Cheap Auto Insurance for 18-Year-Olds in 2026 (Earn Savings With These 10 Companies

Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about affordable auto insurance for a teenage driver as well as how to get instant auto insurance quotes, so you can compare rates and find the most as an 18-year-old driver.

Teenagers are some of the riskiest drivers to insure. That’s why 18-year-old drivers pay some of the highest rates for car insurance in the United States. (For more information, read our “How much is it to add a teenager to auto insurance?“)

Our Top 10 Company Picks: Cheap Auto Insurance for 18-Year-Olds

How much is car insurance for an 18-year-old? How can you save money on affordable car insurance for an 18-year-old? Want to find the cheapest car insurance for 18-year-old males and females? Use your ZIP in our free tool to start comparing rates for 18-year-old drivers today.

#1 – USAA: Top Overall Pick

Pros

• Lowest Rates: At $88 per month, USAA offers some of the most affordable premiums for young drivers, making it an excellent choice for cheap auto insurance for 18-year-olds. The low cost is attributed to their focus on military families.
• High A.M. Best Ratings: With an A++ rating from A.M. Best, USAA is highly rated for financial strength, ensuring stability and reliability for those seeking cheap auto insurance for 18-year-olds. To find out more, visit our Allstate vs. USAA insurance review.
• Comprehensive Coverage Options: USAA provides a wide range of coverage options tailored to young drivers, including liability, collision, and comprehensive, making it a strong contender for cheap auto insurance for 18-year-olds.

Cons

• Eligibility Restrictions: USAA’s coverage is limited to military families, which excludes non-military young drivers from accessing their cheap auto insurance for 18-year-olds.
• Limited Local Agent Network: With fewer local agents available, it can be challenging for some to receive in-person assistance, which might affect those seeking personalized service for cheap auto insurance for 18-year-olds.

#2 – Geico: Best for Student Discounts

Pros

• Student Discounts: Geico offers substantial discounts for good students, helping to reduce premiums significantly. This makes it a strong option for cheap auto insurance for 18-year-olds who excel academically.
• Strong Mobile App: The Geico mobile app provides a user-friendly platform for managing your policy and filing claims, enhancing the convenience of cheap auto insurance for 18-year-olds.
• Competitive Rates: Geico is known for its affordable rates, including for young drivers. At $107 per month, it remains a leading choice for cheap auto insurance for 18-year-olds.  Visit our Geico insurance review to learn more.

Cons

• Higher Rates in Some States: Geico’s rates can vary, and in some states, they may be higher compared to other providers, which could impact those seeking the cheapest options for auto insurance for 18-year-olds.
• Limited Coverage Options: Geico may offer fewer customization options compared to some competitors, which could limit flexibility for those looking for tailored cheap auto insurance for 18-year-olds.

#3 – State Farm: Best for Customer Service

Pros

• High Customer Satisfaction: State Farm is highly rated for customer satisfaction, providing excellent service which is crucial for young drivers seeking reliable cheap auto insurance for 18-year-olds. Delve more through our State Farm insurance review.
• Good Driver Discounts: Offers discounts for maintaining a clean driving record and good grades, making it an attractive option for cheap auto insurance for 18-year-olds who are diligent about safety and academics.
• Wide Network of Agents: With a large network of local agents, State Farm provides personalized service, which is beneficial for young drivers seeking face-to-face assistance for cheap auto insurance for 18-year-olds.

Cons

• Potentially Higher Rates: The average monthly rate of $125 might be higher compared to some other providers, which could affect those seeking the most affordable cheap auto insurance for 18-year-olds.
• Limited Discounts for Low Mileage: State Farm might not offer as many discounts for low-mileage drivers, which could be a drawback for young drivers with minimal driving.

#4 – Nationwide: Best for Deductible Options

Pros

• Flexible Deductible Options: Nationwide allows drivers to customize their deductibles, which can be adjusted to fit different budgets, helping to manage costs for cheap auto insurance for 18-year-olds.
• Competitive Rates: With a monthly rate of $167, Nationwide provides a competitive option for those seeking affordable coverage. It’s a good choice for cheap auto insurance for 18-year-olds who want flexibility in their policy.
• Strong Multi-Policy Discounts: Offers discounts for bundling multiple types of insurance, which can further reduce costs for cheap auto insurance for 18-year-olds who also need other coverage. See our Nationwide insurance review to read more.

Cons

• Varied Customer Reviews: Some customers report inconsistent service experiences, which may impact those looking for dependable cheap auto insurance for 18-year-olds.
• Higher Premiums in Certain States: Rates can be less competitive in specific regions, affecting those in those areas who seek the most affordable cheap auto insurance for 18-year-olds.

#5 – Metromile: Best for Mobile App

Pros

• Pay-Per-Mile Pricing: Metromile offers a pay-per-mile pricing model, which is ideal for low-mileage drivers, potentially saving money for those seeking cheap auto insurance for 18-year-olds who drive infrequently.
• Innovative Mobile App: Features a comprehensive app for tracking mileage and managing your policy, enhancing the experience for cheap auto insurance for 18-year-olds who prefer digital tools. Find out more info through our Metromile auto insurance review.
• Flexible Payment Options: Allows drivers to pay based on their usage, which can lead to cost savings, making it a suitable choice for cheap auto insurance for 18-year-olds with variable driving habits.

