Young drivers (ages 16–25) usually pay higher premiums because they have less driving experience. However, several insurers consistently offer affordable rates.
| Insurance Company | Best For | Estimated Monthly Rate* |
|---|---|---|
| GEICO | Teen & college students | From $206 (16-year-olds on a family policy) (MoneyGeek.com) |
| State Farm | New drivers under 25 | From $141 (LendingTree) |
| Progressive | 20-year-old drivers | Around $313 for full coverage (NerdWallet) |
| Travelers | Young adults | Among the lowest average rates (The Zebra) |
| Country Financial | Overall cheapest average | From $59 in some driver profiles (Compare.com) |
| USAA | Military members & families | Very competitive rates (eligibility required) (The Wall Street Journal) |
*Actual premiums vary by state, age, vehicle, driving record, and coverage level.
Best Cheap Insurance by Driver Type
- 16–18 years old: GEICO or Country Financial (MoneyGeek.com)
- College students: GEICO (good student discounts available) (Experian)
- New drivers under 25: State Farm (LendingTree)
- Military families: USAA (The Wall Street Journal)
- Drivers with a clean record: Progressive or Travelers (NerdWallet)
Ways Young Drivers Can Save Money
- Stay on your parents’ policy if possible—this is often much cheaper than buying a separate policy. (MoneyGeek.com)
- Maintain a good GPA to qualify for good student discounts. (Experian)
- Complete a defensive driving course if your insurer offers a discount. (Compare.com)
- Choose a vehicle with lower insurance costs.
- Compare quotes from multiple insurers every year.
- Consider a usage-based (telematics) program if you are a safe driver.
Bottom Line
For most young drivers in the U.S., GEICO, State Farm, Progressive, Travelers, and Country Financial offer some of the most affordable coverage. If you’re eligible, USAA is often one of the best-value choices for military members and their families. Comparing quotes from several companies is still the best way to find the lowest premium for your specific situation.