Adding a Teen Driver to Your Car Insurance in Virginia

The short answer

Adding a teen driver to your policy usually increases your premium because they do not have a driving history. You should talk to your agent as soon as your child gets a permit to find out what your specific company requires.

Does adding a teen driver raise my insurance costs?

Yes. Adding a new driver usually costs more money. Insurance companies look at experience when they price a policy. Teen drivers have no history on the road. This makes them a higher risk to insure. Trinity Solutions Insurance Agency in Glen Allen can help you understand these changes.

When do I need to call my insurance agent?

You should call your agent two times. First, call when your teen gets their learner's permit. Some insurance companies want to know about this right away, while others do not. Second, call as soon as your teen earns their full driver's license. Never leave a licensed driver who lives in your home off your policy. This is called hiding a driver. It can lead to problems if you ever need to file a claim.

What are the rules for teen drivers in Virginia?

Virginia has strict laws for new drivers under age 18. These rules include passenger limits and nighttime driving restrictions. These laws help keep teens safe while they learn. Please check with the Virginia DMV website for the current rules. Following these rules is the best way for a new driver to build a clean record.

How can I save money on teen car insurance?

Insurance can be expensive for families with new drivers. Here are ways to lower your costs:

• Ask for a good student discount if your teen gets good grades.
• Look for a driver education discount after your teen finishes a safety course.
• Assign your teen to an older and safer car.
• Ask your agent about driving tracking programs that reward safe habits.
• Keep a clean record by avoiding tickets and accidents.
• Raise your deductibles if you have enough savings to cover the higher amount in an accident. A deductible is the amount you pay out of your own pocket before the insurance company pays for the rest of the repair.

Should I change my liability limits?

Your teen is a new driver. This means your risk of an accident goes up. You might want to carry higher liability limits. Liability insurance helps pay for damage or injuries you cause to others. If you are worried about the cost of a big accident, you may want to look into an umbrella policy. This is extra protection that sits on top of your car insurance. Talk to a licensed agent at Trinity Solutions Insurance Agency to see if this is right for you.

Checklist for adding your teen

1. Call your agent the day your teen gets their learner's permit.
2. Review your current car insurance policy and coverage limits.
3. Ask about discounts for good grades or driver training.
4. Call your agent again when your teen gets their full license.

Common questions

Do I have to list my teen on my policy? Yes. Most companies require you to list every licensed driver living in your home. Can my teen use my car? Your teen can drive your car, but they must be on your policy to be fully protected. What happens if I forget to add them? If a claim happens and your teen was not listed, the insurance company may deny coverage or ask you to pay the back premiums.

What to do next

We are here to help you protect your new driver. You can learn more about our auto insurance options online. If you are ready for a personal quote, please reach out to our team at Trinity Solutions Insurance Agency in Glen Allen today.