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Mandy Sleight has over 15 years of insurance knowledge and expertise in auto, home, life, health, pet, supplemental benefits, and other insurance products. She’s a sought-after insurance expert, appearing in Bankrate.com, Moneygeek.com, U.S. News & World Report, Reviews.com, CNET, and other publications, and she's been writing for Compare.com since 2023.
Mandy uses her background and experience working for well-known insurance companies like State Farm and Nationwide Insurance to create engaging and easy-to-understand content that helps readers make smarter insurance choices that have a positive effect on their budgets and finances.
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3+ years editing insurance content
10+ years in content creation
Lequita's extensive editorial experience spans insurance, personal finance, higher education, and more.
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Triple-I's media relations director
20+ years in insurance
Mark serves as a national spokesman for Triple-I. An insurance expert, he's an impartial, independent reviewer for Compare.
Updated
Car insurance costs are generally more expensive for high school and college students. Insurance companies typically charge higher rates for student drivers due to their age and higher accident risk.
Fortunately, you can still find affordable options by comparing quotes, maintaining good grades, and taking advantage of student discounts. Use this guide to learn how student car insurance works, which insurers offer the best deals, and how to lower your premiums without losing the coverage you need.
Young student drivers with their own policy pay an average of $188 per month for liability-only coverage and $347 per month for full coverage.
Nationwide, COUNTRY Financial, and State Farm are some of the best car insurance companies for students.
Maintaining a high GPA, completing a driver’s education course, and bundling policies can help lower your insurance costs.
Car insurance companies use different underwriting formulas to calculate rates, which is why the same coverage can cost more or less depending on the insurer. That’s why it’s so important to compare multiple quotes before choosing a policy to get the best deal. Many insurers offer student discounts, which can help offset higher rates for younger drivers.
Check out the table below to see which companies offer the cheapest rates for high school and young college students with their own policy, according to Compare.com data.
Company | Average Monthly Premium |
|---|---|
| Country Financial | $82 |
| USAA | $124 |
| Root | $135 |
| State Farm | $144 |
| Auto-Owners | $151 |
| Erie | $155 |
| GEICO | $169 |
| Clearcover | $178 |
| American Family | $182 |
| Dairyland | $195 |
| GAINSCO | $196 |
| The General | $203 |
| Commonwealth Casualty | $207 |
| Mile Auto | $221 |
| Safeco | $221 |
| Bristol West | $224 |
| Mercury | $232 |
| Elephant | $232 |
| Plymouth Rock | $237 |
| National General | $242 |
| Direct Auto | $243 |
| Liberty Mutual | $254 |
| Farmers | $278 |
| Travelers | $283 |
| Anchor | $288 |
| 21st Century | $302 |
| AssuranceAmerica | $321 |
| Chubb | $349 |
| Shelter | $370 |
| The Hartford | $517 |
| Amica | $551 |
| State Auto | $583 |
| CSAA | $801 |
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Car insurance for students is similar to coverage for other drivers, but the rules can change for young drivers heading off to college. Whether you’re taking your car to campus, leaving it at home, or sharing a family policy, you should understand how auto insurance works in each situation.
Let’s take a look at different scenarios, so you can make the right choice before hitting the road.
How car insurance works when you go off to college depends on a few factors:
Who the car is titled to
If you’re taking a car with you to college
Whether you’re living on campus
Where the vehicle will be when not in use
If the car is in your parents’ name, stays with them, and you keep your primary residence at their home, your insurance can stay the same.
But if you’re taking the car with you, let your insurance company know where you’ll park the vehicle to ensure coverage if you have to file a claim while at school.
Many colleges have several transportation options, like buses, bikes, and ridesharing services, so taking a car with you might not be necessary. Discuss your options with your parents and insurance agent to find the best solution.
If you’re not taking your car to school in another state and it’s staying with your parents, your auto insurance doesn’t have to change. In fact, if your college is 100 miles or more away from your home, your parents might even qualify for a student away at school discount. Plus, the policy will still cover you while you drive when you’re home.
But if you take the car to another state, make sure to notify your current insurer of this location change.
If you’re not taking a car and you don’t have a vehicle in your name, it usually makes sense to stay on your parents’ car insurance policy. It’s also usually the cheapest option.
