How to Get Car Insurance for 16 Year Olds
Getting car insurance for 16 year olds is almost always very expensive. If your teenage driver has recently gotten their license, it is time to start getting insurance quotes. Teenagers are expensive to insure but by following the tips below you can keep the premiums affordable.
1. Good Student Discount - Most insurance companies offer a good student discount to teenagers that meet their requirements. If your new driver maintains at least a B+ average then you should be offered a discount. The requirements do vary by insurance company so be sure to check with your local agent in regards to their terms and conditions. You will need to present a report card or letter from the principle as proof of the grades.
2. Your Driving History - in addition to your young driver's record, insurance companies will consider your driving record as well when assigning risk to your teenager. If you want to keep your teenagers premium reasonable make sure your record is clean as well. Speeding tickets or accidents will raise the rates of everyone on your insurance, which includes your 16 year old.
3. Older Car - Insuring an older car will be cheaper regardless of who is driving. Making your older vehicle the primary car that your teenager drives will help keep your costs down. Keep the fancy sports car for yourself and let your teenager drive the older sedan. Safety features will also save money so make your agent aware of any features the vehicle may have such as airbags or anti-lock breaks
4. Teenager's Driving Record - It is extremely important that your teenage driver keep their driving record clean. If they receive a speeding ticket or get in an accident you will see your premiums skyrocket. It is a good idea to set boundaries for your young driver and make them aware of the insurance consequences of reckless driving or speeding.
5. Parent's Car - It is best to restrict your teenager to driving your vehicles. If they have saved enough for their own car or you have decided to buy them a vehicle expect the premiums for a vehicle registered in a teenager's name to be much higher. The majority of states will allow a teenager to own and insure their own vehicle but normally the parents or guardians will be required to co-sign the papers.
Handing over your keys to your newly licensed teenager can be scary and insuring them can be even scarier but by following these tips you should be able to keep the costs from spiraling out of control.
