Yes, a 17-year-old can get car insurance in the United States. However, premiums are typically very high because insurers classify teenage drivers as high-risk due to their lack of driving experience and higher statistical likelihood of accidents. On average, adding a 17-year-old to an existing policy can increase the cost by 50% to 100% compared to rates for drivers over 25.
The cost is influenced by several factors, including the type of vehicle (safer, less powerful cars are cheaper to insure), the driver's location (urban areas often have higher rates), and whether the teen has completed a defensive driving course. One effective way to reduce costs is by exploring discounts, such as the good student discount for maintaining a B average or better, which can lower premiums by 10-15%.
It's also common for young drivers to be added to their parents' policy as an occasional driver, which is usually more affordable than a standalone policy. Shopping around and comparing quotes from multiple insurers is crucial, as rates can vary significantly.
For context, here is a table with supporting data on average annual premiums and common discounts for young drivers:
| Age Group | Average Annual Premium | Common Discount | Discount Impact |
|---|
| 16-year-old | $3,500 | Good Student | Up to 15% reduction |
| 17-year-old | $3,200 | Defensive Driving Course | 5-10% reduction |
| 18-year-old | $2,800 | Multi-car Policy | 10-25% reduction |
| 25-year-old | $1,500 | Safe Driver | 10-20% reduction |
| Teen with Sports Car | $4,500 | Low Mileage | 5-15% reduction |
| Teen with Sedan | $2,800 | Anti-theft Device | 5-10% reduction |
Ultimately, while insurance is accessible, it requires careful planning to manage costs effectively.
