Best Car Insurance for New Drivers in New York (2026)
Progressive, GEICO, and State Farm offer the best insurance for new drivers in New York.
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Written byAlani Asis
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Alani AsisFreelance Personal Finance and Insurance Writer
4-plus years of insurance writing
Bylines in top personal finance publications
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Edited bySara Getman
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Sara GetmanAssociate Editor
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Reviewed byJohn Leach
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John LeachLicensed P&C Agent, Chief Copy Editor
Licensed property and casualty insurance agent
10+ years editing experience
NPN: 20461358
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If you’re a new driver looking for the best car insurance in New York, Progressive and GEICO offer both affordable rates and a range of coverage options. The average cost of car insurance for new drivers in New York is $285 per month, but your insurance rates will vary based on individual factors like your ZIP code, gender, and more.
Here’s how to find affordable rates for new drivers in New York.
Quick Facts
New drivers pay an average of $221 per month for liability coverage and $350 for full coverage.
New York requires all drivers to carry bodily injury liability, property damage liability, personal injury protection, and uninsured motorist coverage.
Good student, student away from home, and good driver discounts can help you get cheaper car insurance as a new driver.
Best car insurance for new drivers in New York
The cost of car insurance isn’t the same for every new driver. For example, a 25-year-old may qualify for lower rates than a teenager, even if they’re both first-time drivers.[1] No matter how old you are, you can still get cheap car insurance without sacrificing coverage. A good way to do this is by comparing insurance companies. Here are some of the best companies for new drivers in New York to help you get started.
Progressive: Best for value
| JD Power J.D. Power data measures overall customer satisfaction and claims satisfaction based on a 1,000-point scale. | 622 |
|---|---|
| IQ Score The Insurify Quality (IQ) Score uses more than 15 criteria to objectively rate insurance companies on a one-to-ten scale. The Insurify editorial team researches insurer data to determine the final scores. | 8.7 /10 |
| Liability Only Liability-only insurance, sometimes called minimum-coverage insurance, pays for bodily injury and property damage to others in an accident the policyholder causes. It does not pay for the insured’s own damages. | $82/mo |
| Full Coverage Full-coverage car insurance generally includes liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage, and may include other optional coverages such as uninsured motorist coverage. Collision covers a policyholder’s repair or replacement costs in case of an accident. Comprehensive covers damages caused by non-accident events. The average quote displayed here reflects policies with the following coverage limits: $50,000 bodily injury liability per person; $100,000 bodily injury liability per accident; $50,00 property damage liability per accident; $1,000 collision deductible; and a $1,000 comprehensive deductible. | $142/mo |
How drivers feel about Progressive
Customers appreciate the insurer’s good customer service and initial affordability but dislike the consistent price increases and complex claims process.
Based on analysis of verified reviews collected by Insurify
Best For
Showing recent national reviewsSee all 8,554 Progressive reviews
Verified Review
Reviewed in New York on May 31, 2026
I had my first claim in sixty-five years for under $1,000. What I went through was unbelievable. I bet I spoke with five or more agents to try and settle my claim. I finally said I was getting a lawyer, and they paid me. It went on for two months. I will never use them again and am switching companies.
Verified Review
Reviewed in Pennsylvania on May 30, 2026
Coverage is good, but you have to use the internet to get less expensive coverage.
Verified Review
Reviewed in Texas on May 30, 2026
After several years with Progressive and achieving a supposed "Platinum" customer status along with having zero claims, they are dragging their feet on paying a simple windshield glass claim and fighting paying for an OEM windshield for my top-of-the-line Honda CR-V that’s less than 3 years old. I’m ready to ditch them and switch to a company that takes care of their best customers.
NAIC Index
Average amount of customer complaints relative to competitors on a 0-5 scale. A lower score represents fewer complaints.
0.97
A.M. Best
A.M. Best analyzes an insurer’s financials, operating performance, business profile, and other factors to generate an opinion-based rating of a company’s financial and credit strength. Ratings range from A++ (exceptional) to D (poor).
A+
Why we picked this company
If you’re a new driver in the Big Apple, you may gravitate toward Progressive for its affordability with comprehensive coverage. To save money, members can use its “Name Your Price” tool and the pay-as-you-go program, Snapshot. Your policy also includes accident forgiveness, which can be a valuable coverage for new drivers.
