The average cost of car insurance for New York teens is $284 per month, compared to the overall state average of $198.
Erie is the cheapest insurer for teen drivers in New York. The insurer’s liability rate averages $117 per month.
New York’s Graduated Driver License (GDL) program limits when and how teens can drive.
Cheapest car insurance for teens in New York
Liability-only coverage for teens in New York costs an average of $220 per month, according to Insurify data. Full-coverage, which usually includes collision and comprehensive coverage, averages $381 per month.
These rates reflect individual policies. It’s typically more cost-effective to add a teen driver to an existing family policy than to buy a separate policy for them. Insurify data shows that adding a teen to a family policy in New York costs an average of $95 less per month than buying an individual teen policy.
The table below shows average monthly car insurance quotes for teen drivers in New York.
Insurance Company | Average Quote: Full Coverage | Average Quote: Liability Only |
|---|---|---|
| Erie | $191 | $117 |
| USAA | $200 | $123 |
| Travelers | $268 | $164 |
| State Farm | $289 | $177 |
| GEICO | $295 | $179 |
| Nationwide | $309 | $190 |
| Allstate | $311 | $191 |
| CSAA | $445 | $365 |
| Progressive | $504 | $299 |
| Chubb | $600 | $367 |
| Bristol West | $696 | $446 |
Find Cheap Car Insurance for New York Teens
Compare quotes from multiple insurers, starting at an average of $117 per month
Best car insurance companies for teens in New York
We picked the following insurers as the best companies for teens in New York based on affordability, Insurify Quality (IQ) Scores, coverage options, ratings and reviews, and available discounts.
Erie: Best for low rates for teens in New York
| User Reviews | 4.4 |
|---|---|
| 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. | 8.4 /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. | $71/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. | $116/mo |
Erie Insurance's score | Industry average | |
|---|---|---|
| Coverage options | 4.2 | 3.2 |
| Customer service | 3.6 | 3.6 |
| Discounts | 3.8 | 2.9 |
| Policy transparency | 4.0 | 3.1 |
| Value | 3.7 | 2.9 |
Customers appreciate the insurer’s excellent customer service and quick claim handling but are dissatisfied with the unexpected and unexplained rate increases. Some also found the policy details hard to understand.
Erie has some of the lowest rates for teens in New York. The company also offers unique add-ons, like auto glass repair and personal item coverage.
Low rates for New York teens
Offers unique optional coverages
A+ Better Business Bureau (BBB) rating
Low Trustpilot rating
YourTurn telematics program not available in New York
Recently downgraded financial strength rating
State Farm: Best for discounts for teens in New York
| User Reviews | 4.1 |
|---|---|
| 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. | $101/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. | $165/mo |
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 |
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.
State Farm offers many car insurance discounts for teen drivers in New York. The insurer has savings for good students and students attending school away from home. State Farm also offers the Steer Clear program, which can lower rates for completing training exercises and logging driving hours.
Competitive rates in New York
Multiple student discounts available
Steer Clear safe driver program available
Must work with State Farm insurance agent
Steer Clear requires sharing driving data
No BBB rating
Travelers: Best for optional coverages for teens in New York
| User Reviews | 4.6 |
|---|---|
| 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. | 8.5 /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. | $87/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 |
Travelers's score | Industry average | |
|---|---|---|
| Coverage options | 4.6 | 3.2 |
| Customer service | 4.6 | 3.6 |
| Discounts | 4.3 | 2.9 |
| Policy transparency | 4.6 | 3.1 |
| Value | 4.3 | 2.9 |
Customers appreciate the insurer’s communicative customer service and efficient claims process. But they’re dissatisfied with the consistent and sometimes significant price increases, even for those with clean driving records.
Travelers has robust coverage options for teenage drivers in New York. The company offers accident forgiveness, roadside assistance, new car replacement, and gap insurance. These coverages can be very helpful for teens on your policy. Travelers also has affordable rates and multiple discounts for young drivers.
Accident forgiveness available
Affordable rates in New York
Several discounts for young drivers
Poor Trustpilot rating
Some discounts not available in New York
Below-average J.D. Power claims satisfaction rating
Best car insurance discounts for NY teens
Insurance companies typically consider teens to be high-risk drivers. Teens have less driving experience and higher accident rates, which translates to higher premiums.
But you can look for teen driver discounts to make coverage more affordable. Discounts vary by insurer, but some common ones include:
Defensive driving course: Through New York’s Point and Insurance Reduction Program, young drivers who complete a defensive driving course can save 10% on premiums for three years.[1]
Student away at school: If your teen attends school more than 100 miles away and doesn’t take a car with them, you may qualify for a student away at school discount.
Safe driving: Insurance companies often encourage safe driving through telematics programs. Teens in New York who avoid distracted driving, maintain a clean driving record, and practice safe driving habits may qualify for savings.
Bundling: Many insurers offer discounts when you bundle your auto and homeowners insurance.
Why is car insurance so expensive for teen drivers in New York?
Car insurance for teens in New York is typically more expensive than for other age groups. Younger drivers have less experience and riskier habits, like distracted driving and speeding. New drivers also have the highest accident rate. In fact, car crashes are a leading cause of death for 16- and 17-year-old teen drivers in New York state.[2]
Though young drivers aged 16–24 make up only about 12% of licensed drivers, they account for 20% of crashes, according to the New York Department of Motor Vehicles.[3] Additional factors that may influence car insurance rates for teens in New York include:
Population density: More drivers in an area usually means a higher risk of accidents, which increases insurance rates.
Minimum insurance requirements: New York requires drivers to have personal injury protection (PIP), and that extra coverage can push up rates.
