering specialized coverage and discounts.
- High Customer Satisfaction: Often ranked highly for customer satisfaction, reflecting the company’s commitment to service.
- Competitive Rates: USAA car insurance review is known for providing competitive rates, especially for military personnel.
Cons
- Limited Membership: Only available to military members, veterans, and their families.
- Not Available to the General Public: Non-military individuals cannot access USAA services.
#3 – Progressive: Best for Online Convenience
Pros
- Online Convenience: Progressive is known for its user-friendly website and robust online tools.
- Snapshot Program: Offers a telematics program (Snapshot) that can help safe drivers save on premiums.
- Variety of Discounts: Progressive car insurance review provides various discounts, including multi-policy, safe driver, and online quote discounts.
Cons
- May not be the Cheapest: While competitive, Progressive may not always offer the absolute lowest rates.
- Customer Service Variances: Some customers report inconsistent experiences with customer service.
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#4 – Allstate: Best for Add-on Coverages
Pros
- Wide Range of Coverages: Allstate offers an extensive range of insurance options and add-on coverages.
- Local Agents: Has a network of local agents for personalized service.
- Financial Strength: Allstate car insurance review boasts a strong financial rating (A+), assuring customers of its stability.
Cons
- Higher Premiums: Some customers find Allstate’s premiums to be on the higher side.
- Mixed Customer Service Reviews: Customer service experiences can vary, with some reporting dissatisfaction.
#5 – Nationwide: Best for Usage Discount
Pros
- Member Discounts: Nationwide offers discounts for members of certain organizations and affiliations.
- Vanishing Deductible: Allows customers to reduce their deductible over time by maintaining safe driving habits.
- Bundle Discounts: Encourages customers to bundle multiple policies for additional savings. (Read more: Nationwide Car Insurance Discounts)
Cons
- Limited Local Agents: Some areas may have fewer local agents, impacting personalized service.
- Not the Cheapest Option: While competitive, Nationwide may not always provide the lowest rates.
#6 – Geico: Best for Cheap Rates
Pros
- Affordability: Geico is often recognized for providing competitive and affordable rates.
- Wide Coverage Options: Provides a range of coverage options to suit different needs.
- Strong Financial Rating: As mentioned in our Geico Car Insurance Review, they hold a strong financial rating (A+).
Cons:
- Limited Agent Interaction: Geico primarily operates online, which may not suit those who prefer in-person interactions.
- Discount Variability: The availability of discounts may vary by location.
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#7 – Farmers: Best for Local Agents
Pros
- Local Agents: With a widespread local agents, Farmers car insurance review offers personalized service and assistance to ensure customers receive tailored coverage options.
- Comprehensive Coverage Options: Offers various coverage options and add-ons for comprehensive protection.
- Claim Satisfaction Guarantee: Provides a guarantee for a smooth claims process.
Cons
- Potentially Higher Rates: Some customers report higher premiums compared to other insurers.
- Mixed Customer Service Reviews: Customer service experiences can vary.
#8 – Liberty Mutual: Tailored Policies for Your Unique Needs
Pros
- Customizable Policies: Liberty Mutual allows customers to tailor policies to their specific needs.
- Multi-Policy Discounts: Offers discounts for bundling multiple policies.
- Good Student Discounts: Encourages and rewards good academic performance.
Cons
- Potentially Higher Rates: Some customers find Liberty Mutual’s premiums to be higher. Learn more about their rates in our Liberty Mutual car insurance review.
- Limited Local Agents: Availability of local agents may be limited in certain areas.
#9 – Travelers: Best for Accident Forgiveness
Pros
- Accident forgiveness: Offers accident forgiveness, allowing policyholders to avoid rate increases after their first accident.
- Multiple discounts: Provides a range of discounts, including multi-policy and safe driver discounts.
- Mobile App Features: Travelers’ mobile app offers convenient features for policy management.
Cons
- Potentially Higher Premiums: Some customers may find Travelers’ premiums to be higher. Learn more about their premiums in our Travelers car insurance review.
- Not Available Everywhere: Limited availability in certain regions may affect accessibility.
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#10 – American Family: Best for Student Savings
Pros
- Student Savings: Offers discounts for students, making it attractive for young drivers.
- Personalized Service: Maintains a network of local agents for personalized assistance.
- Bundling Discounts: American Family car insurance encourages customers to bundle multiple policies for savings.
Cons
- Potentially Higher Rates: Some customers report higher premiums compared to other insurers.
- Limited Online Presence: Online quote and policy management options may not be as extensive as some competitors.