But every state has different insurance rules, so it’s best to speak with your insurance company or agent to determine your best option.
Parents of young student drivers can expect to pay about $188 per month for liability insurance and $347 for full coverage. That’s around 75% or more than what a driver in their 40s typically pays for the same coverage.
Though liability-only insurance is cheaper, it doesn’t include comprehensive and collision coverage for vehicle damage like full coverage does.
The map below shows average rates in each state for high school and young college students, according to Compare.com data.
State | Average Monthly Premium |
|---|---|
| Alabama | $132 |
| Arizona | $207 |
| Arkansas | $136 |
| California | $174 |
| Colorado | $172 |
| Connecticut | $273 |
| Delaware | $250 |
| Florida | $233 |
| Georgia | $273 |
| Idaho | $135 |
| Illinois | $174 |
| Indiana | $137 |
| Iowa | $99 |
| Kansas | $140 |
| Kentucky | $204 |
| Louisiana | $184 |
| Maine | $176 |
| Maryland | $264 |
| Massachusetts | $180 |
| Michigan | $209 |
| Minnesota | $175 |
| Mississippi | $134 |
| Missouri | $160 |
| Montana | $95 |
| Nebraska | $139 |
| Nevada | $282 |
| New Hampshire | $131 |
| New Jersey | $311 |
| New Mexico | $131 |
| New York | $186 |
| North Carolina | $117 |
| North Dakota | $119 |
| Ohio | $148 |
| Oklahoma | $147 |
| Oregon | $171 |
| Pennsylvania | $156 |
| Rhode Island | $302 |
| South Carolina | $277 |
| South Dakota | $108 |
| Tennessee | $131 |
| Texas | $230 |
| Utah | $182 |
| Vermont | $134 |
| Virginia | $215 |
| Washington | $190 |
| District of Columbia | $232 |
| West Virginia | $159 |
| Wisconsin | $104 |
| Wyoming | $113 |
Comparing quotes saves drivers up to $867.*
Car insurance costs more for students because young drivers take more risks on the road and are statistically more likely to get into accidents. Drivers younger than 25 are at the highest risk of serious crashes — especially with other vehicles, or fixed objects, like guardrails and buildings.
In fact, the 15-to-24 age group has the highest fatality rate in these types of collisions, with 5.9 deaths per 100,000 people.[1] All other age groups combined are a little more than half of that number (3.4). Drivers aged 20 and younger are also about four times more likely to get into an accident than older drivers.[2]
Because of these risks, insurance companies charge higher premiums to cover younger, inexperienced drivers. Luckily, you have multiple ways to lower your rate.
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Students may pay higher car insurance rates, but they can also qualify for plenty of discounts that can add up to serious savings. You can also stack most discounts to maximize how much you save. The exact savings and eligibility rules can vary by age, driving record, location, and insurer.
Here are some student discounts you might be able to take advantage of.
If you keep a high GPA, you could save between 10% and 35% on your auto insurance. Most insurers offer a good student discount if you’re a full-time high school or college student with at least a B average (3.0 GPA) or are on the dean’s list or honor roll.
If you go to college over 100 miles away from home without a car, you could qualify for a student away at school discount. Since you’re driving less frequently, your risk of accidents drops, and your insurer will usually reward you with a premium discount.
Completing a defensive driver course or driver’s education course shows insurers you’re committed to safety. Many companies offer 5%–15% off your premiums if you complete a state-approved program. You’ll also improve your driving skills and lower your risk of future moving violations and at-fault accidents.
Students can also qualify for other car insurance discounts, even if they’re not student-specific. For example, you can get an accident-free discount for having a clean driving record, and save up to 40% by allowing your insurance company to track your driving habits.
Other discounts include a multi-car discount for insuring more than one vehicle and a multi-policy discount for insuring another policy, like your home or renters insurance, with the same insurer.
If you’re unsure where to look to get car insurance quotes, here are our picks for the best car insurance companies for students.
| User Reviews | 3.1 |
|---|
Nationwide's score | Industry average | |
|---|---|---|
| Coverage options | 3.0 | 3.2 |
| Customer service | 3.2 | 3.6 |
| Discounts | 3.0 | 2.9 |
| Policy transparency | 3.0 | 3.1 |
| Value | 3.3 | 2.9 |
Nationwide offers plenty of discounts and features for students.
