New California Driver Seeking Insurance Advice
I just obtained my driver’s license in the U.S. and need to get auto insurance before I can hit the road. My partner has been driving since age 18 and is now 27, while I’m 33 with little to no driving experience. Their current insurance premium is about $200 a month. We live in California and mostly use public transport for work, only driving on weekends or for errands.
I’ve received online quotes in the range of $600 to $700 per month for both of us. While I expect higher rates due to my inexperience, I want to ensure that this figure isn’t excessively inflated.
Any guidance on what I should realistically expect for our insurance costs would be greatly appreciated! Thanks in advance for your help!
Congratulations on getting your driver’s license! As a new driver in California, it’s common for insurance rates to be higher, especially since you’re just starting out. Based on your situation – a new driver at 33 years old and your partner having more experience – the quotes you’ve received around $600-700/month could be on the higher end, but it’s not unusual given your circumstances.
Here are a few factors that might affect your rates:
New Driver Status: Being a newly licensed driver typically leads to higher premiums.
Location: Insurance rates can vary significantly depending on where you live in California.
Driving history: Your partner’s driving record can help lower the overall rate if they have a clean record.
Coverage levels: The type of coverage you choose (minimum vs. full coverage) will also impact your premiums.
Discounts: Check for any discounts you might qualify for, such as multi-car discounts, safe driver discounts, or usage-based insurance programs.
To potentially lower your rate, consider these options:
As a rough ballpark, many new drivers might see rates anywhere between $300 to $700 a month for a minimum coverage policy, but it can vary widely based on factors mentioned above. It’s definitely worth it to get a few more quotes and explore different options!
Best of luck with your new driving and insurance journey!