Cheap Car Insurance Options for College Students

Car insurance rates can be high for college students. Teenage drivers and those in their early twenties are viewed as risky drivers by most insurance companies. Usually statistics based on driving records show that young drivers tend to be rash and have a high incidence of accidents, citations and traffic violations.

Nevertheless, it is possible to get cheap car insurance for students. Here are some tips:

• Maintain a good driving record. There is no alternative to this rule. Accidents and violations will bump up your premiums no matter how experienced or old you are.

• A student who drives occasionally can be added to their parents' auto policy as an occasional driver, without affecting the total premium. Insurers consider that the risk from an occasional driver is minimal.

• Low average annual mileage implies low premiums. If you live near your school, it means your drive is short and you have less exposure to risk.

• A high GPA may get you a discount.

• Many students use old cars. In this situation, it is important to evaluate the worth of the vehicle as compared to insurance premium. If the car is worth less than what it would cost to repair it, you should not buy collision and comprehensive coverage. Just stick with liability insurance. This can considerably reduce your total premium.

• Affiliation with certain motor clubs like AAA or credit unions could also get you a discount.

• Cars with features like anti-theft devices, anti-theft brakes, automatic seat belts, etc. will automatically qualify for a cheap car insurance rate.

As a student you may begin with no driving history and your premiums may be high. But every time you renew your policy, your insurer will re-evaluate your premiums by factoring in new data from your driving record. If you are a safe driver, you should see your car insurance rate drop within 18-24 months.