Can I get a car loan if I am under 18?

I am 17 and really want a car. Literally all of my friends have one. I have a job, but not enough money to buy anything full-price. Can I get a loan even though I am under 18?

Nick Kunze · Answered on Mar 08, 2023

Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.

If you’re under 18, you won’t be able to get an auto loan.

Consider other ways to get the vehicle you need:

You could raise money to buy the car outright
You could ask a parent or guardian for financial help.
You could ask a parent or guardian to cosign a loan with you.

Once you turn 18, you will be able to get a loan, but it may be difficult. Lenders like to see steady employment and credit history, neither of which you’re likely to have at 18 years old.

Once you manage to precure your much-needed wheels, remember that you will also need to find the right car insurance. Use insurance broker Jerry to compare quotes and receive personalized recommendations. Sign up is free and takes less than a minute.

MORE: 12 best used cars for first-time drivers

View full answer

WHY YOU CAN TRUST JERRY

Jerry partners with more than 50 insurance companies, but our content is independently researched, written, and fact-checked by our team of editors and agents. We aren’t paid for reviews or other content.

Browse More Content

Car Repair Resources

Insurance for Your Car

Insurance in Your State

Insurance In Your City

What Others Are Asking

Where is the 1991 Jeep Cherokee OBD port location?

I’ve inherited an old Jeep from my dad and it needs some fixing up, but I have no idea what I’m doing with an older car like this. Can you tell me where to find the OBD port on a 1991 Jeep Cherokee?

Where is the 1994 Toyota Celica OBD port location?

I want to diagnose an old 1994 Toyota Celica so that I can figure out what replacement parts I’ll need for repairs. Problem is, I can’t find the plug for the OBD code reader. Where is it?

What should I do if my 1995 Ford Ranger dome light stays on?

I keep draining the battery in my truck because sometimes the dome light gets stuck on—even if the vehicle is off and the doors are shut. What should I do if my 1995 Ford Ranger dome light stays on?

Browse All Questions

Read Advice From Car Experts At Jerry

How Allstate’s Accident Forgiveness Actually Works

Allstate’s optional accident forgiveness coverage waives the typical surcharge on your premium after your first at-fault accident.

Is Your License Suspended Immediately After a DUI?

Each state’s policies on license suspension following a DUI arrest varies, but you may face a suspension between 10 and 40 days after your arrest date.

How Farmers Accident Forgiveness Actually Works

Not every Farmers customer qualifies for accident forgiveness—and those that do must still pay for this perk.

Kathryn Kurlychek

Easiest way to compare and buy car insurance

No long forms

No spam or unwanted phone calls

Quotes from top insurance companies

Find insurance savings — it's 100% free

Car Insurance by Make

Car Insurance by State

Compare Free Quotes (& Save Hundreds per Year!)

Jerry automatically shops for your insurance before every renewal. Members save $872/year.

Close Signup Banner