You can sign up for its SmartRide telematics program, or pay-per-mile car insurance, if you don’t drive far, and accident forgiveness to protect your rates if you cause an accident. Its vanishing deductible feature can also lower your out-of-pocket costs if you get into a crash.
Accident forgiveness available
Telematics savings of up to 40%
Deductible savings available
Average rates may be higher compared to some competitors
Discounts vary by state
Students must qualify for some features
| J.D. Power J.D. Power data measures overall customer satisfaction and claims satisfaction based on a 1,000-point scale. | 665 |
|---|---|
| Liability Only Liability-only insurance, sometimes called minimum-coverage insurance, pays for bodily injury and property damage to others in an accident the policyholder causes. It does not pay for the insured’s own damages. | $47/mo |
| Full Coverage Full-coverage car insurance generally includes liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage, and may include other optional coverages such as uninsured motorist coverage. Collision covers a policyholder’s repair or replacement costs in case of an accident. Comprehensive covers damages caused by non-accident events. The average quote displayed here reflects policies with the following coverage limits: $50,000 bodily injury liability per person; $100,000 bodily injury liability per accident; $50,00 property damage liability per accident; $1,000 collision deductible; and a $1,000 comprehensive deductible. | $90/mo |
COUNTRY Financial offers impressive savings for students with good grades. Full-time students 25 and younger with a B average can save up to 35%, plus up to 25% more with the DriverIQ program. Additional discounts are available when teens complete driver safety and defensive driving courses, helping you save even more.
Up to 35% off for good students
Below-average premiums for young drivers
Multiple discounts for teen drivers
Coverage only available in 19 states
Customers report mobile app issues[3]
Policies must be purchased through a COUNTRY Financial agent
| User Reviews | 3.9 |
|---|---|
| Our Rating Compare.com's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The objective formula used in these reviews weighs several important factors to consider when choosing financial products and services, including customer satisfaction ratings, ease of use, and a number of other components. | 4.7 /5 |
| Liability Only Liability-only insurance, sometimes called minimum-coverage insurance, pays for bodily injury and property damage to others in an accident the policyholder causes. It does not pay for the insured’s own damages. | $54/mo |
| Full Coverage Full-coverage car insurance generally includes liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage, and may include other optional coverages such as uninsured motorist coverage. Collision covers a policyholder’s repair or replacement costs in case of an accident. Comprehensive covers damages caused by non-accident events. The average quote displayed here reflects policies with the following coverage limits: $50,000 bodily injury liability per person; $100,000 bodily injury liability per accident; $50,00 property damage liability per accident; $1,000 collision deductible; and a $1,000 comprehensive deductible. | $102/mo |
State Farm's score | Industry average | |
|---|---|---|
| Coverage options | 4.4 | 3.2 |
| Customer service | 4.5 | 3.6 |
| Discounts | 4.3 | 2.9 |
| Policy transparency | 4.2 | 3.1 |
| Value | 4.2 | 2.9 |
Customers appreciate the helpful agents and prompt claim handling, but many are unhappy with the constant rate increases, even for safe drivers. Some also reported poor customer service.
Student drivers younger than 25 can save with good student, driver training, and student away at school discounts, plus two telematics programs from State Farm. Its Steer Clear and Drive Safe & Save programs can help you save up to 30% or more, depending on your driving habits.
You’ll need to complete training modules and allow State Farm to track your driving behaviors. Keep in mind that not all discounts are available in every state, and savings aren’t guaranteed.
Two telematics programs
Highly rated mobile experience[4]
Large agent network for personalized service
Doesn’t offer accident forgiveness coverage
Average rates may be higher than some competitors
Gap coverage restricted to customers who have an auto loan through State Farm Bank
Consider your vehicle type, risk tolerance, student’s age, and mileage to determine the right kind of coverage for your student.
For example, if they drive an older vehicle that isn’t worth much, you could save with liability-only coverage. But if they have a newer car, a long commute, or drive in high-traffic areas, collision and comprehensive coverage may be worth the extra cost and financial peace of mind.