Pros
Multiple ways to save money
Extensive list of coverage options
Comprehensive accident forgiveness program
Cons
Negative reviews on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website
Below-average J.D. Power rating for customer satisfaction in New York
Below-average J.D. Power rating for claims satisfaction
GEICO: Best for affordability
| User Reviews | 4.0 |
|---|---|
| IQ Score The Insurify Quality (IQ) Score uses more than 15 criteria to objectively rate insurance companies on a one-to-ten scale. The Insurify editorial team researches insurer data to determine the final scores. | 9.2 /10 |
| Liability Only Liability-only insurance, sometimes called minimum-coverage insurance, pays for bodily injury and property damage to others in an accident the policyholder causes. It does not pay for the insured’s own damages. | $80/mo |
| Full Coverage Full-coverage car insurance generally includes liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage, and may include other optional coverages such as uninsured motorist coverage. Collision covers a policyholder’s repair or replacement costs in case of an accident. Comprehensive covers damages caused by non-accident events. The average quote displayed here reflects policies with the following coverage limits: $50,000 bodily injury liability per person; $100,000 bodily injury liability per accident; $50,00 property damage liability per accident; $1,000 collision deductible; and a $1,000 comprehensive deductible. | $147/mo |
4.0
Best choiceBased on 18,432 verified driver reviews and ratings
GEICO's score | Industry average | |
|---|---|---|
| Coverage options | 4.0 | 3.2 |
| Customer service | 4.1 | 3.6 |
| Discounts | 3.9 | 2.9 |
| Policy transparency | 3.9 | 3.1 |
| Value | 3.8 | 2.9 |
How drivers feel about GEICO
Customers appreciate the reliability and customer service but find the rates to be high and increase frequently, even without claims or accidents. The app has improved, but some find the claims process lacking.
Based on analysis of verified reviews collected by Insurify
Best For
Showing recent national reviewsSee all 7,773 GEICO reviews
Verified Review
Reviewed in Colorado on May 31, 2026
Very high priced and increases every year regardless of claims or lack thereof. Claims are okay, but all else could improve greatly.
Verified Review
Reviewed in New York on May 31, 2026
Very affordable.
Verified Review
Reviewed in Florida on May 29, 2026
I’ve had a positive experience with Geico's customer service over the years, as they have always been helpful. However, I’m switching providers because I found a competitor offering more coverage for a better price. While the service is great, I feel their monetary value could definitely be better.
JD Power
J.D. Power data measures overall customer satisfaction and claims satisfaction based on a 1,000-point scale.
637
NAIC Index
Average amount of customer complaints relative to competitors on a 0-5 scale. A lower score represents fewer complaints.
0.59
A.M. Best
A.M. Best analyzes an insurer’s financials, operating performance, business profile, and other factors to generate an opinion-based rating of a company’s financial and credit strength. Ratings range from A++ (exceptional) to D (poor).
A++
Why we picked this company
New York’s traffic, unpredictable weather, and high repair costs can make finding budget-friendly insurance coverage challenging. GEICO offers a transparent list of all its discounts and how much you could save, including a 15% good student discount. If you’re a new driver who prioritizes saving money, you may like GEICO.
Pros
Multi-vehicle discount of up to 25%
Offers mechanical breakdown insurance
Above-average J.D. Power customer satisfaction rating in New York
Cons
Negative BBB reviews
No rideshare or new-car replacement coverage available
Below-average J.D. Power rating for claims satisfaction
State Farm: Best for customer service
| User Reviews | 4.0 |
|---|---|
| IQ Score The Insurify Quality (IQ) Score uses more than 15 criteria to objectively rate insurance companies on a one-to-ten scale. The Insurify editorial team researches insurer data to determine the final scores. | 9.3 /10 |
| Liability Only Liability-only insurance, sometimes called minimum-coverage insurance, pays for bodily injury and property damage to others in an accident the policyholder causes. It does not pay for the insured’s own damages. | $53/mo |
| Full Coverage Full-coverage car insurance generally includes liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage, and may include other optional coverages such as uninsured motorist coverage. Collision covers a policyholder’s repair or replacement costs in case of an accident. Comprehensive covers damages caused by non-accident events. The average quote displayed here reflects policies with the following coverage limits: $50,000 bodily injury liability per person; $100,000 bodily injury liability per accident; $50,00 property damage liability per accident; $1,000 collision deductible; and a $1,000 comprehensive deductible. | $107/mo |
4.0
Best choiceBased on 18,351 verified driver reviews and ratings
State Farm's score | Industry average | |
|---|---|---|
| Coverage options | 4.1 | 3.2 |
| Customer service | 4.3 | 3.6 |
| Discounts | 3.9 | 2.9 |
| Policy transparency | 3.9 | 3.1 |
| Value | 3.7 | 2.9 |
How drivers feel about State Farm
Customers appreciate the insurer’s excellent customer service and personal attention but dislike the high prices and frequent rate increases. They also express frustration with the claims process.
