Car Insurance for Teens

Cheap car insurance for teens made easy!

As a teenager, getting behind the wheel brings newfound freedom and independence. However, it is a great responsibility, especially the car insurance. Every teen driver and their parents must understand the ins and outs of car insurance for teens.

The insurance process for teenagers could be a bit stressful and cost more than regular auto insurance. However, we have devised all the important information to simplify the process.

Legal concerns associated with Teens car insurance

UK law requires you to have insurance as soon as you hit the road. Teens auto insurance is specified for youngsters between the ages of 16 to 18.

While training with a recognized driving school, insurance is provided by the driving school if a certified instructor is present. However, the situation changes when you are taking private lessons or learning from a family member. In these scenarios, getting learner driver insurance is mandatory.

What types of insurance are available for teen drivers?

As a teenager or parent, you may tend to go for Third-party insurance. Although it is the cheapest one, we recommend you get fully comprehensive insurance for teens.

Adding Teenagers to Existing Insurance Policy:

Adding a teenager to an existing policy is often cheaper than purchasing a separate policy. It is also easier to manage one policy because it simplifies the work. However, it results in higher premiums due to perceived higher risk. Accidents or violations by the new driver can increase the household’s rates.

Third-Party Only Insurance:

Third-party car insurance is the minimum legal requirement for teen drivers. It covers damages and injuries caused to other people, vehicles, and property in an accident where you’re at fault. However, it doesn’t cover damages to your car or personal injuries.

Third Party, Fire and Theft Insurance:

Third-party, Fire and Theft insurance offers the same coverage as third-party-only insurance. It also protects against fire damage and theft of your vehicle. While it provides more comprehensive coverage, it still doesn’t cover damages to your vehicle in accidents.

Fully Comprehensive Insurance:

Fully comprehensive insurance provides the cheapest car insurance for teens. It covers damages to your vehicle, as well as third-party damages, fire, and theft. It’s the most expensive option but offers greater peace of mind and financial protection for teen drivers on the road.

Is it possible for Teens to get temporary insurance?

Yes, teens can often obtain temporary car insurance. The duration typically ranges from one day to several months. The advantage of temporary insurance is its flexibility which allows coverage for short periods. It is cost-effective if you are an occasional driver, borrowing a friend’s car or driving during school breaks.

However, temporary insurance tends to be more expensive per day compared to annual policies. Additionally, coverage may have limited options for add-ons and higher deductibles. All of these make it less suitable for regular or primary drivers.

Teens can also get short-term learner driver insurance to cover the practice sessions in a friend or family car before they have their full license.

How much does teen car insurance cost?

The cost of car insurance for young adults depends on the driver’s age, driving experience, type of vehicle, and location. One of the most important factors is the duration since the driver obtained their full UK driving license after passing the test.

In the UK, the average cost of car insurance for a 17-year-old falls between £1,423, to £2,877. Whereas teenage car insurance’s average cost per month for 18-year-old drivers is £3,162.

Why is car insurance so high for teenagers?

Teenagers are more likely to be involved in accidents due to a lack of driving experience. According to research by the Association of British Insurers (ABI), drivers aged 17-24 are three times more likely to be involved in car accidents than those over 25.

Insurance companies view young drivers as a greater liability, leading to higher premiums to offset potential costs. Additionally, the type of vehicle driven and location can also influence insurance rates for teenagers.

How can teenagers get cheaper car insurance?

Follow the below steps to secure cheap car insurance for teens.

1- Add an experienced named Driver

Add an experienced drive in your policy to potentially lower premiums. Register your parent or guardian as the primary driver. Insurers often perceive less risk when an experienced driver is listed on the policy.

2- Search for Discounts

Many insurance providers offer different discounts on teen policies. Car insurance for student drivers depends on good grades and recognized driver education courses. Teen drivers can capitalize on these discounts to lower their premiums.

3- Upgrade your driving skills with Pass Plus

Pass Plus offers advanced driving courses in the UK. These courses build up your driving skills and safety awareness. Pass Plus helps you improve your overall driving competence. Experienced teens are also eligible for discounts from insurance companies.

4- Consider Telematics Insurance

Telematics or black box insurance policies monitor your driving behaviour. Insurers install special devices installed in the car. Responsible driving behaviour will result in lower premiums. The insurance provider keeps track of smooth acceleration, adherence to speed limits, and gentle braking.

5- Choose a Fully comprehensive cover

Fully comprehensive insurance for teens offers better value for money. Comprehensive policies provide the most extensive coverage. It covers a wide range of risks, including car damage, personal injury, and third-party liability.

6- Choose the right car

Cars with smaller engine sizes, good security, and a lower risk of theft are the best for teenagers. Insurers typically categorize cars based on engine size, model, value, and security features. Lower-risk vehicles have lower costs of young drivers’ insurance.

