Yes, adding a driver to your car insurance policy will almost always increase your premium. The exact amount depends heavily on the new driver's risk profile, which insurers determine based on factors like their age, driving record, and relationship to you. The increase can be negligible or significant, but it's rare for it to lower your rate.
The primary reason for the increase is that you are now insuring an additional person who will be operating the vehicle. The insurance company is taking on more risk. A young driver, particularly a teenager, will cause the largest premium hike because statistical data from sources like the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) shows they are involved in more accidents. Conversely, adding an experienced driver with a long, clean record might result in a smaller increase.
It's not just about age. A driver with a history of accidents, speeding tickets, or a DUI will be considered high-risk and will substantially increase your costs, regardless of their age. How often the new driver will use the car also matters. If they are a primary driver, the impact is greater than if they are an occasional user.
Here’s a general estimate of potential premium increases based on common scenarios:
| Driver Scenario Added to Policy | Estimated Annual Premium Increase | Key Reasons |
|---|
| Teenage Driver (16-19 years old) | 80% to 150%+ | Inexperience, higher accident risk statistically |
| College Student (on parent's policy, away without car) | 0% to 10% (may qualify for discount) | Low mileage, away at school reduces risk |
| Adult Driver with Clean Record | 10% to 30% | Adds another operator, but low individual risk |
| Driver with At-Fault Accident | 50% to 100%+ | History indicates higher future claim risk |
| Driver with a DUI Conviction | 100% or more (may require SR-22) | Considered extremely high-risk by all insurers |
| Senior Driver (70+ years old) | 10% to 40% | Potential increase due to higher risk associated with age |
The best practice is to always inform your insurer about any new regular driver. Failing to do so is called "material misrepresentation" and could lead to a denied claim or policy cancellation if that driver has an accident. You can mitigate costs by asking about discounts, such as those for good students or safe driving courses for young drivers.