Cons

• Not Ideal for High-Mileage Drivers: Metromile’s model may not be as cost-effective for high-mileage drivers, which could be a limitation for those seeking cheap auto insurance for 18-year-olds who drive frequently.
• Limited Availability: Coverage may not be available in all states, which could restrict access to their cheap auto insurance for 18-year-olds for those outside the service area.

#6 – Allstate: Best for Driving Rewards

Pros

• Safe Driving Rewards: Allstate offers rewards programs for safe driving, which can lead to savings for those seeking cheap auto insurance for 18-year-olds who demonstrate responsible driving habits.
• Robust Mobile App: The app provides comprehensive features for managing policies and tracking driving behavior, supporting users of cheap auto insurance for 18-year-olds in keeping their policies up-to-date.
• Multiple Discounts: Offers a range of discounts, including those for good students and safe drivers, which can help reduce premiums for cheap auto insurance for 18-year-olds. Visit our Allstate insurance review to view more.

Cons

• Higher Premiums: At $223 per month, premiums are on the higher side, which could be a drawback for those specifically looking for the cheapest auto insurance for 18-year-olds.
• Varied Customer Service: Customer service experiences can vary, which may affect the overall satisfaction of those seeking cheap auto insurance for 18-year-olds.

#7 – Farmer: Best for Flexible Coverage

Pros

• Flexible Coverage Options: Farmers provides a range of coverage options and customization, which can be tailored to fit different needs and budgets, supporting those looking for cheap auto insurance for 18-year-olds.
• Strong Customer Service: Known for responsive and helpful customer service, which can enhance the experience of obtaining cheap auto insurance for 18-year-olds. Read more insights through our Farmers auto insurance review.
• Competitive Rates: Offers rates that are competitive, particularly for young drivers with clean records, making it a viable option for cheap auto insurance for 18-year-olds.

Cons

• Higher Rates in Some Areas: The average rate of $271 can be higher in certain regions, which might not be ideal for those specifically seeking the most affordable cheap auto insurance for 18-year-olds.
• Complex Pricing Structure: Farmers’ pricing structure may be more complex, requiring careful review to ensure you get the best deal on cheap auto insurance for 18-year-olds.

#8 – Liberty Mutual: Best for Flexible Discounts

Pros

• Wide Range of Discounts: Liberty Mutual offers various discounts, including those for safe driving and multi-policy bundling, making it easier to find cheap auto insurance for 18-year-olds with additional savings opportunities.
• Customizable Coverage: Provides flexible coverage options that can be tailored to individual needs, which is advantageous for finding cheap auto insurance for 18-year-olds. Check out more info through our Liberty Mutual auto insurance review.
• Good Customer Support: Liberty Mutual generally receives positive feedback for customer service, which can be beneficial for young drivers seeking reliable support with their cheap auto insurance for 18-year-olds.

Cons

• Higher Rates: At $279 per month, Liberty Mutual’s premiums may be higher compared to other providers, which might be a concern for those looking for the cheapest auto insurance for 18-year-olds.
• Fewer Local Agents: With fewer local agents, accessing in-person assistance may be more challenging, which can be a downside for those who prefer face-to-face interactions for their cheap auto insurance for 18-year-olds.

#9 – Progressive: Best for Usage-Based Savings

Pros

• Usage-Based Discounts: Through the Snapshot program, Progressive offers discounts for low-mileage drivers, making it a good choice for those seeking cheap auto insurance for 18-year-olds who drive less frequently.
• Competitive Rates: With a monthly rate of $281, Progressive provides competitive pricing for young drivers, making it a viable option for cheap auto insurance for 18-year-olds.  Here’s our Progressive insurance review to find out more
• Advanced Mobile App: The app includes features for managing policies and tracking driving behavior, which is beneficial for young drivers seeking convenient cheap auto insurance for 18-year-olds.

Cons

• Inconsistent Rates: Progressive’s rates can vary based on location and driving history, which may impact those specifically searching for the cheapest options for auto insurance for 18-year-olds.
• Coverage Limitations: May have fewer extensive coverage options compared to some competitors, which might be a consideration for those needing comprehensive cheap auto insurance for 18-year-olds.

#10 – Travelers: Best for Accident Forgiveness

Pros

• Accident Forgiveness: Travelers offers accident forgiveness, helping to prevent rate increases after a first accident, which is valuable for maintaining affordable rates with cheap auto insurance for 18-year-olds.
• Flexible Payment Options: Provides a range of payment plans, which can help manage monthly expenses effectively for those seeking cheap auto insurance for 18-year-olds.
• Comprehensive Coverage: Offers a wide range of coverage options and benefits, providing flexibility in choosing the right policy for cheap auto insurance for 18-year-olds. Look for more details through our Travelers insurance review.