7- Don’t Modify your car

Modifying a vehicle can increase insurance premiums. Installing aftermarket spoilers, alloy wheels, or engine enhancements increases its value. Expensive modifications increase the risk of theft, vandalism, or accidents.

8- Reduce your Annual Mileage

Try to accurately estimate your annual mileage. You can also reduce or control your annual mileage to reduce insurance costs. Lower mileage equates to lower risk in the eyes of insurers.

9- Boost your Excess

Excess is the amount you’ll pay towards the cost of an insurance claim. Increased excess can lead to lower insurance premiums. However, make sure that you can afford whatever excess you agree to.

10- Get insured when needed

To avoid unnecessary expenses, get your car insurance when needed. For instance, you may not need your car for an extended period, such as during vacations. In this situation, opt for temporary suspension or cancellation of insurance coverage.

11- Park at a safe place

The insurance company asks about the location where you park your car. A driveway or garage is safer than the road. A secure place reduces the risk of theft and vandalism, which potentially lowers teenage auto insurance costs.

12- Compare Quotes

Shop around online and compare quotes from multiple insurance providers. Each insurer uses its pricing algorithms and may offer different discounts. Comparing quotes allows you to choose the most competitive price.

How to choose the right car for teenagers?

By owning a car, teenagers can practice more before passing the test. It also helps you secure the best car insurance for teenage drivers and build up a no-claim bonus.

• Teens’ cars must have proper safety features to reduce the risk of loss.
• Cars that fall in the low insurance group.
• Opt for cars with smaller engine sizes. They have lower insurance premiums due to reduced risk.
• A reliable make and model minimize repair costs and potential insurance claims
• Luxury and sports cars attract thieves and are costly to repair.

What are the cheapest cars to insure for teenagers?

• Hyundai i10
• Citroen C1
• Fiat 500
• Volkswagen Polo
• Volkswagen UP
• Fiat Panda
• Ford Fiesta
• Kia Picanto
• Ford KA
• Kia Rio
• Toyota Aygo

What do you need to get insurance quotes for teenage drivers?

1. Driver’s name, date of birth, address, and contact information.
2. Your driving history, including driving lessons, permits held or accidents.
3. Vehicle make model, year, and vehicle identification number (VIN).
4. Driver’s license number, date of issuance, and any endorsements or restrictions.
5. Any additional drivers who will be included in the policy, such as parents or guardians.
6. Desired coverage types and limits, including liability, collision, and comprehensive.
7. Purpose of your driving and expected mileage per year.

How to compare teen driver car insurance?

With the right info in hand, you can use reliable tools to compare car insurance quotes. We at Quoteradar help you compare car insurance deals based on monthly and yearly costs, coverage details, and claim excess. Choose your policy that is affordable and best suits your needs. The aim? Finding the best insurance companies for teenage drivers that provide enough coverage.

Don’t get fooled by fake insurers. Check that your insurer and broker (if you have one) are approved by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). Always read through your policy before buying to make sure you’re covered.

Frequently asked questions

Is it cheaper for teen drivers to drive their parents’ cars?

It is more cost-effective for young drivers to be added to their parent’s existing car insurance policy rather than obtaining a separate policy. Individual car insurance for minors tends to be more expensive, reflecting their higher risk due to lack of driving experience.

What other costs are involved in getting my first car?

Other costs include registration and title fees, state taxes, maintenance, fuel expenses, and potentially higher insurance premiums for younger drivers due to increased risk factors.

Is it cheaper to spread the cost of car insurance?

Spreading the cost of car insurance over monthly payments helps with affordable car insurance for teens. Nevertheless, some insurers charge interest for this convenience. Compare the total cost including interest before deciding.

Is black box insurance good for teenage drivers?

Black box insurance tracks driving behaviours such as speed, braking, and time of driving. It allows insurers to tailor the insurance cost to the individual’s driving habits. Safe driving can lead to lower premiums over time, incentivizing responsible behaviour.

What is the cheapest way to insure a teenage driver?

The most economical way to insure a teenage driver is to add them to a family car insurance policy. Selecting a car from a lower insurance group, and a black box policy makes cheap auto insurance for teens.

Can young drivers pay for car insurance in instalments?

Yes, insurance companies frequently offer the option to pay premiums in monthly instalments. This can make insurance more accessible for teenage drivers managing tight budgets. Still, it is important to be aware that this option often includes extra fees.

What’s the cheapest insurance group for teen drivers?

Vehicles in lower insurance groups, particularly groups 1 to 5, are cheaper to insure for new drivers. Cars with smaller engines and less power are lower risk in terms of safety and repair costs.

Can I get added upgrades or additional cover as a young driver?

Young drivers can opt for added upgrades or additional coverage like roadside assistance or legal cover. However, these will increase the overall cost of the insurance.

Why is car insurance so expensive without a no-claims discount?

Car insurance for young drivers tends to be more expensive without a no-claims discount. Insurers consider them higher risk due to a lack of evidence of safe driving history. Building up a no-claims discount over time can help lower premiums.