Comparing Average Monthly Rates for 18-Year-Old Driver With Top 10 Car Insurance Companies
When it comes to insuring an 18-year-old driver, navigating through the myriad of options is crucial. Let’s delve into the comparison of monthly rates for minimum and full coverage with the best car insurance companies.
Car Insurance for 18-Year-Olds: Monthly Rates by Coverage Level & Provider
| Insurance Company | Minimum Coverage | Full Coverage |
|---|---|---|
| Allstate | $223 | $519 |
| American Family | $178 | $414 |
| Farmers | $271 | $629 |
| Geico | $107 | $254 |
| Liberty Mutual | $279 | $626 |
| Nationwide | $167 | $387 |
| Progressive | $281 | $662 |
| State Farm | $125 | $284 |
| Travelers | $310 | $740 |
| USAA | $88 | $203 |
Among the top choices, State Farm stands out as a reliable choice, offering reasonable rates at $125 for minimum coverage and $284 for full coverage. Following closely, USAA emerges as a standout option, combining affordability with the most competitive rates at $88 for minimum coverage and $203 for full coverage.
State Farm consistently offers the most advantageous rates for 18-year-old drivers, making it the top choice for affordability, comprehensive coverage, and reliable service.
Melanie Musson Published Insurance Expert
As mentioned in our Progressive car insurance review, Progressive also warrants attention by providing comprehensive options at a slightly higher premium, showcasing their commitment to comprehensive coverage for 18-year-old drivers. Considering individual needs, driving habits, and the desired extent of protection is crucial in making an informed decision among these top contenders.
Understanding the Need for Car Insurance
In most states, you must provide proof of car liability insurance when applying for a license or permit. This includes having at least $25,000 per person/$50,000 per occurrence for bodily injury liability coverage and no less than $10,000 in property damage liability. Compare liability insurance in our article called “Compare Liability Car Insurance: Rates, Discounts, & Requirements“.
You may wish to purchase higher coverage limits than these. If you already hold a valid license or permit, check with your state department of motor vehicles to see whether they require additional proof of insurance.
Also, remember that liability insurance is just the minimum. If you want to have your own injuries and repairs to your vehicle covered, you should add collision coverage and comprehensive coverage to your policy. Adding these additional coverages to your policy will increase your car insurance rates, but you’ll be covered for just about every eventuality.
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Average Price of Car Insurance for 18-Year-Olds
How much you pay for car insurance coverage depends on a variety of factors, including your age, gender, credit history, driving record, and location.
However, the average cost of car insurance for an 18-year-old in the U.S. is an annual premium of around $7,000. An 18-year-old male driver will pay a little more than an 18-year-old female driver, as young women are statistically less likely to be in an accident than young men.
Read more:
Empowering 18-Year-Olds: How Parents Can Secure Car Insurance Discounts
It’s very difficult for young adults to get cheap car insurance. Insurance companies see them as risks, and so their policies can be much more expensive than older adults. But there are ways parents can help their children receive discounts on car insurance when they’re old enough to buy it themselves.
Before your children are 18, you can help them prepare to ask for more reasonable insurance rates by teaching them how to drive safely. Tell them all the stupid things you did when you first started to drive and let them learn from your mistakes. (I know, it doesn’t seem like they are listening, but they really do hear you from time to time.)
Talk to your children about why insurance companies have high rates for teen drivers.
Ask them what common distractions cause teens to get in more accidents than older, more experienced drivers. Have them write a list similar to this:
- Cell phones
- Friends in the car
- Music
- Looking in the mirror/grooming
- Eating
By talking to teens about driving safely, you could be saving them money on car insurance when they become of age. Don’t just focus on driving, though. Teach your children the value of having car insurance and of shopping around for it. Tell them what to do in case there is an accident.
Explain how claims work and how to file one. This, too, will make your children more responsible drivers.
Start young. Pre-teens and younger teens are just waiting for the day when they’ll be holding the keys in their hands. Talking about car safety and the impact it has on insurance will better prepare them for when that day comes.
Also, you might be able to save right now if your insurance provider offers good student discounts.
Preparing for Affordable Car Insurance: Tips for Under 18s
Insurance companies offer many discounts to young adults based on their driving records and other less obvious aspects of their lives. A teen driver can put themselves in a better position to receive lower insurance rates by:
- Keeping a clean driving record (safe driving discount)
- Being in good academic standing
- Having a defensive driving course on record
- Proving membership to a club in the community
- Installing safety devices, such as air bags and alarms, in their cars
All these show maturity and might persuade insurers to give an 18-year-old car insurance for a cheaper rate.