You should also review your limits and optional add-ons. If they cause an accident, the other driver could sue you, so it may be a good idea to increase your liability limits to protect your finances. Consider gap insurance if you have a financed or leased car and owe more than it’s worth, and roadside assistance to give them a hand if they get stranded away from home.
Compare quotes and find the policy that best fits your needs.
While student drivers can face high premiums, they have several ways to get cheaper rates on car insurance:
Stay on your parents’ policy. Getting your own policy may be twice as expensive as staying on your parents’ policy.
Choose the right car. Older, safer vehicles typically cost less to insure than new or high-performance models.
Consider pay-per-mile insurance. If you don’t drive much or are leaving a vehicle sitting while away at college, pay-per-mile insurance may be cheaper than a traditional policy.
Bundle policies. Combine auto and home or renters insurance with the same insurer to earn extra savings.
Complete driver training courses. Take a course to improve your driving habits and also lower premiums.
Avoid tickets and accidents. Drivers of all ages get the best rates with a clean driving record.
Doing some homework can help you save on car insurance for high school and college students. Below, we answer the most common questions about student auto insurance.
It depends. The best insurance for students varies depending on your age, driving record, claims history, vehicle, and coverage needs. Comparing at least three insurance companies can help you find the best student car insurance rates.
Yes. College students can stay on their parents’ car insurance in most cases. You might have to get your own policy if the car is in your name or if you establish a permanent address while attending school in another state.
Yes. If you own your car and it has an active registration, but you aren’t bringing it to school, you still need car insurance. You should discuss your options with your agent before canceling your insurance.
If eligible, you can get a student discount on your auto insurance. Insurers offer multiple options, including for good grades, being away at college over 100 miles, and being a part of college organizations.
Car insurance rates for students vary depending on your age, location, coverage level, vehicle type, and driving record. For context, young drivers pay around $188 per month for liability coverage and $347 for full coverage, according to Compare.com data.
Most insurance companies require at least a B average (or 3.0) GPA to qualify for a good student discount. You can usually save between 10% and 35% with good grades and other student-oriented discounts.
Data scientists at Compare.com analyzed more than 50 million real-time auto insurance quotes from more than 75 partner insurers in order to compile the rates and statistics seen in this article. Compare.com’s auto insurance data includes coverage analysis and details on drivers’ vehicles, driving records, insurance histories, and demographic information.
All the rates listed in this article have been collected from a combination of real Compare.com quotes and external insurance rate data gathered in collaboration with Quadrant Information Services. Compare.com uses these observations to provide readers with insights into how auto insurance companies determine their premiums.
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Compare.com's #1 goal is to save you money. We publish resources that are based on hard-hitting data and years of industry experience to help you make more informed decisions with your wallet.
Learn more about us, our team, and what makes us tick.
Mandy Sleight has over 15 years of insurance knowledge and expertise in auto, home, life, health, pet, supplemental benefits, and other insurance products. She’s a sought-after insurance expert, appearing in Bankrate.com, Moneygeek.com, U.S. News & World Report, Reviews.com, CNET, and other publications, and she's been writing for Compare.com since 2023.
Mandy uses her background and experience working for well-known insurance companies like State Farm and Nationwide Insurance to create engaging and easy-to-understand content that helps readers make smarter insurance choices that have a positive effect on their budgets and finances.
3+ years editing insurance content
10+ years in content creation
Lequita's extensive editorial experience spans insurance, personal finance, higher education, and more.
Triple-I's media relations director
20+ years in insurance
Mark serves as a national spokesman for Triple-I. An insurance expert, he's an impartial, independent reviewer for Compare.
At Compare.com, it’s our mission to give you the tools to find the best (and most affordable) insurance for your unique needs and budget. We strive to provide information that’s helpful, clear, and unbiased, and we believe that comparing insurance companies should never put you at risk of spam. Our editorial team — which is made up of experienced writers, editors, insurance agents, and data analysts — has spent thousands of hours researching and creating the coverage overviews, side-by-side comparisons, and detailed reviews you see across our site.
While we make money through partnerships with some of the brands we discuss in our articles, our editorial team operates 100% independently, and these partners never influence or affect the topics, reviews, ratings, or recommendations we provide. We never guarantee favorable reviews or mentions in exchange for compensation from any brands or partners, and we uphold strict editorial standards to ensure our content is always independent, truthful, and unbiased.