Insurance fraud: Staged accidents and frivolous lawsuits can drive up car insurance rates for everyone.[4]
New York car insurance requirements for teen drivers
New York requires drivers, including teens, to have minimum liability insurance of 25/50/10.[5] The state also requires drivers to have uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage. And because New York is a no-fault state, you also need personal injury protection (PIP).
The table below shows the required car insurance coverages and amounts in New York.
Coverage Type | Minimum Amount | Required or Optional? |
|---|---|---|
| Bodily injury liability | $25,000 per person / $50,000 per accident | Required |
| Bodily injury liability resulting in death | $50,000 per person / $100,000 per accident | Required |
| Property damage liability | $10,000 per accident | Required |
| Personal injury protection | $50,000 per person | Required |
| Uninsured motorist coverage | $25,000 per person / $50,000 per accident | Required |
New York has a graduated driver’s license program for younger drivers.[6] Teens in New York can get a learner’s permit at 16, but they must have someone 21 or older with a valid license supervise them when they drive. After passing their permit test, teens can apply for a junior license.
Teens can apply for a full license at 17 if they complete a driver education course. Otherwise, they have to wait until they turn 18.
Consequences for teens driving without insurance in New York
Teens caught driving without auto insurance in New York face serious consequences, including fines of up to $1,500, driver’s license suspension, and vehicle impoundment. Any lapse in coverage can also lead to additional fees and reinstatement penalties.[7]
New York has a zero-tolerance law for teens younger than 21 caught driving under the influence. First-time offenders face $225 in fees and a six-month license suspension.[8]
How to get cheaper car insurance for teen drivers in New York
Car insurance for teens in New York can be expensive. But you have a few ways to lower your teen driver’s insurance premiums.
Check for discounts
Teens in New York may be eligible for good student discounts if they maintain at least a B average. Students who attend school more than 100 miles away and keep their car at home may qualify for a student away at school discount. Many insurers offer telematics programs that can lower your teen’s rates if they practice safe driving habits.
Complete an approved defensive driving course
Young drivers who complete an approved defensive driving course can qualify for a 10% discount for up to three years. Some insurers offer even higher discounts for completing a course.
Choose a safe car
The type of vehicle your teen drives affects your car insurance costs. Cars with advanced safety features often qualify for discounts and lower premiums. You’ll also pay less for coverage if you buy a car that isn’t a common theft target.
Compare quotes
Comparing quotes from several insurance companies in New York can help you find the best price for your coverage. You can easily check whether local options like NYCM Insurance or national insurers like GEICO or Allstate offer the lowest prices.
Compare Car Insurance Quotes
Find the best price for the coverage you need in New York
Should your teen be on your policy or buy their own?
It’s typically cheaper to add a teen driver to an existing family policy than to purchase a separate policy for them. New York teens pay an average of $381 per month for full-coverage car insurance, but adding them to a family policy costs only $286. That’s a difference of $95 per month.
Teens younger than 18 typically can’t buy their own auto insurance policy without a guardian’s approval.
The table below shows how average rates differ between family and individual teen full-coverage policies in New York.
Policy Type | Average Monthly Cost | Average Yearly Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Teen on family policy | $286 | $3,432 |
| Teen on own policy | $381 | $4,576 |
| Cost difference | $95 | $1,144 |
In some situations, you may need to buy a separate policy for your teen. If they’re older than 18, don’t live at home, or have their vehicle registered in their name, you’ll likely need to buy them their own auto policy.
Cheap car insurance for teen drivers in New York FAQs
For more information on how to get cheap car insurance for teens in New York, check out these answers to some common questions.
How much is car insurance in New York for new drivers?
The average monthly cost of car insurance for new teen drivers in New York is $284. Liability-only coverage costs an average of $349 per month, and full coverage averages $381. Factors like driving history, coverage options, and location affect your car insurance premiums.
What car insurance discounts are available in New York for young drivers?
Young drivers may qualify for various car insurance discounts in New York. Many insurers offer discounts for maintaining good grades, practicing safe driving habits, or completing a driver training course. If your teen attends school more than 100 miles away and keeps their vehicle at home, you may qualify for a student away discount.
How much is car insurance for a 16-year-old driver in New York?
Car insurance for teens in New York costs an average of $284 per month, according to Insurify data. Teens in New York typically pay more for auto insurance because they have limited driving experience and a higher accident risk.
What affects car insurance rates in New York for new drivers?
Many factors affect car insurance rates for new drivers in New York, including age, ZIP code, and vehicle type. New York’s population density and minimum insurance requirements also influence rates.
Do you have to add your teen driver to your car insurance policy in New York?
It depends. You typically don’t have to add your teen driver to your car insurance policy in New York. But some insurers require you to add all licensed drivers in your household to your auto policy. If your teen doesn’t live at home or owns their own vehicle, they’ll need their own policy.
Sources
- New York Department of Motor Vehicles. "Point and Insurance Reduction Program (PIRP)."
- New York Department of Health. "Get the Facts About Sixteen and Seventeen Year-Old Drivers in New York State."
- New York Department of Motor Vehicles. "Information for Parents."
- Governor Kathy Hochul. "Money in Your Pockets: Governor Hochul Highlights Proposals to Bring Down Costs of Vehicle Insurance Rates and Tackle Fraudulent Claims."
- New York Department of Financial Services. "How much auto insurance must I carry?."
- New York Department of Motor Vehicles. "The Graduated License Law and Restrictions for Drivers Under 18."
- New York Department of Motor Vehicles. "Insurance Lapses."
- New York Department of Motor Vehicles. "Penalties for Alcohol or Drug-Related Violations."
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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