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The Art of Saving Money on Car Insurance as an 18-Year-Old Driver
Once you turn 18, there are more ways you can prepare to save on car insurance. Many factors affect how insurers will calculate your premiums. Some are specific to you as a young adult while others are common to all drivers.
- Get a credit card. This can be beneficial when asking for discounts from your insurance company. Maintaining a good credit score shows insurers you are responsible with your money and pay bills on time.
- Compare rates for car models you want to buy. Insurance companies will set prices based on a variety of factors like the car’s worth, potential repairs, and what types of safety devices are installed. If you want to save on car insurance, it is better to buy based on these factors than on how the car looks.
- Insurers offer discounts if you have multiple policies. If you are willing to relinquish some of that independence you probably crave, consider staying on your parents’ insurance policy. It will probably save you money. (For more information, read our “How long can you stay on your parents’ car insurance?“).
By being mindful of these factors and taking proactive steps, you can save money on car insurance with confidence and financial savvy.
Navigating Online Car Insurance: A Guide for 18-Year-Old Drivers
Comparing quotes for car insurance can be a long and tedious task, especially if it’s your first time doing something like it on your own. But this is the best way to find the cheapest car insurance policy. And because you’ve grown up in the age of the Internet, requesting quotes from insurance companies is easier than ever.
Insurers offer free quotes online. By filling out forms on their websites, you can get quotes sent to your email and then compare them. Just make sure you enter exactly the same information on each site to get an accurate comparison.
When you’re looking for quotes, be sure to compare coverage as well as price. Getting cheap car insurance may be your goal, but you don’t want to waste your money on something that won’t help you. Also, be careful about which insurer you choose.
There are many great insurance companies out there, but there are also many others that will charge you a lot for bad service.
Another thing you have to consider is how much you can afford and what payment method is best for you. It’s always better to have the highest deductible that you can because this will lower your monthly premiums. However, you should only get a high deductible if you believe you will have the funds to pay it in the case of an accident.
This is basic information you need to start your search for car insurance as an 18-year-old.
Remember, you can stay on your parents’ policy as long as you want to and they will allow you to. This is generally going to be cheaper than getting your own separate policy.
After you buy a car insurance policy, continue to research discounts and ask your insurance agent about ones that apply to you. Insurers are always developing new discounts and incentives to get more clients, and these can usually be applied to existing policies as well.
You’re an adult and want to be treated as one by receiving car insurance rates that older adults do. Unfortunately, insurance companies won’t give you that luxury until you earn it. But there are ways to save on car insurance policies if you take the time to find them.
Case Studies: Empowering the 18-Year-Old Driver Journey With Best Insurance Providers
Choosing the right provider can make a significant difference in coverage, costs, and overall satisfaction. Let’s explore three case studies showcasing how different insurance providers cater to the distinct needs of younger drivers.
- Case Study #1 – Sarah’s Safe Drive: Sarah, an 18-year-old student, was eager to hit the road. Concerned about high insurance rates, her parents guided her toward State Farm. Sarah learned about State Farm’s good student discount and the benefits of completing a driver’s education course. State Farm provided Sarah with affordable coverage, rewarding her commitment to safe driving. Read our comprehensive State Farm car insurance review to learn more about State Farm.
- Case Study #2 – Military Savings: Jake, freshly enlisted in the military, sought insurance tailored to his unique needs. Turning to USAA, Jake discovered a company dedicated to those who serve. With competitive rates and military-focused discounts, USAA provided Jake with comprehensive coverage, giving him peace of mind as he embarked on his military career.
- Case Study #3 – Online Convenience for Tech-Savvy Teens: Alex, a tech-savvy 18-year-old, valued online convenience. Progressive caught Alex’s attention with its user-friendly website and innovative tools. Exploring the Snapshot program, Alex embraced telematics for potential discounts. Progressive’s commitment to online accessibility and cutting-edge technology aligned with Alex’s preferences, making it the perfect fit for a seamless insurance experience.
These case studies highlight how different insurance providers cater to the varied needs of younger drivers, offering tailored coverage and unique discounts. Whether it’s affordability, military-focused benefits, or innovative technology, there is an insurance provider suited for every young driver’s lifestyle and priorities.
Enter your ZIP code on below to receive free car insurance quotes from multiple companies today.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the average car insurance rates for 18-year-old drivers?
The average rates are $143 per month for boys and $131 per month for girls. These rates may vary based on factors like location, driving history, and the chosen insurance provider.
How can parents help their 18-year-old children get discounts on car insurance?