Based on analysis of verified reviews collected by Insurify
Best For
Showing recent national reviewsSee all 7,594 State Farm reviews
Verified Review
Reviewed in Florida on May 31, 2026
I have been with State Farm for many, many years. I have checked all of the other companies that advertise that they will save me hundreds of dollars per year, and none of them have been able to do so.
Verified Review
Reviewed in Tennessee on May 31, 2026
I'm sick of the constant increases! My insurance goes up every renewal, with no accidents, no claims, and no tickets. It's frustrating. I've been with SF for over 7 years, and I'm looking for something better. I'm tired of being a good driver and being rewarded with higher premiums. It's ridiculous.
Verified Review
Reviewed in Louisiana on May 31, 2026
Friendly and very helpful.
JD Power
J.D. Power data measures overall customer satisfaction and claims satisfaction based on a 1,000-point scale.
657
NAIC Index
Average amount of customer complaints relative to competitors on a 0-5 scale. A lower score represents fewer complaints.
0.84
A.M. Best
A.M. Best analyzes an insurer’s financials, operating performance, business profile, and other factors to generate an opinion-based rating of a company’s financial and credit strength. Ratings range from A++ (exceptional) to D (poor).
A++
Why we picked this company
Driving can be overwhelming for new drivers, no matter where you live in New York. That’s why you may want to work with an insurance company that’s there when you need it. State Farm is a great option, with high marks from J.D. Power in claims and customer satisfaction. Additionally, it has a lower-than-average number of customer complaints with the National Association of Insurance Commissioners.
Pros
Rideshare coverage available
Good student, driver training, and student away at school discounts available
Above-average J.D. Power ratings for claims and customer satisfaction
Cons
Negative BBB reviews
No accident or gap coverage available
Fewer discounts than the competitors
Who’s considered a new driver in New York?
You’re considered a new driver in New York if you have little to no driving history. This mostly includes teens and newcomers who just got their U.S. driver’s license. If this is your situation, you may notice a steep price in your insurance quotes.
The high price tag doesn’t mean you can skip out on insurance. In New York, you must carry the minimum required coverage every time you operate a vehicle, even if you just have a learner’s permit.
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Cheapest car insurance for new drivers in New York
Insurance companies view new drivers, specifically teens, as high-risk drivers.[2] People in this category pose an increased risk of getting into a car accident and filing a claim. If you’re fresh to being on the road, consider buying full-coverage car insurance.
A full-coverage insurance policy provides more protection than a liability-only policy. Specifically, it can help cover the costs of vehicle repairs and replacement if you experience a car crash, regardless of fault. It can also help pay for vehicle damages due to theft and vandalism.
It’s common for new drivers to pay higher premiums. If you’re a parent, you can add your child to your policy for a multi-policy discount on your overall insurance costs. This is usually cheaper than having your child buy a policy on their own.
The table below shows the average cost of car insurance for teen drivers in New York.
The below national rates are estimated rates current as of: Sunday, May 31 at 5:00 PM PDT.
Insurance Company  | Average Quote: Liability Only | Average Quote: Full Coverage | IQ Score The Insurify Quality (IQ) Score uses more than 15 criteria to objectively rate insurance companies on a one-to-ten scale. The Insurify editorial team researches insurer data to determine the final scores. |
|---|---|---|---|
| Erie | $119 | $192 | $8 |
| USAA | $123 | $199 | $9 |
| Travelers | $165 | $267 | $9 |
| State Farm | $177 | $290 | $9 |
| GEICO | $180 | $294 | $9 |
| Nationwide | $190 | $310 | $9 |
| Allstate | $192 | $310 | $9 |
| Progressive | $297 | $515 | $9 |
| CSAA | $366 | $444 | $9 |
| Chubb | $368 | $600 | $7 |
| Bristol West | $447 | $693 | $7 |
Disclaimer: Table data sourced from real-time quotes from Insurify's 500+ partner insurance providers and quote estimates from Quadrant Information Services. Actual quotes may vary based on the policy buyer's unique driver profile.
How much car insurance should new drivers in New York buy?
All drivers in New York must carry the minimum car insurance coverage the state requires, which includes:[3]
Personal injury protection (PIP): New York is a no-fault state, meaning you must have medical protection for yourself and your passengers while on the road. PIP insurance can help pay for medical bills and lost wages for you and your passengers after an accident, regardless of fault. It also covers pedestrians hit by your car.
