Learning how to drive and getting your driver's license is a huge rite of passage. It's your first taste of mobile independence and it's an exciting, often nerve-wracking time for all new drivers! Between practicing for your driving test and studying for the written test, you've also got to start thinking about some logistics. Are you sharing a car with a family member, or buying or leasing your own? What does that mean for your first auto insurance policy? Don't get overwhelmed - we've got you covered with answers to common questions about auto insurance for new drivers.

Who needs new-driver car insurance?

No matter where you live, you need proof of financial responsibility to drive legally, and a car insurance policy can help ensure you’re meeting your state’s requirements. There’s no special type of coverage available to or required for new drivers, but an insurer will probably see you as a new driver if:

You’re a teenager and just received your first license
You’re an adult who doesn’t have driving experience
You just immigrated to the United States

Your first-time car insurance policy must meet minimum liability requirements where you live. Depending on your financial situation, the vehicle you drive, and if you’re leasing or financing your car, you might also want or need some additional coverage options, like comprehensive coverage or collision coverage.

Do you need insurance to take a driving test?

First things first: you need to pass your various driving tests in order to get behind the wheel! Just like with anything else in life, practice makes perfect. The more comfortable you are behind the wheel, the more confident you'll feel when it's time to master the driving portion. Our recommendation? Take a driver safety course, and drive, drive, drive (with a responsible adult of course)! Experience will help you pass your test, but more importantly, help you practice your safe driving skills.

But before you take your practical driving exam, you need to make sure the vehicle you’re driving has proper insurance coverage. If you don’t have your license yet, there’s a good chance you don’t own a car or have your own insurance policy yet. Don’t worry, though. If you’re using another household or family member’s vehicle with permission, there’s a good chance you’ll be covered under their policy because insurance typically follows the car, not the driver. Just make sure to give the policyholder’s insurer a call to confirm.

Selecting Your First-Time Car Insurance Policy

You can get auto insurance online, over the phone, or in person. The trick is, what insurance company will you choose? There are hundreds, if not thousands, of auto insurance providers across the country. While it may be tempting to call one up at random and ask for their cheapest policy, that may not be in your best interest. Just like no two drivers are the same, no two insurance companies are the same. Choose the best one for your needs by speaking with their representatives (Do they offer great, courteous service?), researching your options (Can you get a roadside assistance plan from them too?), and comparing auto insurance quotes for the same types and levels of coverage.

Direct Auto Insurance can help new drivers find the right starter car insurance coverage. Whether you want the policy that is most affordable or the one that offers the most complete coverage, we have auto insurance options for you! Selecting an auto insurance policy is just as crucial as choosing a car or passing your test, and we're here to help with this important decision.

How much is insurance for a new driver?

Car insurance rates are unique because no two drivers, and their situations, are the same. However, as a new driver, you can generally expect to pay a higher price for coverage than many other drivers on the road. Why? If you recently received your license or don’t have much driving experience, insurers will typically view you as a high risk to insure. Don’t fret, though. If you drive carefully, you should see your rates drop as you gain more experience. In the meantime, keep reading to see how you can save money on your premium today.

Find the cheapest new driver car insurance.

Even if you’re a new driver, you can still find affordable car insurance. In addition to shopping around, you can search for auto insurance discounts you’re entitled to. You might be able to save if you’re a military member, a student making good grades, or a homeowner. You could also see if there’s a driver monitoring program you could sign up for or ask if bundling different insurance products could help you save. Discounts vary from company to company, but there’s a good chance you’ll qualify for something. For example, at Direct Auto, discounts could help you save up to 25% on your premium.

The Cheapest Cars to Insure for a New Driver

There are several factors that help determine how much car insurance costs, including the vehicle you drive. If you drive a new sports car, you’ll probably pay more to insure it than you would to insure a few-year-old sedan with great safety ratings. If you’re interested in specific suggestions, Car and Driver recommends looking for a used vehicle with a slightly lower value, excellent safety ratings, and anti-theft features. Pickup trucks, minivans, and small SUVs often check these boxes.

Direct Auto can help you find new driver car insurance!

If you have more questions about auto coverage and finding cheap car insurance for new drivers, feel free to call us at 1-877-GO-DIRECT (1-877-463-4732) or stop by a Direct Auto location near you.

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