How to Save Money on Teen Auto Insurance

Most auto insurance companies consider anyone under the age of 25 to be a high risk driver. When adding your teen to your policy, this can raise your premiums 50 to 100 percent. But don't take your teens car keys just yet. It is possible to insure your teen and get affordable rates if your teenager gives some effort and follows these tips. Maintain a Good Driving Record It just takes one DUI to raise auto insurance rates from a base premium of a few hundred dollars to thousands of dollars a year for at least 3 years. Accidents and traffic violations also have a detrimental effect on your teen's insurance rates. Earn Brownie Points Most car insurance companies give discounts to teens that go to high school or college full time and maintain a good grade point average. Insurance carriers also offer discounts to teens that take accredited drivers safety courses or other certified programs. More information on this can be found online from the National Safety Council. Get Involved in the Community Teens who participate in certain civic or community organizations may get discounts on their auto insurance. Auto insurance companies try to insure teens with the least risk involved, so they reward your teens efforts to better his or her community by giving discounts on their auto insurance rates. Choose a Safe Vehicle You could save up to 50 percent if you choose a safe car for your teen to drive. Newer cars with airbags are the least expensive to carry on your insurance and safer for your teen to drive. Stay away from SUV's, sports cars, and high performance cars unless you are comfortable paying more to insure your teen on your policy. When shopping for a car for your teen, be sure to get quotes for the make and model car you are interested in before buying the vehicle. Add Safety Features Safety features such as air bags and anti-lock brakes can reduce your teens auto insurance rates substantially. Driving is a Privilege Make sure that your teen understands that driving is a privilege and lay down some rules before they ever get behind the wheel. By doing this, you can help your teen get behind the wheel with a more mature attitude. This will translate into safer driving habits and lower rates for your teen.