Bodily injury liability: If you cause an accident, your bodily injury liability insurance must cover at least $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident toward the injured parties’ medical bills. This excludes injuries that result in death.
Property damage liability: You must purchase a minimum of $10,000 in property damage liability per accident in damages you cause to other people’s property, such as a vehicle, fence, or light pole.
Uninsured motorist coverage: UM insurance covers up to $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident for you and your passengers’ medical expenses if an uninsured person causes an accident. It also applies in hit-and-run incidents.
Insurance experts recommend buying more than the minimum coverage to protect yourself from the cost of high repair bills, medical expenses, and lawsuits. Additional coverages to consider include comprehensive, collision, emergency roadside assistance, and rental reimbursement.
Car insurance discounts for new drivers in New York
Discounts are an effective way to lower your car insurance costs. The more you qualify for, the better your rates will be. Here are some discounts you may find as a new driver:
Good student
If you have good grades, your insurance company may apply this discount to your policy.
Multi-policy
If you purchase multiple insurance policies from the same company, such as auto and home insurance, you can score this discount.
Multi-car
If you insure multiple cars on one policy, your insurer may reward you with a discount.
Student away from home
If you’re a student living away at college with your car back at home, your company may provide discounted rates.
Defensive driver course
Your insurance company may offer a discount for completing an approved defensive driving or driver’s education program.
Good driver
Staying claims-free for a period of time can earn you a discount on your policy.
Score the Best Car Insurance Rates for Your Driving Profile
Liability quotes for new drivers in New York start at $119/mo.
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How to get cheap car insurance as a new driver in New York
New drivers tend to pay much more for insurance than seasoned drivers. The good news is that you don’t have to settle for an expensive premium. You can earn better insurance rates with the following tips:
Shop around. Compare quotes from at least three insurance companies that offer the coverage you need to find the best price.
Lower your deductible. Choosing a higher deductible can lead to lower monthly rates. Just be sure you can afford it if you need to file a claim.
Practice good driving. Speeding tickets, DUIs, and accidents can result in costlier premiums, even if you don’t file a claim. Maintaining a clean record can help keep your premiums low.
Car insurance for new drivers in New York FAQs
Finding car insurance as a first-time driver can feel overwhelming, especially with the hefty price tag. The following FAQs provide additional information on buying car insurance as a new driver in New York.
How much is car insurance for a new driver in New York?
Car insurance for a new driver in New York costs an average of $285 per month. But your actual costs will differ based on your location, age, and other factors.
Do you need car insurance before registering a car in New York?
Yes. You must have the minimum insurance to register a vehicle in New York. Driving without insurance can result in the suspension of your registration and license.[4]
Do you need car insurance for a teen with a learner’s permit in New York?
Yes. Teens with a learner’s permit need to carry the minimum car insurance in New York as long as they operate a vehicle.
Which type of car insurance is best for new drivers in New York?
The best type of car insurance for new drivers in New York depends on your needs. In general, Progressive provides the best of both affordability and comprehensive coverage. State Farm is best known for its quality of customer service, while GEICO offers the most opportunities to save.
Sources
Methodology
Insurify data scientists analyzed more than 190 million quotes served to car insurance applicants in Insurify’s proprietary database to calculate the premium averages displayed on this page. These premiums are real quotes that come directly from Insurify’s 500+ partner insurance companies in all 50 states and Washington, D.C. Quote averages represent the median price for a quote across the given coverage level, driver subset, and geographic area.
Unless otherwise specified, quoted rates reflect the average cost for drivers between 20 and 70 years old with a clean driving record and average or better credit (a credit score of 600 or higher).
Liability-only premium averages correspond to policies with the following coverage limits:
- Bodily injury limits between state-minimum rates and $50,000 per person, $100,000 per accident
- Property damage limits between $10,000 and $50,000
- No additional coverage
- Comprehensive coverage with a $1,000 deductible
- Collision coverage with a $1,000 deductible
Quotes for Allstate, Farmers, GEICO, State Farm, and USAA are estimates based on Quadrant Information Services’ database of auto insurance rates.
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Alani AsisFreelance Personal Finance and Insurance Writer
4-plus years of insurance writing
Bylines in top personal finance publications
Featured in
Sara GetmanAssociate Editor
John LeachLicensed P&C Agent, Chief Copy Editor
Licensed property and casualty insurance agent
10+ years editing experience
NPN: 20461358
Featured in