Parents can play a crucial role by teaching safe driving habits, encouraging completion of driver’s education courses, and emphasizing the importance of maintaining good grades. Many insurers offer discounts for these factors. Get the best discounts in our article called “Car Insurance Discounts: Compare the Best Discounts“.
What steps can 18-year-olds take to get cheap car insurance before they start driving?
Before hitting the road, 18-year-olds can take advantage of discounts by completing driver’s education, maintaining good academic performance, and exploring insurance options that offer discounts for young drivers.
When you’re ready to see how much you can save on your car insurance, enter your ZIP code below into our free comparison tool.
How can 18-year-old drivers save money on car insurance?
Savings can be achieved by comparing quotes from different insurance providers, taking advantage of available discounts (such as good student or safe driver discounts), and considering factors like the type of coverage needed.
How do I choose the right coverage amount for my needs?
Choosing the right coverage depends on your personal circumstances. Consider factors such as the value of your car, your financial situation, and how much you can afford to pay out-of-pocket in the event of an accident. Liability coverage is required by law, but you may want to consider comprehensive and collision coverage for added protection.
What criteria should 18-year-olds consider when finding car insurance quotes online?
When seeking quotes online, 18-year-olds should consider factors such as coverage options, discounts offered, customer reviews, and the ease of online policy management. It’s essential to find a balance between affordability and the desired coverage.
For a more thorough understanding, consult our detailed document entitled “Understanding Your Car Insurance Policy” and check the nuances and intricacies of your coverage.
What is telematics and how can it help me save on car insurance?
Telematics is a technology that uses a device installed in your car to monitor your driving habits, such as speed, braking, and distance traveled. Insurers use this data to assess your driving behavior and may offer discounts for safe driving.
Can I switch insurance companies while under my parents’ policy?
Yes, you can switch insurance companies while under your parents’ policy. However, it is important to coordinate the transition with your parents to ensure there is no lapse in coverage and that both parties agree on the change.
Explore your car insurance options by entering your ZIP code below and finding which companies have the lowest rates.
What should I do if I have an accident as an 18-year-old driver?
In the event of an accident, stay calm and ensure your safety first. Exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver, and document the scene with photos. Report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible and follow their instructions.
Are there any discounts available for 18-year-old drivers beyond good student discounts?
Yes, beyond good student discounts, some insurers offer discounts for safe driving records, participating in telematics programs, and completing driver’s education courses. You may also qualify for discounts if you bundle your auto insurance with other types of insurance, such as renters or homeowners insurance.
For further insights, delve into our extensive guide on auto insurance named “Do all car insurance companies check your driving records?” and explore now for a clearer understanding.
Do you need to have car insurance?
Yes, in most states, you are required to have car insurance to legally drive. It typically includes liability coverage for bodily injury and property damage.
What is the average price of car insurance for an 18-year-old?
The average cost of car insurance for an 18-year-old varies depending on factors such as location, driving history, and the chosen insurance provider. However, it’s generally higher for younger drivers due to their lack of driving experience.
How can parents prepare their 18-year-old children to get discounts on car insurance?
Parents can help their 18-year-old children qualify for discounts by encouraging safe driving habits, promoting completion of driver’s education courses, and emphasizing the importance of maintaining good grades.
What can you do before you’re 18 to get cheap car insurance?
Before turning 18, individuals can take advantage of discounts by completing driver’s education, maintaining good academic performance, and exploring insurance options that offer discounts for young drivers.
How do you save money on car insurance as an 18-year-old driver?
18-year-old drivers can save money on car insurance by comparing quotes from different insurance providers, taking advantage of available discounts (such as good student or safe driver discounts), and considering factors like the type of coverage needed.
How do you find free car insurance quotes online for an 18-year-old driver?
Finding free car insurance quotes online for an 18-year-old driver is simple. Many insurance providers offer free quotes on their websites. By filling out forms with accurate information, you can receive quotes via email and compare them to find the best coverage at the most affordable price.
Free Car Insurance Comparison
Enter your ZIP code below to view companies that have cheap car insurance rates.
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Michael Leotta
Insurance Operations Specialist
Michael earned a degree in Business Management degree with an insurance focus, which led to a successful 25-year career in insurance claims operations and support. He possesses a high-level of business acumen across multiple areas of the insurance industry. Over the course of his career, he served in multiple roles supporting claims operations including: Claims Specialist, Claims Trainer, Claim Au...
Insurance Operations Specialist
Editorial Guidelines: We are a free online resource for anyone interested in learning more about auto insurance. Our goal is to be an objective, third-party resource for everything auto insurance related. We update our site regularly, and all content is reviewed by auto insurance experts.
