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Can I get car insurance as a 17-year-old?

I'm 17 and just bought my first car. I know I need insurance to be able to legally drive, but as a minor, I'm not sure I'm able to apply for it. Can I get car insurance at my age?

avatar
Eric Schad · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
You can get
car insurance
at 17 if you have a parent or guardian who will sign the policy with you. Most states also allow legally emancipated teens to purchase their own car insurance.
Here are a few things to keep in mind when buying car insurance as a minor:
  • Contractual age restrictions: While some states list 17 as their age of majority, no one under 18 can enter into a contractual agreement in the US without a parent or guardian’s consent—no matter where they live.
  • Registration restrictions: You’ll also need a parent’s or guardian’s signature to
    register your vehicle
    in most states. Once you turn 18 (or 19 if you live in Nebraska or Alabama), you can both register your vehicle on your own and purchase insurance on your own.
  • Car insurance rates for teens: The average price of car insurance for a 17-year-old is over $5,500 per year. Few 17-year-olds can afford that type of money, so you may want to ask your parents or guardians if they’ll add you to their policy. 
No matter what you decide, to make sure you have the best coverage at the best price, do your shopping with the free
Jerry
app. Our experts will make sure you get to take advantage of money-saving extras like good student discounts, and multi-car discounts if you’re being added to someone else’s policy.
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