Cons

• Varied Customer Experience: Customer service experiences can be inconsistent, which might affect overall satisfaction for those seeking cheap auto insurance for 18-year-olds.
• Limited Discounts for Low Mileage: May offer fewer discounts for low-mileage drivers, which could be a drawback for those looking for the most affordable cheap auto insurance for 18-year-olds.

Auto Insurance Rates for an 18-Year-Old

Car insurance is required to legally drive (which we’ll get into later), so if you’re an 18-year-old driver, how much can you expect to pay?

Read through the next few sections to find out more about average car insurance costs for an 18-year-old driver, factors that can affect those rates, and more.

Cheapest Auto Insurance for 18-year-olds

As we noted earlier, the average 18-year-old driver in the United States will pay $88 per month for car insurance. We’ve collected average rates from some of the major insurance companies across the country to give you an idea of some of the most affordable options.

18-Year-Olds Auto Insurance Monthly Rates by Coverage Level & Provider

Location can also have a significant effect on auto insurance quotes for 18-year-old drivers. Every state has its own car insurance system.

Auto Insurance Rates for an 18-year-old Female vs. an 18-year-old Male

Why do 18-year-old males pay more for car insurance? Statistically, young males are some of the riskiest drivers to insure, even if they have a clean driving record. They are more likely to get in an accident than females of the same age.

As you get older, prices drop considerably—especially if you maintain a clean driving record.

A 19-year-old female driver, for example, may pay an average of $88 per month for car insurance, while auto insurance for a 19-year-old male is closer to $89 per month. (For more information, read our “Affordable Auto Insurance Quotes for 19-Year-Olds“).

This is a significant drop in cost (over $100 monthly) in only one month. As you continue into your 20s, rates will drop every year. Read more through our guide titled “Affordable Mini Auto Insurance Quotes.”

Cost of Auto Insurance by State

Yes, the state you live in can really affect your car insurance rates. Some states require drivers to carry a lot of auto insurance coverage, while others only require a minimum amount of coverage.

Some states have notoriously expensive car insurance rates. Drivers in Louisiana pay significantly higher insurance rates than drivers in North Carolina, for example.

Take a look at this table for average insurance rates for 18-year-old drivers in some of the most densely populated states in the country, compared with the cheapest coverage in each state.

These rates are just averages. What you pay may vary, given the number of factors that can affect your rates (as we discussed earlier), but these rates can be used as a baseline as you shop for coverage.

Other Factors that Affect Auto Insurance Rates for 18-Year-Old Drivers

The average 18-year-old driver in the U.S. pays about $88 monthly for car insurance, though rates can vary widely based on several factors. How soon you obtained your license impacts costs, with drivers who started at 16 often paying less than those who waited until 18.

A safe driving history can help lower rates, while accidents will significantly increase them. Speeding tickets and other offenses usually lead to higher insurance premiums, as these drivers are considered riskier.

Taking a driver’s education class can also reduce costs, as many major insurers offer discounts for completing safe driving courses. Additionally, 18-year-olds living at home may save money by being added to their parents’ insurance policy instead of having their own.

Minimum Auto Insurance Coverage Required for 18-year-old Drivers

Individual states set the minimum coverage required for drivers (including 18-year-olds). Most states have a minimum liability coverage amount that must be met to legally drive (this coverage amount applies to all drivers, regardless of age).

You can search this table (populated with information from the Insurance Information Institute) to find out what the minimum coverage requirements are where you live.

Liability Auto Insurance Minimum Coverage Requirements by State

It is important that you at least meet your state’s minimum car insurance requirements. If you don’t, you could be subject to fines, a suspended driver’s license, and possible jail time.

While minimum coverage meets the legal requirements for driving, you should consider whether additional coverage is right for your needs.

Best Auto Insurance for an 18-year-old Driver

Although your state probably has a minimum amount of car insurance required for drivers, it probably isn’t enough.

Adding collision and comprehensive coverage to your 18-year-old’s auto insurance isn’t a bad idea. Statistically, teens will be in an accident at some point, and having extra coverage will be important.

Medical bills and property damage from a car accident can add up fast. Having additional coverage means you won’t have to pay out of pocket for medical bills or car repairs.

Getting Cheap Auto Insurance as an 18-Year-Old Driver

As auto insurance for 18-year-old drivers can be costly, especially in states like Louisiana or Michigan, there are several strategies to lower your rates. Applying for discounts, such as good student discounts which can reduce rates by up to 25%, is one way to save.

Additionally, purchasing a cheaper, older car can decrease insurance costs, and dropping comprehensive and collision coverage on such a vehicle can further reduce expenses.

Taking a defensive driving course can also lower rates by 10-15%. While 18-year-olds can purchase their own policies, it’s often cheaper to be added to a parent’s policy, especially if you’re driving a family vehicle.

Are you ready to buy auto insurance for an 18-year-old? Use your ZIP in our free tool to start comparing rates.