Car Insurance for 22-Year-Olds

Age is one of the major defining factors when rating auto drivers for insurance purposes. Young drivers have less experience driving and tend to be less mature. As a result, insurance companies expect them (based on statistics) to make poor decisions that result in accidents or tickets. This expectation is why getting insurance as a 16-year-old is very expensive, averaging over $4,000 per year, and even higher in some states. The rate decreases yearly and becomes less intimidating once a driver turns 22.

The average annual rate for full coverage for the 22-year-old age group is $2,489, whereas someone in their mid-30s will pay an average of $1,791 per year. However, even though the rates start to level out, they are still well above the national averages of $1,924 for full coverage and $547 for minimum coverage. Factors like ZIP codes, sex, and credit scores also affect the cost of car insurance.

Getting the minimum required coverage can save a 22-year-old money, with the average being only $1,045 per year. Keep in mind that if you financed or leased your vehicles, your lender may require you to carry full coverage. Additionally, full coverage and/or higher liability limits will protect you financially in the event of an accident.

Every insurance company is different when it comes to price. A few companies have better rates when it comes to 22-year-olds. The cheapest insurance companies for a 22-year-old are:

Car insurance rates for 22-year-olds vary by state, and young drivers may find lower premiums depending on where they live.

Hawaii and Massachusetts have some of the lowest rates for 22-year-olds, because state laws prohibit insurance companies from using age as a factor when determining premiums. Eight states have premiums for 22-year-old drivers that follow below $2,000 annually: Hawaii, Massachusetts, Idaho, Ohio, Vermont, Iowa, Washington, and Maine.

At over $4,000 annually, Florida and Louisiana have some of the highest rates in the country for 22-year-olds—and some of the highest rates overall, for all age groups.

Here are some steps young drivers looking to save on auto insurance can take:¹

1. Keep a good driving record: It doesn’t matter how old you are; a person with a good driving record will always pay less than someone with a bad one. Insurance companies insure risk, and high risks are more expensive than low risks. Bad drivers are more likely to get into accidents that lead to losses, costing the insurance company money. Keep your driving record free of accidents and tickets to avoid inflated auto insurance rates.
2. Earn good grades: Many 22-year-olds are wrapping up their college educations. A B average or better will help keep insurance costs down for those in school. Most insurance companies offer a good grade discount to college students.²

Comparing quotes allows 22-year-old drivers to get the best car insurance. Here’s how to get the best car insurance:

1. Compare quotes: Shop around and get quotes from multiple insurers to find the best rate. If you were previously insured on a household policy, get a quote from that provider.
2. Consider telematics: Opt for a telematics program to earn discounts based on safe driving habits.
3. Maintain a clean driving record: Avoid accidents and traffic violations to qualify for lower premiums.
4. Choose a higher deductible: A higher deductible can reduce your monthly premium, but be sure you can afford it in case of a claim.
5. Look for discounts: Check for discounts like good student, defensive driving, or bundling with other policies.
6. Drive a safe, affordable car: Vehicles with good safety ratings and lower repair costs often come with cheaper insurance rates.

When drivers reach age 22, their insurance premiums get closer to the national average. Drivers can ensure they get the best rates by shopping quotes among top carriers and keeping clean driving records.