Getting your learner’s permit to drive a vehicle is a big day for anyone. Whether you are getting ready to turn 16 or haven’t needed to get a permit yet because you live in a big city, becoming a provisional driver is an important step in life. Practice makes perfect, and you can’t practice without a permit. However, completing this step cannot be accomplished without you being covered by an auto insurance policy. So, the question must be asked, how do I obtain coverage?
If you are a teen driver, you will likely be required to be added to an established driver’s policy. Normally this would be a parent, or legal guardian. If living with a relative like a grandparent or aunt/uncle, check with their insurance company about being added to the policy. Only a handful of insurance companies will sell a car insurance policy to a driver who only has a learner’s permit, and they will usually only write an individual policy for a permitted driver who is over the age of 18. It’s up to you to shop around different insurance companies to discover who has the best policy around and find one that fits your unique needs. While many larger insurance companies may shy away from offering coverage due to the assumed risk of an inexperienced driver, there may be smaller, more local insurance companies with increased flexibility. Never count out the little guy.
When adding a driver with a permit to an existing policy, you may find it useful to shop around as some carriers may have better rates and programs for permitted drivers than others. Just because your current carrier was the right price and fit before, it may not be with your newly permitted driver added. Some companies will have stipulations for actually purchasing and securing the policy. For instance, one requirement might be that the learner will have to obtain a driver’s license within a period of 30 to 45 after buying the policy. This puts pressure on the student to actually learn how to drive in that time period.
As you are shopping for quotes, keep in mind that you should get as much information as possible. Ask questions and compare the different rates. Find out the requirements needed to purchase car insurance with a permit. Each insurance company will be different, but don’t be discouraged. Once you find a car insurance policy that fits your needs, budget, and timeframe, sign the policy and select the start date. This is important because an active policy is required before you can legally drive on your own. Also, be sure to check local laws and requirements about who a permitted driver is allowed to transport based on age and number of passengers.
Keep in mind that getting car insurance with a learner’s permit will likely be more expensive. As you shop for a policy and get quotes, ask about what discounts are available. If you are still in high school, there may be a good student discount. This is a good incentive for both the student and the insurance provider. There are options, so don’t be afraid to ask what you qualify for. The goal is to obtain a policy, but you don’t want to be at the mercy of an insurance company due to your inexperience. That’s why shopping around is so critical while you have your permit or are adding a permitted driver to your policy. Once you receive your license, more doors will open.
Once you obtain your learner’s permit, you may be wanting to purchase your own vehicle. This is another big step in anyone’s life. Buying a car is both exciting and scary. It is, after all, the second biggest investment most people make in their lives. Unfortunately, buying a car with a permit is a bit convoluted. You are required to have insurance before driving a car off the dealership’s lot. Make sure you follow local guidelines and regulations. You can purchase your dream vehicle, but be sure to get the insurance first. And then get your license and finalize registration.
The world of driving is a lot of fun. It doesn’t need to be frightening. There are a lot of resources available to help you on your way. Be patient and remember to put in the work and research. Once you do find the right provider at the right price, you are set. Just always remember what you learned in driver’s education and drive responsibly. With good driving habits and avoiding claim activity on your insurance policy, your rate should only go down over time, especially if you are forced to pay an inflated price at first.
That’s the long answer to the question of, “Can you obtain car insurance with a learner’s permit.”
The good news? SimplyIOA is here to help! Give us a call or chat with us online and we will help you to find the proper coverage for you or your newly permitted driver.